Set at the edge of the Thar Desert, the imperial city of Jodhpur echoes with tales of antiquity in the emptiness of the desert. A valiant sentinel in the desert, on the eastern fringe of the Thar Desert has the distinction of neither being a part of the Thar Desert nor out of it. Once the capital of the Marwar state , it was founded in 1459 A.D. by Rao Jodha-chief of the Rathore clan of Rajputs who claimed to be descendants of Rama - the epic hero of the Ramayana. Also known as the "Sun City", Jodhpur has quite a history attached to it. The Rathores, after being driven away from Kanauj by the Afghans, settled in the area around Pali city, near Jodhpur. Thereafter an alliance was arranged between Rathore Siahaji and the sister of a local prince. This helped the Rathores in establishing and strengthening themselves in this region. Their might grew by the day and they even drove out the Pratiharas of Mandore, 9 km from Jodhpur. As time passed, the Rathores felt the need to set up a more safe and secure capital. This need led to the foundation of Mehrangarh fort and thus, the city of Jodhpur in Rajasthan, India. Under the rule of maharaja Umed Singh, the city further prospered and developed into a fine modern city.  A major trade center of 16th century, Jodhpur has grown to become the second largest city of the state.

The old city of Jodhpur is surrounded by a thick stone wall. The wall has six huge gates called Nagauri gate, Merati gate, Sojati gate, Jalori gate, Siwanchi gate and Chand pol. The city can be roughly divided into four parts-Ratanada, which primarily houses old buildings and government offices; sardarpur, which is mostly residential; old city that is the market area and shastri nagar, which is the new Jodhpur with modern houses, etc. New buildings blend well with the ancient Rajputana architecture as Jodhpur maintains a unique charm of old and new. From its ramparts, one can see where the old city ends and the new one begins. It is fascinating wandering around the old parts of the city, browsing through the antique shops or experiencing the ambience of this chaotic, bustling, sun-struck city of red sand stone. Jodhpur is also referred as the Blue city, due to the indigo tinge of the whitewashed houses around the Mehrangarh Fort. The blue houses were originally for Brahmins but non-Brahmins soon joined in, as the color was said to deflect the heat and keep mosquitoes away. Magnificent Mehrangarh fort stands a top a 125 meter high hill dominating the city's skyline. It is one of the most impressive and formidable fort of the country. The massive 15th century A.D. Mehrangarh Fort looms on the top of a rocky hill, soaring 125 Mts. Above the plains. The city is encompassed by a high wall -10 km long with 8 gates and innumerable bastions. The Jaswant Thada, the memorial of Maharaja Jaswant Singh 11. Built in 1899 in white marble near the fort is noteworthy for its superb architecture. The Umaid Bhawan Palace, is the only palace built in 20th century, and is a splendid example of indi-colonal Style of 30's. A portion of the palace has been converted into a luxury hotel. Other palaces of interest are the Girdikot and Sardar market, Mandore Gardens Kailana Lake etc. The royal crest is highlighted on the valance alongwith the mininature paintings in the lounge which is typical of the Jodhpur School of art.

While the graceful palaces, forts and temples strewn throughout the city bring alive the historic grandeur, exquisite handicrafts, folk dances music and the brightly attired people lend a romantic aura to the city. The jumbles of wide winding streets are flanked with pavement stalls. The lifestyle in Jodhpur is unusually fascinating with folks wearing lovely multihued costumes, artistically designed. Women folk wear wide gathered skirts and a hip length jacket, with three quarter length sleeves, covering the front and back. The colorful turbans worn by the men folk add more color to the city. The quintessence of Jodhpur was its valour and equestrian skill. Polo has been the traditional sport of the Jodhpur nobility since medieval times. It was from here that the popularity worn baggy - tight, horse riding trousers- ‘Jodhpurs’ took their name. Shopping in Jodhpur bazaars is a heady experience with a colorful display of the rich collection of exquisite handicrafts. The tie and dye fabric, embroidered ‘jutis’ or slippers in suede, camel skin, velvet and more color to the city. Countless festivities celebrate the rich past and culture of the princely state. The Marwar Festival held annually is one such spectacular bonanza.

Jodhpur lies near the geographic center of Rajasthan state, which makes it a convenient base for travel in a region much frequented by tourists. At best it is a doorway to the wonderland of sand dunes and shrubs, rocky terrain and thorny trees. The graceful palaces, forts and temples strewn throughout the city bring alive the historic grandeur and the peculiar slant of the sunset lends the desert landscape an awe-inspiring glow and the people, a chivalry undaunted.

