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HISTORY

Jodhpur, once the capital of the former princely state of Marwar, is now the second largest city of Rajasthan. Flanked on its western side by the Mehrangarh Fort, and on the eastern side by the stately sandstone Palace of Umaid Bhawan, the monuments, temples and gardens of Jodhpur depict a multifaceted grandeur.

Founded in 1459 AD by the Suryavanshi Rao Jodha, Jodhpur gradually grew around the towering Mehrangarh Fort, built as a stronghold on the advice of a sage. Alongwith Bikaner and Jaisalmer, Jodhpur too is situated on the ancient silk route that linked Central Asia and Northern India with the seaports of Gujarat. As a result it became a major trading centre in the 16th century. Reminiscent of the bygone years is the fact that Jodhpur is still the leading centre for cattle, camels, wood, salt and agricultural crops. The beauty and imagination that has gone into the making of this monumental city proclaim the life,springs of creative genius that appear incongruent with the harshness of this land and its climate.
Growing royally over the rocky and craggy land is one of Rajasthans finest forts, the Mehrangarh Fort. It looks down gently over the attractive city of Jodhpur. Famous for its wonderful forts and palaces, Jodhpur is the second largest city of Rajasthan and a main tourist attraction in the country. The city is located at the edge of the Thar Desert with Jaisalmer on its west, Barmar, Jalore and Pali on its south, Bikaner on its north, and Nagaur on the eastern side.

Jodhpur Rajasthan was founded by the Rajput chief Rao Jodha in 1459. The city was the previous capital of the Marwar state. A courageous lookout in the desert, on the eastern edge of the Thar Desert has the difference of neither being a part of the Thar Desert nor out of it. At best it is an entrance to the wonderland of sand dunes and shrubs, rocky land and prickly trees. The home of the Rathroes, the grand princely state of Rajasthan. They occupied Marwar, land of the sand after the fall of Delhi and Kannauj. In 1459 AD, Rao Jodha, chief of the Rathore family of Rajputs, who claimed descent from Rama, the classic here of the Ramayana, laid the base of Jodhpur. A high stone wall protects the well fortified city. The wall is almost 10km in length and has eight gates opposite different directions.

Within, stands an imposing fort on a low range of sandstone hills, about 125m above the surrounding plains. Invincible. And dauntless in its league with time. The city lies at the foot of the hills. The clear distinction between the old and the new city is visible from the ramparts of the fort. On the other side of the Jodhpur city, facing the fort is the Umaid Bhawan Palace. The irregular angle of the sunset lends the desert scenery a wonder inspiring glow and the people, a politeness undaunted.

The old city of Jodhpur is fenced by a 10 km long wall with eight Gates foremost out of it. The new city is outside the walled city. Rao Jodha, a chief of the Rathore family, founded the city Jodhpur in 1459 and it is named after him.

Mehrangarh Fort

In the turbulent political times of 1459 AD. Rao Jodha was advised by a saint to establish an impregnable head,quarter and so, the Mehrangarh Fort was built on a steep hill. This formidable hill top fort is among the best in India with exquisitely latticed windows in residential apartments within. Carved panels and porches, elaborately adorned windows and walls of Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Sileh Khana, seem to make the medieval splendour come alive. A collection of musical instruments, palanquins, royal costumes, furniture and the cannons on the forts ramparts are preserved.

PRIME ATTRACTIONS

Forts

Mehrangarh Fort , Situated on a steep hill, Mehrangarh fort is one of the largest forts in India. The beauty and the grandeur of numerous palaces in the fort narrates a saga of hard sandstones yielding to the chisels of skilled Jodhpuri sculptures.

Palaces

Umaid Bhawan Palace , The only palace built in the 20th century under the famine relief programme, has now been converted into a hotel with some parts being retained as a museum.

Jaswant Thada , The 19th century royal cenotaph is built in white marble, in commemoration of Maharaja Jaswant Singh. Some rare portraits of the rulers of Jodhpur are also displayed here.

Museums

Government Museum , This museum has a rich collection of weapons, textiles, miniature portraits, local crafts and images of Jain Tirthankars. It is situated in the middle of the Umaid public gardens.

Others

Clock Tower and Sadar Market , In the old city, the clock tower is a prominent landmark. But the main attraction is the Sadar Market. The market has kept alive the old haat bazaar culture.

