Jodhpur Holiday

Also known as “Sun City”, Jodhpur is the second largest city of the Indian State of Rajasthan. The city is also known as Marwar and was spawned in 1459 by the Rajput chief Rao Jodha. It is a popular tourist destination that features beautiful palaces, forts, temples and scenic desert landscape. The city once used to be a major trade centre. The entire city has been encompassed by a high wall – 10km long with 8 gates and innumerable bastions. The exquisite handicrafts, folk music, folk dances and the multi hued costumes of the people offers a romantic aura to the city of Jodhpur.

Major Attractions
The numerous attractions in Jodhpur are the real witnesses of ancient glory and grandeur of Jodhpur. Some of noted ones are:

Mehrangarh Fort – The Mehrangarh Fort is a 15th century fort located at the centre of the city. It is said to be one of the largest forts of India founded by Rao Jodha. The Fort houses a number of beautiful palaces in its complex like Moti Mahal, Janaki Mahal, Chandan Mahal, Royal Dubar Takht, Rang Mahal, Sheesh Mahal and Phool Mahal. There is also a museum in the fort complex that holds a wonderful collection of palanquins, elephant seats and miniature paintings.
Umaid Bhawan Palace – This monument is also a major tourist attraction. A part of this palace has been partly transformed in to a luxurious heritage hotel and the other part a museum. The museum houses crystal, glass, chinaware, fancy clocks, few stuffed animals, model planes and an explanation of the palace's development.

Jaswant Thada – The enthralling Jaswant Thada is a cenotaph that was built bu Maharaja Sardar Singh to honour his brave father, Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. The cenotaph is in white marble and is exquisitely designed. Its pavilions, domes and delicate looking pillars catches the attention of every visitor.

Kaylana Lake - This lake was constructed in 1872 by Sir Pratap Singh. It is spread over 84 sq.km. A lot many tourist use this lake as a picnic spot.

Clock Tower and Sardar Market - A prime attraction of the city, is the Clock Tower and the colourful Sardar Market near it. Narrow alleys lead to quaint bazaars selling textiles, antiques, silverware and handicrafts.

Dining
The city of Jodhpur has a number of restaurants that offers a treat to our hungry stomachs. Some of the mouth watering restaurants of Jodhpur are:

• The Mehran Terrace at the fort.
• Cafe Mehran
• Umaid Bhawan Palace Hotel
• On the Rocks
• Priya Hotel

Accommodation
The city of Jodhpur has carved a niche for itself in providing quality services to the tourists. Some of them are:

• Heritage Hotels
• Hotel Ratan Vilas
• Pal Haveli
• Fort Chanwa Luni
• Hotel Ranbanka
• Hotel Karni Bhawan
• Deluxe Hotels
• Taj Hari Mahal
• Umaid Bhawan Palace
• Park Plaza Jodhpur
• Three Star Hotels
• Shree Ram International
• Quality Chandra
• Budget Hotels
• Kalinga Hotel
• Hotel Arun

Shopping
Jodhpur is definitely a shopper's delight. Tourist would find great options for antique shopping here. One can carry back home doorways, lintels, carved balconies, furniture from the shops placed here. Jodhpur is also famous for its tie-dyed fabrics, footwear, silver jewellery, handicrafts, accessories and souvenirs. Check out some of the shopping areas of Jodhpur:

• Chhattar Hill
• Lalji Handicrafts
• Shekhawati Art Emporium
• Rajasthan Art Emporium
• Maharani Art School
• Rama Bazaar

How to Reach
By Air : The city of Jodhpur is well linked by daily flights with Delhi, Mumbai, Udaipur and Jaipur.

By Rail : Jodhpur is finely connected by rail with major cities in north and west India. This royal destination is also covered by one of the luxurious trains of India-'Palace On Wheels'.

By Road : Jodhpur boasts of a good network of roads. The Rajasthan State Transport buses helps the city of Jodhpur to get linked to the major cities and towns of Rajasthan and north India.