History of Jodhpur in Rajasthan, India

Jodhpur, the home of the Rathroes, is the awesome princely state of Rajasthan whose history revolves around the Rathore Clan. Rao Jodha, the chief of the Rathore clan, is credited with the origin of Jodhpur in India. He founded Jodhpur in 1459. The city is named after him only. It was previously known as Marwar. The following paragraphs will tell you more about the past of Jodhpur, Rajasthan.

The Rathores were driven out of their original homeland, Kaunaj, by Afghans. They fled to Pali, near to the present day Jodhpur. Rathore Siahaji married the sister of a local prince. This helped the Rathores to establish and strengthen themselves in this region. In some time they ousted the Pratiharas of Mandore, just 9 km of today's Jodhpur. Initially, Mandore served as their capital but by 1459 as time passed, the Rathores felt the need to set up a more safe and secure capital. This need led to the foundation of Mehrangarh fort and thus, the Sun City of Jodhpur in Rajasthan, India by Rao Jodha.

Strife-torn from the start, Jodhpur's wealth, (got by lucrative trade with Gujarat) invited Mughal envy. After several attempts to take over Jodhpur, Emperor Akbar entered into a marriage alliance with Udai Singh's sister in 1561 thus ensuring the friendliest terms between the Mughals and Rathods. The capital of Jodhpur flourished into a great centre of arts and culture with Mughal patronage. The Rathores enjoyed good relations with all the Mughals, except Aurangzeb. Maharaja Jaswant Singh even supported Shahjahan in his struggle for succession. Aurangzeb briefly sequesterated the state (1679) on the pretext of a minority, but the rightful ruler was restored to the throne after Aurangzeb died in 1707. The Mughal Empire declined gradually after 1707, but the Jodhpur court was beset by intrigue; rather than benefitting from circumstances, Marwar descended into strife and invited the intervention of the Marathas, who soon supplanted the mughals as overlords of the region. This however did not make for stability or peace; 50 years of ruinous wars and humiliating treaties dissipated the wealth of the state, which sought and gratefully entered into 'subsidiary alliance' with the British in 1818.

Under the reign of Maharaja Umed Singh, Jodhpur grew into a fine modern city. During the British Raj, the state of Jodhpur was the largest in Rajputana, by land area. Jodhpur prospered under the British Raj. Its merchants, the Marwaris, flourished endlessly. They came to occupy a dominant position in trade throughout India. In 1947, India became independent and the state merged into the union of India. Jodhpur became the second city of Rajasthan.

Economy of Jodhpur in Rajasthan, India
 
The Handicrafts industry has in recent years eclipsed all other industries in the city. By some estimates, the furniture export segment is a $200 million industry, directly or indirectly employing as many as 200,000 people. Other items manufactured include textiles, metal utensils, bicycles, ink and sporting goods. A flourishing cottage industry exists for the manufacture of such items as glass bangles, cutlery, carpets and marble products. After handicrafts, tourism is the second largest industry of Jodhpur.

Crops grown in the district include wheat and the famous Mathania red chillies. Gypsum and salt are mined. The city serves as an important marketplace for wool and agricultural products. The Indian Air Force, Indian Army and Border Security Force maintain training centers at Jodhpur.

Cuisine of Jodhpur in Rajasthan, India

Jodhpur has a number of restaurants and eating-places. You can find every cuisine in Jodhpur, ranging from Indian to Chinese to Continental to Mughlai cuisine. While there, do not forget to try the famous Kachouri (a snack eaten with chutney). Those with a sweet tooth should try laddoos, which simply melt in your mouth. And not to forget, do have a tall glass of buttermilk or 'lassi'.

A number of Indian delicacies have also originated in Jodhpur. Following are some of the famous Jodhpur cuisines. Read on to know "What to eat in Jodhpur, Rajasthan":
Makhaniya Lassi
Mawa Kachori
Pyaaz Kachori
Hot & Spicy Mirchibada (A preparation made with potato, onion, chili and gram flour)
Panchkuta.
Jodhpur is also famous for its sweets. It is like a tradition in Jodhpur to first have something sweet and then proceed on to the main course. The sweet hospitality of Jodhpur is known as Mithi Manuhar. Maybe this is the reason for the sweet tone of the people of Jodhpur.