Palace On Wheels

Ever wondered what luxury in the royal times was all about. Welcome to Palace On Wheels, a luxury train that carries with it an ambience of the Rajputana era and an exciting fairytale journey, which takes the visitor to the imperial cities of Rajasthan every single day. The coaches also carry out an image of the Rajput states with beautiful interiors. Last but not the least the Royal Treat for the passengers on board include saloons, bar lounges and libraries in every coach as well as restaurant and organized shopping facilities.

EXCURSIONS

Cities

Mandore Towards the north of Jodhpur is the ancient capital of Marwar, Mandore. It is just 8 kms from the city. Main attractions of the place are the Hall of Heroes with sixteen huge figures carved out of a single rock, the shrine of 330 million Gods and the royal cenotaphs. But one can not miss the caves in crags and the sprawling gardens, which are now shelter places for monkeys and peacocks. Greenery of the place makes Mandore, in true sense, an oasis. Temple
Ossian 65,km from Jodhpur, lies ruins of an ancient city called Ossian. This city is famous for Brahmanical and Jain temples, which belong to the 8th and 11th century. Surya or Sun temple and the Sachiya temples are famous for their beauty. The shikhar of Sachiya temple is clustered by two rows of turrets, an ambulatory and a large assembly hall with an elaborate ceiling.

Tribes

Guda Bishnoi The villages are inhabited by the Bishnoi tribe who are staunch believers in the sanctity of plant and animal life. Villages are marked by Khejri trees and deers, which thrive there. 25 kms from Jodhpur.

Lakes And Palaces

Balsamand Lake and Palace This picturesque artificial lake is 7 kms from the main city. Summer palaces along the embankment and a bird sanctuary has made it a picnic spot. Sardar Samand Lake and Palace , Rajasthani village life and vibrant cultural colours come alive as you drive along the 55 kms stretch. The monotony of the drive is broken by Chinkaras and Black Bucks who frisk pass the road.

Destination Wedding in Jodhpur

Much like many of us harbour secret fantasies of a flourishing Bollywood career, we also secretly desire to get married amidst royal splendour. Master craftsman Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Ashutosh Gowariker have painted several visual canvases for us featuring royal weddings in movies like Jodha Akhbar, Bajirao and Devdas. Havent you caught yourself day dreaming of replacing Aishwarya, Deepika or Priyanka, swirling around in heavier than thou ghagras in the corridors of grand palaces? You can stop dreaming over a royal themed destination and actually plan one for yourself. Whos got a crore and more to spend on a wedding you ask? What if we told you this royal splendour is possible on a budget. If you plan to spend 20 30 lakhs on a city wedding, consider hauling your clan to the desert hinterlands of Jaisalmer and Jodhpur and knock on the socks of your wedding guests. Weve got some amazing alternatives for you that are guaranteed to blow your mind. In our DestinationWeddingSeries this week, we present to you the cost of destination wedding packages in The Blue City of India Jodhpur and The Golden City of India Jaisalmer that are less than 30 lakhs. Yes, you read that right. We dont believe in fooling around when its the wedding budget in discussion. And to stand true to our words, we give the complete cost breakdown that will make decision making a breeze. The cost of destination weddings as we know can shoot through the sky depending on the kind of elaborate Jodha,Akbar style set,ups, shamianas, elephant polo games and the works you would want to have at your wedding. However, even a simple wedding with some regional elements to host an authentic big fat Indian wedding at these jewel destinations of Rajasthan can have the same grandeur and exuberance you witness in a multi Crore affair.

Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

Built between 1928 and 1943, this grand yellow sandstone palace spreads over 26 acres of gardens, making it one of the largest private residences in the world. The golden,yellow sandstone Umaid Bhawan Palace is a monument to Jodhpurs gallantry and romance. Guests get a taste of what it was like to live like kings. From rooms once occupied by the Maharaja. From regal pastimes like polo or croquet. From magnificent views of the palace gardens and the spectacular Mehrangarh Fort. From unique themed dinners that flaunt all the pomp,and,splendour of the desert kingdom. Umaid Bhawan Palace overlooks the desert capital of Jodhpur, a 15,minute drive from Jodhpur Airport and 2.4 km from Jodhpur Railway Station. Attractions like Clock Tower Market, Mehrangarh Fort and Jaswant Thada monument are within 9 km away.

