Rajasthan, The Land of the Rajputs, has always been on top destination due to its forts,palaces, havelis, the desert landscape,culture and the bright, colorful sights and scenes. Jodhpur, the Heart of the Marwar Region, is a city which is the Gateway of Thar, home to the imposing giant fort of Mehrangarh, mesmerizes the newcomer with its dazzling grandeur of royal mansions, ancient forts, thriving bazaars and colors everywhere.
Umaid Bhavan Palace on the Chittar Hill is the residence of the King of Jodhpur, Maharaja Gaj Singh now divided into three parts housing the Royal Residence, Taj Hotel and Museum respectively.
Umaid Bhavan Palace, Official Residence, King of Jodhpur State
It is mostly beyond access fro a common person as it houses a luxury hotel as well as the Residence of the Royal Family.It has a museum with many artifacts and many vintage cars for display all of which were used or connected somehow with the Royals.
Close Up Shot of the Dome, Umaid Bhavan Palace
Just beside the Jaswant Thada is a small lake which reflects the color of blue sky in the backdrop of arid rugged landscape.
Turquoise Lake beside Jaswant Thada
Jaswant Thada is a cenotaph located near the imposing Mehrangarh Fort built by Maharaja Sardar Singh in memory of his father Jaswant Singh II in 1899.
Jaswant Thada
The views of Mehrangarh, probably the largest fort of India is a jaw dropping sight due to the sheer overwhelming size and height of the Fort rising above the rocky hill.
Mehrangarh Fort, The Grand Citadel of The Sun
The fort has several gates, bastions, levels and security perimeters.It is one of the best preserved fort of India and has best in class tourist infrastructure. It has even a lift for visitors to the first level otherwise which can be a tough climb by the steep gradient for most.
Inside of The Mehrangarh Fort, 1st Bastion
The first level contains a big courtyard which offers birds eye view of the Blue City of Jodhpur.
Canons Guarding the Fort
Jodhpur, The Blue City
Another View
The multistoried living mansions and havelis now houses exquisite display of arms, art items, palanquins , paintaings and other memoirs of the past.
The Royal Mansion, Mehrangarh Fort
Art Collection, Mehrangarh Fort Museum
Mandore Gardens is a park developed around few ancient temples which predates the Mehrangarh Fort. These temples were built by Pratihara Kings who ruled this region from 6th century AD till establishment of Mehrangarh by Rao Jodha in 1459.
Ancient Temples,Mandore Gardens
More Temples, Mandore Gardens
