Set at the edge of the Thar desert, the imperial city of Jodhpur echoes with tales of antiquity in the emptiness of the desert.
Once the capital of the Marwar state , it was founded in 1459 A.D. by Rao Jodha-chief of the Rathore clan of Rajputs who claimed to be descendants of Rama - the epic hero of the Ramayana. The massive 15th century A.D. Mehrangarh Fort looms on the top of a rocky hill, soaring 125 Mts. Above the plains. The city is encompassed by a high wall -10 km long with 8 gates and innumerable bastions. A major trade centre of the 16th century A.D. the fortress-city of Jodhpur is now the second largest city of Rajasthan. While the graceful palaces , forts and temples strewn throughout the city bring alive the historic grandeur, exquisite handicrafts , folk dances music and the brightly attired people lend a romantic aura to the city. The jumble of wide winding streets are flanked with pavement stalls.
The
lifestyle in jodhpur is unusually fascinating with folks wearing
lovely multihued costumes,artistically designed. Women folk wear
wide gathered skirts and a hip length jacket, with three quarter
length sleeves , covering the front and back. The colorful turbans
worn by the men folk add more color to the city . It was from here
that the popularity worn baggy - tight , horse riding trousers- ‘
Jodhpurs’ took their name. Shopping in Jodhpur bazaars is a
heady experience with a colorful display of the rich collection of
exquisite handicrafts. The tie and dye fabric, embroidered ‘jutis’
or slippers in suede, cancel skin, velvet and more color to the
city.it was form here that the popularly worn baggy-tight horse
riding trousers,-" Jodhpurs" ,took their name. Countless
festivities celebrate the rich past and culture of the princely
state. The Marwar Festival held annually is one such spectacular
bonanza.
Tourist Attractions in JodhpurHow to Reach
- By Air
The Jodhpur Airport is 5 km from the city
center. Regular flight services connect the city with other
major cities in and around Rajasthan. There are daily flights to
Delhi, Mumbai, Udaipur and Jaipur.
- By Train
Jodhpur is well connected by railway
lines. Trains to Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata are easily
available. The 'Palace on Wheels' also visits this city of royal
splendor.
- By Road
Another convenient mode of transportation
to Jodhpur is by road. The main highway between Jodhpur and
Jaisalmer is via Agoli and Pokaran. The highway is well
connected with Agra, Ahmedabad, Ajmer, Delhi, Jaipur, Jaisalmer
and Udaipur by bus.