Some of the popular sweets of Jodhpur are:
Mave ki Kachori
Besan ki Chaaki
Maakhan Vade

Culture of Jodhpur in Rajasthan, India

Regarding the Jodhpur culture, the Jodhpuri people are amongst the most hospitable people of India. They have a typical Marwari accent. The lifestyle in Jodhpur, India is quite fascinating. The folks there wear nice and lovely multihued costumes. The women folk wear wide gathered skirts and a hip length jacket, with three quarter length sleeves, covering the front and back. Women are also love to wear jewelry on many parts of their body. They particularly like to wear specific type of jewelry like the ones worn on the feet, head, forehead, ear, nose, neck, arms, wrist, fingers, waist, etc. Another one of the unique features of the culture of Jodhpur, Rajasthan is the colorful turbans worn by men. The popular tight, horse riding trousers, 'Jodhpurs', took their name from this city only. The main languages spoken here are Hindi, Marwari and Rajasthani.

The graceful palaces, forts and temples strewn throughout the city bring alive the historic grandeur of this city. Lending a romantic aura to Jodhpur, are its exquisite handicrafts, folk dances, folk music and the brightly attired people. The desert people are quite affable. With their sweet smiles and warm hospitality, they win the hearts of the tourists. The famous Marwar festival brings out the festive spirits of the people of this city. The bazaars of Jodhpur have a range of items from tie & dye textiles, embroidered leather shoes, lacquerware, antiques, carpets and puppets to the exquisite Rajasthani textiles, clay figurines, miniature camels and elephants, marble inlay work and classic silver jewellery.

Fairs & Festivals of Jodhpur in Rajasthan in India

Marwar Festival of Jodhpur in Rajasthan, India

Rajasthan, the land of royalty, is a state at its colourful best all the year round with an amazing fusion of history, religion, music, dance, arts & crafts, desert sand, wildlife & birdlife, lakes, palaces and friendly people. Fairs in Rajasthan are mythological in nature, relating to Gods and Goddesses. They are even celebrated to commemorate the brave deeds of medieval heroes. The Marwar Festival, held in memory of the heroes of Rajasthan, is one such example. The festival is celebrated in the Hindu month of Ashwin (September - October) in the Sun City of Jodhpur, the former capital of Marwar Province during the full moon of Sharad Poornima. The most popular Jodhpur festival is the Jodhpur Marwar Festival, held annually in October in Jodhpur, attempts to showcase the art and culture of the Jodhpur region.

The two day long Marwar festival of Jodhpur provides a glimpse of the days of yore, of battles and valiant heroes who still live on in the songs sung by the folk artists in the praise of their valour and victories. The massive Mehangarh fort and the impresive Umaid Bhawan Palace which are symbols of ingenuity, might and valour of the Rajputs, make Jodhpur an ideal location for the festival. 

Jodhpur in the state of Rajasthan in India is a city with countless bastions and towers founded by Rao Jodha, chief of the Rathore clan of Rajputs who claimed to be descendants of Rama - the epic hero of Ramayana, in 1485 A.D which speaks of its glorious past. Exploring the city promises a delightful encounter with the unusual lifestyle and culture of the people. A treasure-trove for bargain hunters, the bazaars here stock an array of fabulous art & craft creations and a collection of tie-and-dye fabrics in extremely fine designs... some of the reasons that attract tourist from all around the globe. Originally known as the Maand Festival; this festival features folk music centered on the romantic lifestyle of Rajasthan's rulers. This festival is devoted to the music and dance of the Marwar region and offers a good opportunity to see the folk dancers and singers who assemble here and provide hours of lively entertainment.
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Nagaur Fair of Jodhpur in Rajasthan, India

The Nagaur Fair is well known all over the state of Rajasthan and the special guests of honor at this fair are- Cattle! Yes, Nagaur Fair is has the unique distinction of being the second largest cattle fair in India. The festive ambience during the Nagaur Fair is permeated by the bellows of the cattle that are decorated by their owners and the general buzz that is associated with fairs such as these.

Nagaur Fair is one of the largest eight days cattle fair in the country, held annually during the month of Magh, between late January and early February. Nagaur awakens with the thronging of cattle, horses and camels accompanied by their colourfully turbaned owners. Nagaur is a sea of animals, trading over 70,000 bullocks, horses and about 25,000 camels on display every year. The quaint town of Nagaur, one of the most picturesque of Rajput townships, stirs to life during the Nagaur Fair. Nagaur, a town in Rajasthan is located in between Bikaner and Jodhpur, is mainly noteworthy for the rustic rural charm and colorful life seen on the way. If you are thinking that the Nagaur Fair is just a regular cattle fair, you are mistaken; Shearing sheep, handsome marwari horses to spices all compiled in one fair. The owners of the animals from all over Rajasthan come and camp around the outskirts of Nagaur while they buy and sell animals.

