Set on the edge of steamy Thar Desert, Jodhpur evokes fond memories of the erstwhile princely era of Rajasthan. This typical desert city stands guard on the country’s western front and is famous for its magnificent forts and palaces. It is also the second largest city of Rajasthan and an important center for cattle, camels, salt and agricultural crops.

Initially, Jodhpur used to be the capital of the Marwar State of Rajasthan. Later in 1459, the Rajput chief Rao Jodha founded the Jodhpur City. It is surrounded by a 10-km-long wall interrupted by eight doors leading to different places of the city. There are about 100 towers most of which are surrounded by defensive battlements inside the city complex.

Jodhpur is also home to a large number of art and craft creations, shopping areas and cultural festivals. The prime attraction of the city is the 15 th century fortress-‘the Mehrangarh Fort’. It houses some of the most intricately designed palaces, like the Moti Mahal (Palace of Pearl), Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors) etc.

Another important attraction of the city is the ‘Jaswant Thada’, a cluster if royal cenotaphs in white marbles. It lies just a few distances away from the fort. Jodhpur is also famous for its colorful bazaars with a large collection of die and tie fabrics, exotic souvenirs and a range of decorative and other useful items.