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10 Stunning Places in Jodhpur That Make Your Trip Complete
How would it feel to be greeted by the first ray of sun in the morning, not through your window at your home but in a land where the sun seems to ‘rise’? Jodhpur is famously called the Sun City, as the sun is visible here first every morning. Jodhpur was founded in the year 1459 by Rao Jodha and the city earned its name after him. The second largest city in the state of Rajasthan is divided into old city and new city. The city is famous for its magnificent forts and palaces. Given below are the top 10 places to visit in Jodhpur that need a definite place in your itinerary.
1. Mehrangarh Fort
Visitor Information
- Famous for: History, Architecture, Photography, Adventure.
- Tickets: 60 INR for Indians and 400 INR for foreigners. A trip to museum will cost 70 INR for Indians, 600 INR for foreigners plus 200 INR and 100 INR for photography and videography respectively. Discounted prices for senior citizens and students.
- Opening Timings: Open on all days (9am to 5pm).
- Duration: 2-3 hours.
About Mehrangarh Fort
Beyond question, Mehrangarh Fort tops the list of ‘must visit’ places in Jodhpur. It is one among the largest Indian forts. This invincible fort stands magnificently 400 feet above the city. Rao Jodha constructed the fort in 1459 AD. Though the attempt to construct the fort was started in 1459, the fort had seen many centuries before it was completed. Hence, you could find that the style of architecture represents various periods. The grandeur in architecture is awe-inspiring. The Dark Knight Rises was also shot here.
Things to Do around Mehrangarh Fort
- Visit the Ranisar and Padmasar lakes.
- Explore the fort’s museum.
- Go ziplining (Flying Fox Tour).
- Take a guided tour around the fort.
- Visit the Chokelao Bagh.
2. Umaid Bhawan Palace
Visitor Information
- Famous for: History, Architecture, Photography.
- Tickets: Entry to museum is 30 INR for Indians, 10 INR for children (5-11 yrs) and 100 INR for foreigners.
- Opening Timings: Open on all days (10am to 4:30pm).
- Duration: 1-2 hours.
About Umaid Bhawan Palace
The construction of Umaid Bhawan Palace was started in the year 1929 and it was completed in 1943. The palace is situated on the highest point in the city. The 347-roomed massive palace is named one of the largest private residences in the world. The palace boasts of a combination of Indian and European style of architecture. A part of the palace still serves as a residence to the former royal family, while other two parts of the palace are converted into Taj Palace Hotel and museum. The museum is open to the public, while the hotel is only accessible to the guests and the entry to the residence is prohibited.
Things to Do around Umaid Bhawan Palace
- Observe a stunning vintage car collection.
- View the clock collection throughout different periods of history.
- Trek your way to the Palace.
3. Jaswant Thada
Visitor Information
- Famous for: History, Architecture, Photography.
- Tickets: 15 INR for Indians and 30 INR for foreigners. Photography and videography charge are 25 INR and 50 INR respectively.
- Opening Timings: Open on all weekdays (9am to 5pm). Closed on all gazette holidays.
- Duration: 2-3 hours.
About Jaswant Thada
Jaswant Thada was built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh, the Second in the year 1899. This is close to Mehrangarh Fort. The tranquility of the marble construction is enchanting. The carvings are intricate. Inside Jaswant Thada, you will find the portraits of the Rathore rulers. The grounds of Jaswant Thada consist of a stunning multilevel garden, intricately carved gazebos and a pond.
Things to Do at Jaswant Thada
- Relax in the nearby lakes and gardens.
- Enjoy a stunning view of Umaid Palace from here.
- Explore the stunning architecture.
4. Mandore Gardens
Visitor Information
- Famous for: History, Architecture, Gardens, Photography.
- Tickets: No fee.
- Opening Timings: Open on all days.
- Duration: 1-2 hour.
About Mandore Gardens
Mandore, belonging to the 6th century, was Marwar’s capital before Jodhpur was established. Mandore Gardens here attract tourists in great numbers. The Mandore Gardens also house a government museum, a ‘Hall of Heroes’ and a temple to 33 crore Gods. Various artifacts and statues found in the area are housed at the museum. The architectural splendor of the bygone era is clearly evident here.
Things to Do around Mandore
- Visit the nearby museum.
- Have a picnic here.
- Go street shopping nearby.
- Visit the Mandore Fort which is in ruins.
5. Kailana Lake
Visitor Information
- Famous for: Nature, Photography.
- Tickets: No tickets for visiting.
- Opening Timings: Open on all days (sunrise to sunset).
- Duration: 2-2.5 hours.
About Kailana Lake
Kailana Lake is located on west of the city. This is yet another artificial lake, which was constructed in the year 1872 by Pratap Singh. This is one amongst the most frequented lakes in Rajasthan. It is a birdwatchers’ paradise. You could sail on a boat if you aim to add some breathtaking photographs to your collection. The view of sunset would be stunning.
Things to Do at Kailana Lake
- Go Boat Riding
- Have a Picnic
- Birdwatching (seasonal).
6. Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park
- Famous for: Nature, Photography, Ecotourism.
- Tickets: For adults 100 INR and entry free for school Students. A Naturalist for a guided walks costs 200 INR.
- Opening Timings: April to September (7am to 6:30pm) & October to March (8am to 5:30pm).
- Duration: 2-2.5 hours.
About Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park
The aim behind the formation of Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park in the year 2006 was to restore the rocky area near the fort. Once preliminary steps were taken to restore the land, more than 80 native plant species from the famous Thar Desert were grown. The 200 acres of park is located at the foot of the impregnable Mehrangarh Fort. The place reflects the hard work and dedication of the ecologists who spared no efforts to make the place green.
Things to Do at Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park
- Start your trip here with the The Visitors Centre.
- Explore the park by using the walking trails.