The fair is organized by the Animal Husbandry Department and the Rajasthan Tourism Department also participates in it. Animal Husbandry Department controls the trading of this huge cattle market where as many as 2,00,000 livestock are brought and sold by some 80,000 farmers coming from as far as Punjab, Haryana.

Shearing sheep, handsome marwari horses to spices all compiled in one fair. Attractions include the mirchi bazaar (largest red-chilly market of India), wooden items, iron-crafts and camel leather accessories.

Sports like tug-of-war, camel races, bullock races and cock fights; jugglers; puppeteers, story-tellers; and exciting campfire evenings are held to entertain the tourists. Folk music of the Jodhpur variation echoes the tranquil desert sand. Nagaur is well connected to the major cities by road and rail. Nearest airport is Jodhpur, some 135kms away.
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Makar Sankranti of Jodhpur in Rajasthan, India

The festival is celebrated on the 14th of January every year. This has now become the festival of kite-flying which does not spare the soaring spirits of anyone in Jaipur. The devoted ones, however, take a holy dip in the kund at Galtaji. The traditional sweet associated with it is Phirni, made in abundance by the halwais of Jaipur

Gangaur Fair of Jodhpur in Rajasthan, India

Gangaur is a significant festival of Rajasthan, especially meant for the women. Gangaur festival is widely acclaimed and celebrated throughout the state of Rajasthan. The word Gangaur is derived from two words, 'Gan' and 'Gauri' which are synonyms of 'Siva' and his consort 'Parvati' respectively. Gangaur is celebrated in the honor of Goddess Gauri, who is considered as the symbol of virtue, devotion, fertility and a perfect married woman. Gangaur celebrates the union of the two and is a symbol of conjugal and marital happiness.

Gangaur is celebrated in the month of chaitra (March-April), the first month of the Hindu calendar. This month marks the end of winter and the onset of spring. The festival of Gangaur starts with the subsequent day of Holi and persists for about 2 weeks.

The womenfolk of Rajasthan worship Gauri with all the means of devotion. The married women worship Gauri for the well-being of their husband, while the unmarried girls worship the goddess to get the husband of their choice. This is also an auspicious day for young people to select their life partners. A newly-wedded girl observes a fast for the full course of 18 days of the festival that succeeds her marriage. Even unmarried girls fast and eat only one meal a day. Colourful processions with the town band playing horses and elaborate palanquins make it a fascinating spectacle. This worship which starts form the first day of the chaitra month culminates on the 18th day into Gangaur festival with a great religious fervor. The festival begins with the custom of gathering ashes from the Holi Fire and burying the seeds of barley in it. After it, the seeds are watered everyday awaiting the germination.

The ceremony takes place with the praiseful songs for Isar (Siva) and Gauri. The women apply henna on their hands to celebrate the auspicious festival. They carry painted matkas (water pots) on their heads. They also make images of Gauri and Isar with clay. During the last days of the festival, the celebration reaches to its height. On the final day, lively images of Gauri are taken out in procession escorted by traditionally dressed camels, bullock carts, horses and elephants. Songs are sung about the departure of Gauri to her husband's home.
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Elephant Festival of Jodhpur in Rajasthan, India

This festival is held on the day of Holi, the festival of colours, at the Chaughan stadium. Beautifully decorated and caparisoned elephants assemble to participate in the royal procession. Elephant polo, elephant race,elephant tug-of-war with a few tourist and holi on elephant back are some of the exciting events.

Teej Festival of Jodhpur in Rajasthan, India

Teej Festival is one of the most popular festivals of India. Teej festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion by the women in India. Since Teej fall at the outbreak of the monsoons, it is also popularly known as the 'Sawan Festival'. Teej is usually celebrated in the month of July-August. Festival of Teej is dedicated to the divine couple - Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Though Teej is celebrated at various places in India and abroad, major Teej celebrations take place in the highly cultural city of Jaipur. Here day-long processions and celebrations create a vivid atmosphere.
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Dussehra Festival in Jodhpur in Rajasthan, India

Dussehra is celebrated by staging Ramlila in different parts of the city and cuminating in the ceremonial burning of the giant effigies of Ravan, Kumbhakaran and Meghnath, celebrating Lord Rama's victory over the Demon King, and victory of Good over Evil. A mela is organised at Amer and thousands of devotees visit the templeof Shila Mataji situated there. Special puja is offered by the former Maharaja in the City Palace amidst traditional fanfare. Durga Puja is celebrated in several community pandals for four days by the large Bengali population in the city.

