Jodhpur – The land of Marwar or simply the land of Death

Jodhpur is second largest city of Rajasthan in the region of Marwar – the area of Thar Desert. The region was mainly dominated by Rathore Rajputs who are supposed to be descendents of Lord Rama. They are also supposed to have origin from the sun – Suryavanshi or Solar Race, un branch of Kshatriyas – One of the four Varnas (caste) of Hindu Religion.

In the Year 1459, Rao Jodha of Rathore Clan felt requirement of a secure headquarter. So the selected a rocky ridge 9 kms to the south of Mandore – earlier capital of Marwar Region. The new city of Jodhpur , thus came into existence and a mightiest fort of Mehrangarh was constructed, which is one of the largest forts in India. The initiation of the construction was originally started by Rao Jodha in 1459, but most of the work was done by Maharaja Jaswant Singh ( 1638 – 78 ). The magnificent Fort is located at City centre spreading over 5 Kms atop and 125 metre high hill. Its walls, which are up to 36 m high and 21 metres wide protect some most of the historical sites of Rajasthan. There are some beautiful palaces like Motimahal, Phool Mahal , Sheesh Mahal. Sileh Khana and Daulat Khana. There is also a museum which stores beautiful memories of the past in its glass showcases. It is maintained by Mehrangarh Museum trust.

Just a little drive from Mehrangarh , beautiful Cenatoph of Maharaja Jaswant Singh can be seen – Jaswant Thada , constructed in 1899 by white marble on a small lake. The architecture of Jaswant thada shows the spendor and grandeur of Mighty region of Marwar in Rajput period. It is a traditional cremation ground of Jodhpur Rulers. There are some exquisitely carved gazebos and a beautiful garden.

Just below the Hill, there is old city of Jodhpur. The Markets near clock tower gives a beautiful memory of the past to the visitors. Now there are many vendors and shops all around selling different things from vegetables to sweets, tea shops , Namkin snacks shops, different modern shops with Cyber cafes to exchanging currencies. The visit to the city markets give a good impression of Indian life style and cultural aspects.

Other Places of tourist interest:

• Clock tower Market
• Ummed Bhawan palace museum
• Mandore
• Vishnoi villages – Vishnoi is a tribe of people in Marwar region who work for the conservation of nature from centuries.