Jodhpur is one of the popular cities of the princely state of Rajasthan. The city is located at the fringes of the Thar Desert and was founded by the chief of the Rathore clan named Rao Jodha in the year 1459. The Rathores claimed to be the direct descendants of lord Rama. The kingdom under the rule of the Rathores was known as the 'marwar' or the land of the death. The city has a strong base of defense contingent has it is one of the closest cities located close to the border of Pakistan. The city is also known as the 'blue city' as most of the houses are of the indigo color. The following are some attractive places to see in the Jodhpur city.

Some Attractive Places to See in Jodhpur

Mehrangar Fort - The historic fort bears the testimony of the chivalrous Rajputs. The fort is regarded as one of the exquisite and formidable forts in India. It covers the entire area of a hill of 125 meters high. A winding road leads from the city to the fort. The fort has seven entrance doors. The second door still has the marks of cannon balls that hit during the time of wars. Maharaja Man Singh built the Jayapol in the year 1806 after conquering Jaipur and Bikaner. The victory gate or the Fatehpol was built by the Maharaja Ajit Singh as a testimony of defeating the mighty Mughals.

The fort holds beautiful courtyards and palaces like the Sukh Mahal, Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal and Sheesh Mahal. On the southern part of the fort there is the Chamunda Devi temple.

Jaswant Thada - This structure is built as a memorial of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II made up of white marble. It is close to the Mehrangar fort and was built in the year 1899. The cenotaph is famous for its fine lattice or jali work of marble and wonderful view of the city from its terraces.

Umaid Bhawan Palace & Museum - Since the palace is made up of the local chittar type of sandstone, it is also popularly known as the Chhittar Palace. The building has been decorated with white marble and pink sandstone. It was designed by the president of the British Royal Institute of Architects. This magnificent palace is run by the descendants of the erstwhile rulers. The part of the palace is now turned as luxurious hotel while the remaining part as museum.

There are several attractive places near Jodhpur that are worth for an exciting excursion.