- Visit the outdoor museum.
- Check out the native plant nursery.
- Relax in cafes or shop for souvenirs.
7. Clock Tower
Visitor Information
- Famous for: Shopping, History, Architecture.
- Tickets: No fee.
- Opening Timings: Open on all days from 10am to 9pm.
- Duration: 2-3 hours.
About Clock Tower
Clock Tower is a famous landmark in the Old City. It was constructed by Maharaja Sardar Singh during his tenure between 1880 and 1911. The clock tower offers a good view of the fort. Sardar Market is adjacent to Clock Tower where a wide range of products is sold. You can find handicrafts, saris, spices, vegetables and a lot more. There are over 7000 shops and you can have a great shopping experience here.
Things to Do near Clock Tower
- Shop at the Sardar Bazar.
- Enjoy Rajasthani cuisines.
8. Chamunda Mata Temple
Visitor Information
- Famous for: Pilgrimage.
- Tickets: No fee.
- Opening Timings: Open on all days from 5am to 12 pm & 4 pm to 9 pm.
- Duration: 0.5 hour.
About Chamunda Mata Temple
Located inside Mehrangarh Fort, Chamunda Mata temple was built by Rao Jodha who was also the founder of Jodhpur. Built for protection against a curse given by an old sage, this temple is much revered by the people of the Rajasthan and houses the chief deity of Rajputs.
Things to Do at Chamunda Mata temple
- Attend the evening aarti.
- Get a stunning view of blue city and Umaid Bhavan.
9. Balsamand Lake
- Famous for: Nature, Photography.
- Tickets: No tickets for visiting.
- Opening Timings: Open on all days (sunrise to sunset).
- Duration: 2-2.5 hours.
About Balsamand Lake
Balsamand Lake is an artificial lake that was constructed by Balak Rao Parihar in 1159 AD. The lush greenery around the lake has mango groves, papaya groves and groves of guava, plum and pomegranate. Balsamand Lake Palace was intended to serve as summer resort for the royal family of Jodhpur. The lawns and gardens with birds and peacocks finding their homes here, the place is exquisite. The palace reflects Rajputana style of architecture. The palace turned heritage hotel was built of red sandstone.
Things to Do at Balsamand Lake
- Visit the nearby gardens to view an artificial waterfall.
- Picnic
- Boat riding.
10. Masuria Hills Garden
- Famous for: Photography,Gardens.
- Tickets: No tickets for visiting.
- Opening Timings: Open on all days ( after sunrise till sunset).
- Duration: 1-2.5 hours.
About Masuria Hills Garden
Explore the stunning views of Jodhpur at Masuria Hills Garden. Situated on atop Masuria hill, which lies amidst the main city, this place it the ideal way to take a break from the hustle bustle of the main city. Go here if you want some quiet time alone and for some stunning sunset views.
Things to Do at Masuria Hills Garden
- Catch some great city views.
- Have a picnic with your family.
- Eat at the nearby restaurant.
Other attractions include Ghantaghar (clock tower), Toor Ji Ki Baori, Chokelao Bagh, Mahamandir and the Bishnoi Village Safari.
Popular Places to Visit near Jodhpur
Jodhpur is a land of many marvels but a visit to some of its nearby places are not to be missed. Away from a less than a day’s journey, the following places are sure to make your visit to Jodhpur even more special and picture worthy.
1. Pali
- Distance from Jodhpur: 1 hr 29 min (76.3 km).
The quaint city of Pali is home to many ancient temples, beautiful stepwells and gardens but perhaps it is well known for Om Banna Shrine. This shrine is dedicated to a deity in form of a motorcycle and has an interesting legend behind it. It receives many tourists passing through Pali as a visit here is believed to make your journey safe.
2. Osian
- Distance from Jodhpur: 1 hr 34 min (67.3 km).
Also known as “Khajuraho of Rajasthan” for its temples, Osian is also an oasis in the sweltering Thar Desert. This ancient town is said to be centuries old and used to be an important trade center till it was attacked by the armies of Muhammad of Ghor in 1195. There are many attractions around like the architecturally magnificent Osiyan Temple and a visit here is highly recommended for everyone visiting Jodhpur.
3. Khimsar
- Distance from Jodhpur: 1 hr 52 min (98.3 km).
A small village located enroute to Bikaner from Jodhpur, Khimsar is home to the majestic Khimsar Fort and the rustic Khimsar Dunes Village. Visitors can enjoy the architecture marvel of the fort or go for a desert safari on the sand dunes.
4. Phalodi
- Distance from Jodhpur: 2 hr 45 min (142.1 km).
Known as the ‘Salt City’ due to the presence of salt related industries, Phalodi is famous for Lal Niwas, a haveli made completely of red sandstone and its interiors which provide a glimpse of the richness of its past residents. Other attractions include the Parasnath Jain temple, Phalodi Fort and Khichan bird sanctuary.
5. Ranakpur
- Distance from Jodhpur: 3 hr (162.5 km).
A visit to Ranakpur is recommended for the famous Ranakpur Jain temple here. This famous Jain temple is a stunning example of architecture due to its sheer size and beautiful carvings all over the temple. It is dedicated to Tirthankara Adinatha and therefore is also an important pilgrimage for Jains. There is also a Sun Temple nearby.
Famously called the ‘Sun City’ and the ‘Blue City’, tourist places in Jodhpur brings back the days of the past. If you are passionate about things of the past, you will love the city that is rich in palaces, forts and museums. You could indulge yourself in a great purchasing spree as the city offers unique handicrafts, antiques, miniature elephants, silver jewelry and many more. Also, checkout other attractions in Rajasthan by visiting this link.
Source https://www.transindiatravels.com/rajasthan/jodhpur/tourist-places-to-visit-in-jodhpur
