Rising perpendicular and impregnable from a hill which is 125 metres above Jodhpur’s skyline is the Mehrangarh Fort. This historic fort is one of the most famous in India and is packed with history and legends. Mehrangarh Fort still bears the imprints of cannonball attacks courtesy the armies of Jaipur on its second gate. Chiselled and sturdy, the fort is known for its exquisite latticed windows, carved panels, intricately decorated windows and walls of Moti Mahal.
Umaid Bhawan Palace was built by Maharaja Umaid Singh in 1929 to counter a famine which had hit the state at the time. It was also known as the Chittar Palace while being constructed thanks to the use of stones drawn from the Chittar hill. The palace was designed by HV Lanchester, a renowned British architect, and was completed in 16 years. Built with sandstone and marble, the architecture of the palace is described as a blend of lndo-Saracenic,
This milky white memorial built towards the end of the 19th century as a tribute to the leader Jaswant Singh is a huge tourist attraction. Jaswant Singh, who ruled Jodhpur, invested well in his state. He made attempts to bring down the level of crime, subdue dacoits, built railways and broadly worked on raising the economy of Marwar. Jaswant Thada is managed and looked after by the Mehrangarh Museum Trust (MMT) and is open to public.
Ghanta Ghar, also known as the clock tower, is situated in one of the busiest areas of Jodhpur. The tower was built by Maharaja Sardar singh from whom the adjacent Sardar market takes its name. The Sadar Market is quite popular among tourists for spices, traditional clothes and fancy jewelry . Clock Tower is a well- known land mark in Jodhpur . The Tower serves as the Start/ end point of heritage walk through the blue city.
The Mandaleshwar Mahadev was built by Mandal Nath in AD 923. It is believed to be one of the oldest shrines in the city. The walls of the temple have some beautiful paintings of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.Throughout the year, the Mandaleshwar Mahadev Mandir attracts devotees and tourists alike, drawn to its beauty and significance. The annual Mandalnath Mela, held in March or April, adds a festive touch to the temple grounds, further enhancing the vibrant atmosphere of this sacred place.
Towards the north of Jodhpur city is the ancient capital of Marwar, Mandore. This area is of major historical importance and you will find the dewals or cenotaphs of Jodhpur’s former rulers. Unlike the original umbrella-shaped cenotaphs that are typical patterns of Rajasthan architecture, these are built along the lines of Hindu temples. This enclosure also houses a museum ,a temple ,an art gallery. A light and sound show operated in this garden during the evening which introduces the spectators to the rich cultural history.