Jodhpur
Overview

The
one-time capital of the Marwar state, Jodhpur occupies a position at the
edge of the expansive Thar Desert. The emptiness of the Thar Desert doesn't
make it any less effective. On the contrary, the desert city reverberates
with fascinating myths and legends of the past. The gigantic Mehrangarh Fort
looming on a rocky hill adds much charms to the place. The fortress city of
Jodhpur also has the eminence of being the second largest city of Rajasthan.
Climate & Best Time
Jodhpur is known to have a hot and humid climate. During summers,
temperature soars up to a maximum of 42 degrees centigrade. Though, nights
can be quite cool; a feature of the typical desert climate. Monsoons, from
July to mid-September increases the humidity to 90%. Winter time is from
October to February. Minimum temperature during this period records 9.5
degree centigrade. Tourists should make a trip here between September and
March.
Places to Visit
Palaces, forts, museums, gardens, lakes and temples, Jodhpur offers to see
a variety of attractions. And if you are willing to move away from the city
just a few kilometres, there are many more to delight in. Some of the most
important are as follows.
» Mehrangarh Fort
When the Rathore Rajputs made up their mind to move their capital from
Mandore to Jodhpur, they founded this fort in the 15th century. Moti Mahal,
Rang Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Jhanki Mahal and Phool Mahal are truly worth
watching.
» Jaswant Thada
It was customary with the rulers to build chattris or cenotaphs to
commemorate the dead. Located close to the fort is the traditional crematory
where you can visit the fabulously built Jaswant Thada, a memorial to
Jaswant Singh II.
» Umaid Bhawan Palace

Also
referred to as the Chittar Palace, this palace was designed by the president
of the British Royal Institutes of Architects. The construction of the
palace took 15 years to complete.
» Balsamand Lakes & Gardens
A picturesque man-made lake, it has on its banks the Balsamand Palace which
was built in 1159 AD. The amalgamation of scenic beauty and antiquity can
well be experienced here.
Stay Options
Being a much travelled destination in Rajasthan, Jodhpur has a number of
hotels ranging from deluxe and heritage to budget categories. Taj Hari Mahal
and Umaid Bhawan Palace are famous five star deluxe hotels in the city.
Preferred options in the heritage category include Hotel Ratan Vilas, Karni
Bhawan, Hotel Balsamand Lake Palace and Roget Garh.
Getting There
Jodhpur Airport keeps itself regularly linked with places like Delhi,
Mumbai, Kolkata, Jaipur and Udaipur. Its broad gauge track is also well
connected and it has frequent trains from Jaipur, Delhi, mumbai and Kolkata.
Tourists can also take deluxe and air-conditioned buses from Delhi to
Jodhpur.