Distance from Airport , 4 KM
Travel time , 10 Min
Category , 5 Star Deluxe
Total rooms , 64
Deluxe , 22
Suites , 42
Swimming pool , 2
Restaurant , 3
Lounge and Bar , 1
Parking , 100

Event Venues

Ali Akbar , 100 Pax
Fountain Courtyard , 30 Pax
Central Dome , 75 Pax
Palace Lawn , 4000 Pax
Poolside Lawn , 2050 Pax
Sarguman Lawn , 1500 Pax
Sarguman Court , 550 Pax
Roka Hall , 150 Pax

WelcomHotel, Jodhpur

On the edge of the Thar Desert, set against the sombre and arid landscape of Rajasthan is located the Welcomhotel Jodhpur. As a tribute to the city of Jodhpur, laden with history, culture and monuments that enliven the royal era of the princely state, the hotel endeavors to bring about an element of grandeur through food, music, colour and an ethnic melange of unique experiences. Inspired by the Thar Desert and spread over 10 acres, WelcomHotel Jodhpur is a 15,min drive away from Jodhpur Airport and a 20,min drive from Jodhpur Railway Station. Popular attractions include Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum 10 km while Mehrangarh Fort is a 30minute drive from the property.

Distance from Airport , 9 KM
Travel time , 16 Min
Category , 5 Star Deluxe
Total rooms , 98
Deluxe , 96
Suites , 2
Swimming pool , 1
Restaurant , 3
Lounge and Bar , 1
Parking , 100

Event Venues

Akbar Hall , 450 Pax
Jodha Hall , 350 Pax
Mandore Garden 1 , 1000 Pax
Mandore Garden 2 , 1000 Pax

Indana Palace, Jodhpur

Travel to the lap of luxury in the city of Jodhpur at Indana Palace, a 5,Star hotel located on the Benayakiya Road. The hotel is about 3 km from the Jodhpur airport and 6 km from the Railway Station. There are several tourist destinations in Jodhpur within the range of 10,15 km from the hotelsome of the main attractions are Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum 4 km, Mehrangarh Fort 10 km, Jaswant Thada 9 km and Mandore Gardens 14 km.

Distance from Airport , 3 KM
Travel time , 10 Min
Category , 5 Star Deluxe
Total rooms , 88
Deluxe , 80
Suites , 8
Swimming pool , 1
Restaurant , 2
Lounge and Bar , 1
Parking , 100

Event Venues

Banquet Hall , 2000 Pax
Lawn , 2500 Pax
Conference Hall , 120 Pax

Ranbanka Palace, Jodhpur

Ranbanka, literally meaning the master of battles, was an honor conferred upon the courageous Rajput clan of Jodhpur , the Rathores. A part of the erstwhile palace was commissioned to be converted into a heritage hotel, aptly named Ranbanka Palace, offering guests the opportunity to enjoy one of Rajasthans foremost royal experiences. With magnificent views of the Blue city, Ranbanka Palace retains and preserves the old world charm and glory of a bygone era. Its central location allows easy access to key leisure and business addresses in the city.

Distance from Airport , 4 KM
Travel time , 9 Min
Category , 3 Star Deluxe
Total rooms , 90
Deluxe , 86
Suites , 4
Swimming pool , 1
Restaurant , 4
Lounge and Bar , 1
Parking , 100

Event Venues

Open Courtyard , 1200 Pax
Poolside Lawn , 450 Pax
Rajput Hall , 150 Pax

Taj Hari Mahal, Jodhpur

Jodhpur is a popular tourist destination with palaces, forts and temples, set against the landscape of the Thar Desert. Taj Hari Mahal, Jodhpur, offers Rajasthans legendary hospitality along with comfortable opulence. Located just 5 kilometres from the Jodhpur airport, the resort is also close to the citys vibrant bazaars

Distance from Airport , 4 KM
Travel time , 8 Min
Category , 5 Star Deluxe
Total rooms , 96
Deluxe , 93
Suites , 3
Swimming pool , 1
Restaurant , 2
Lounge and Bar , 1
Parking , 100

Event Venues

Amar Hall , 800 Pax
Amrit Mahal , 55 Pax
Mehrangarh Hall , 180 Pax
Mehrangarh Terrace , 1200 Pax
Board Room 1 and 2 , 16 Pax

Ajit Bhawan, Jodhpur

The Ajit Bhawan Palace is the residence for the family of the younger brother of the late Maharaja of Jodhpur, Umed Singh Sahib. Built in 1923 for Maharaj Ajit Singh, it exudes the true essence of an oasis with magical powers capable of making the worries of the world simply melt away. The Palace Resort has the foundation of a legacy that is part of the history behind the city of Jodhpur, it is about achieving a balance between history while enriching your experience through comfort and unique original style. Must have a joy ride on vintage car when you are in Jodhpur