Diwali Festival in Jodhpur in Rajasthan, India

Celebrated every year in October- November, Diwali is perhaps the most popular of all Indian festivals. The origin of this festival can be traced back to the ancient Hindu epic Ramayana, when Lord Rama returned to his kingdom Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. The whole kingdom was lit up with diyas (earthen lamps) to celebrate his return. To date, on Diwali day, houses all over India glow with the twinkle of innumerable divas, candles and electric lights. The night is illuminated with the flaming lights of fireworks, creating kaleidoscopic design against the black canvas of the sky. During the Diwali celebration decoration and lighting is done throughout the walled Pink City, with every market competing with the others to pick-up the best decorated market award. There are special prizes for the best decorated individual buildings as well. Most people prefer walking through the street to enjoy this dazzling extravaganza.

Shopping in Jodhpur in Rajasthan, India

Antiques
Jodhpur is an antique hunter's paradise. Many of these are made-as-old artifacts from Jodhpur and the Shekhawati region. You will found old furniture, chests, cabinets, sculptures, doors, windows, carved lintels, old pictures, memorabilia, and rare, first-edition books. Prices are not high but further bargaining is difficult. Most such shops are located at the foothill of Umaid Bhawan.

Bandhini
At Kapra Bazaar, look out for bandhini and lahariya (hand-dyed) fabrics worn by the locals. Tie-dyed in small motifs or in wave-like strips, on cotton, chiffon or silk, these are available as sarees , Jodhpuri coats, Rajasthani dresses, salwar-kameez sets, yardages used for turbans. At Mehar Collection you will found all types of bandhini in a very suitable prices.

Footwear
If you want to give a royal touch in your dresses Visit Mochi Bazaar in the walled city and Jutti Corner on Station Road for Jodhpuri footwear, or finely embroidered mojris. A pair should cost about Rs 450-500, though those with less embroidery & larger stitches is half that.

Mathaniya's Red Chilli
Jodhpur is suitable for those who are used to of spices food . Mathaniya's Red Chilli. are famous for its redish colour . it is send to many part of this country and outer world too.

Other Markets
Jodhpur is a veritable shopper's paradise. There are so many markets to fulfill your thrust of shopping viz. Tripolia bazaar, Sarafa bazar, Sardarpura Market, Sojati Gate, National Handloom is most popular departmental shop where you will found all type of accessories and cloths situated in Nai Sarak and if you are tired with shopping take Jodhpur speciality- Mrichi bada and some sweets available near this shop. Jodhpur is home to many talented and skilled craftsmen like textile dyers, metal engravers and'die-makers, and probably the last of the tailors of the classic 'Jodhpur' breeches. Specially Jodhpuri suit gives you a royal identity to your dressing.

Location and Transport

Air
Jodhpur is well connected to all the major cities which includes Delhi, Mumbai, Calcutta, Jaipur, Udaipur.
 
Bus
Rajasthan Roadways run very comfortable deluxe & air conditioned buses from Delhi (Bikaner House, Nr. India Gate) to Jodhpur. The roads are very good, and it takes around 8-9 hrs from Jodhpur. You can also come by taxi. The bus stand is right outside the Rai ka Bagh Station.

Train
Jodhpur is on the Broad Gauge and hence connected to all the metro cities of India. There are daily trains from Jaipur, Delhi, Mumbai & Kolkata. Jodhpur has two railway stations, City and Rai ka Bagh both are outside the walled city.

Getting around Jodhpur
In the city you can travel by un-metered auto-rickshaws, buses, cycle-rickshaws or you can also use car cabs and car-taxi. The Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation operates of Jodhpur from 8.30 to 1.00 pm and 2 to 6 pm. The tour starts from the Tourist Bungalow.

Distance of important cities from Jodhpur

Jaipur: 343 Km
Jaisalmer: 295 kms
Mount Abu: 264 kms
Udaipur: 275 kms
Ajmer: 205kms
Agra: 577 kms.
Bikaner: 245kms
Delhi: 602 kms

Facts about Jodhpur in Rajasthan, India

Weather
In summer: 42.2 C (Max) - 27.3 C (Min)
In winter: 27.5 C (Max) - 9.5 C (Min)
Rainy Season: from July to Mid Sept, and very humid (Upton 90%)
Our suggestion: Best time to come: Sep to March 

STD Code: 0291
Population: .77 millions
Area: 75.50 sq km.
Language: Hindi, English & Marwari
Altitude: 230 metres
Clothing: Summer light tropical (cotton) for summer & Light woolen for winter.