Jodhpur Tourist Attractions
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Jodhpur is dominated by the huge fort, Meherangarh and surrounded by a 16th C wall. Jodhpur is known as the Blue City due to the numerous indigo colored houses that were traditionally only for Brahmins but non-Brahmins soon joined in. Painting the houses blue deflects the heat, which in turn keeps the interior cooler.Jodhpur was founded in 1459 and is now the second largest city in Rajasthan. A long wall with eight gates fences in the old city with the clock tower as the old city landmark. West of the clock tower leads tourists into the commercial center of the old city where bazaars can be found, which sell vegetables, sweets, spices, and handicrafts. The new city is outside the walled city.
Mehrangarh
Mehrangarh is one of the most impressive fortified palaces in Rajasthan. Built in 1459 on a towering outcrop, Mehrangarh is an amazing construction feat. The closer you get, the height of the walls becomes more evident.There are seven gates including Jaya Pol built in 1806 by Maharaja Man Singh after his victory over Jaipur and Bikaner. Fateh Pol was constructed to commemorate the defeat of the Mughals when Maharaja Ajit Singh was the ruler. The second gate still contains scars from cannon attacks.Inside the fort is a network of courtyards and palaces including a museum that houses a splendid collection of items from the Maharajas.The palaces within Mehrangarh are beautifully decorated and have names that evoke beauty such as Moti (Pearl), Sukh (Pleasure) and Phool (Flower).
Surroundings
Mandore
Mandore is a popular tourist attraction for the attractive gardens and rock terraces. This ancient capital, prior to the founding of Jodhpur, contains grand red sandstone cenotaphs for the Marwar rulers. These stupas and domes are contained within the gardens.The 18th C Hall of Heroes in Mandore features Hindu deities and local heroes carved into a rock wall and then covered with plaster and vibrantly painted.