Distance from Airport , 4 KM
Travel time , 7 Min
Category , 4 Star Deluxe
Total rooms , 75
Deluxe , 53
Suites , 22
Swimming pool , 1
Restaurant , 3
Lounge and Bar , 1
Parking , 100

Event Venues

Zanana Garden , 250 Pax
Hall , 150 Pax

Fort Chanwa, Jodhpur

Fort Chanwa Luni is Located in the village of Chanwa. Below is the brief description about the history attached along with this Historical Venue. Maharaja Jaswant Singh II Ruler of Jodhpur, Marwar from 1876,1895 A.D is remembered as a benevolent Monarch who steered the administration and economy of the state away from chaos and instability to a period of sustained development, security and justice for all. Amongst the prominent civil servants in this Rulers coterie of administrators, was a young Charan by the name of KavirajMuraridanji. He was an astute politician and a farsighted administrator. In 1894 KavirajMuraridanji received in Jagir the little known hamlet of Chanwa. There he builds an exquisite little fortified haveli, today known as Heritage Hotel Fort Chanwa. In 1941, however the village of Chanwa became Khalsa belonging to the State as, ironically Muraridanji fell victim to a law introduced by him in the best interest of Marwar, whereby feudal estates lacking a male successor and without a recognized adoption in the life time of the deceased Jagirdar were automatically resumed by the state, after his death. In 1948 Chanwa was granted Jagir to Maharaja Dalip Singh, the youngest son of Maharaja Umaid Singh.

Distance from Airport , 38 KM
Travel time , 47 Min
Category , 3 Star Deluxe
Total rooms , 64
Deluxe , 54
Suites , 9
Swimming pool , 1
Restaurant , 1
Lounge and Bar , 1
Parking , 100

Event Venues

Main Courtyard , 450 Pax
Backside Courtyard , 450 Pax
Banquet Hall , 150 Pax
Lawn , 400 Pax

Maru Garh, Jodhpur

MARUGARH JODHPUR ETHNIC AND LUXURY RESORT IN JODHPUR Come to Marugarh Hotel in Jodhpur for visiting the beautiful Sun City in a Royal way. We offer a classic mix of luxurious comfort, reasonable pricing and beautiful nature. This Jodhpur resort has a quiet, peaceful and posh locality free from air and noise pollution. The view from our hotel rooms or balconies are simply a must see, with vast lush green landscape, cool breeze and swimming pool. The scenic beauty of Marugarh is the best, you will be unable to find it in any other resorts or hotels at Jodhpur.

Distance from Airport , 14 KM
Travel time , 28 Min
Category , 3 Star Deluxe
Total rooms , 51
Deluxe , 50
Suites , 1
Swimming pool , 1
Restaurant , 2
Lounge and Bar , 1
Parking , 100

Event Venues

Rajwat Hall , 900 Pax
Shahi Darbar , 150 Pax
Venture Hall , 150 Pax
Lawn , 3300 Pax

Raas, Jodhpur

Inside the Walled City of Jodhpur and under the imposing stare of Mehrangarh Fort, sits RAAS. The site was formerly the home of the aristocratic Thakur family, and the original 18th,century haveli has been carefully renovated to produce the four old buildings of the hotel. The three new buildings are modern and contemporary in their use of space and light, and yet are grounded in tradition. Jodhpurs red sandstone unites the new with the old, with modern designs in its latticing and carving adding a fresh dimension to the regions age,old stone carving industry. This seamless harmony between the old and the new, the modern and the traditional, extends to all aspects of RAAS. Almost all of the rooms have magnificent views of Mehrangarh Fort from both the private terraces and from the cast iron bathtubs, and those that dont have their own private gardens and views over the old haveli and landscaped gardens of RAAS.

Distance from Airport , 8 KM
Travel time , 19 Min
Category , 5 Star Deluxe
Total rooms , 39
Deluxe , 32
Suites , 7
Swimming pool , 1
Restaurant , 3
Lounge and Bar , 1
Parking , 50

Event Venues

Darikhana , 150 Pax
Chamber Of Carpetsl , 150 Pax
Bardari Lawn , 250 Pax

India Destination

A page form the India Destination Digital Book, click here to access