It’s a sin to be in Rajasthan and just travel past the former capital of the Kingdom of Marwar, Jodhpur. For in its domain, the mighty forts and palaces, still stand as the epicentre of all that has grown around them over the centuries, silently watching over, unintimidated, across the barren backdrop of the Thar Desert that in itself is a powerful force able to consume one and all. Yet, in all its regal history and the legacy of a present, and by blowing the bugle that emits unavoidable Rajputana vibes, Jodhpur continues to magnetise many a travellers from around the world. Increasing footfalls continue to leave indelible marks of different global identities on the land of Jodhpur, each saying “I too have been here, and mingled with the air of royalty…”
Jodhpur, also known as “Sun City” for literally basking in the sun all year long, and “Blue City”, because of the blue-painted houses thriving around the olympian Mehrangarh Fort, is however, a lot more than the forts, palaces, and desert. Here, the history surpasses the boundaries of the Rajputana clan and meets from Moguls to the British Raj; the fairs and festivals are as vibrant as the land is arid, showcasing the zealous spirit of the locals; and the fusion of Rajputana and Mughal architecture that manifests in the many temples locks an unbreakable spell upon its viewers. Verily, shunning away Jodhpur’s presence would be to forever remain in darkness, unknown of what life light might have introduced you to.
But those who’ve experienced the beauty above have made today, the city of Jodhpur, located about 335 km from the state capital, Jaipur, one among the most favoured tourist destinations, not just in Rajasthan, but in India and the world. Apart from the regulars but in no way less in grandeur like the Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada Fort Complex, Umaid Bhawan Palace, Rai-ka-Bag Palace, Umed Garden, Government Museum, Siddhanath Shiva Temple, and Ganesh Temple, there are other sites to see and absorb in and around Jodhpur that are a must visit. So when in Jodhpur, make sure you get to see at least a few that make the city even more appealing.
Most of these Jodhpur excursions are related to the past of the city, revealing something new to one who has time to listen at the lore. Be it the Balsammand Palace, which was breathed life in by Maharaja Sur Singhji of Jodhpur as his summer pavilion, or the Hall of Heroes (shrine to 330 million gods and a royal cenotaph) located in Mandor; the remnants of the ancient city of Ossian, temples of which easily rival the best in the country- Sun Temple of Konark, or the Jaswant Sagar Dam and the Kalayana Lake spread over 84 sq. km.; Jodhpur will not disappoint. It will, however, be every reason for a wonderful stay in the state of Rajasthan, with unforgettable memories to give you company till the very end, making you come back here, at least once.
Here we are mentioning some of the famous excursions around Jodhpur. Do try to see all or atleast some of the following places:
In this write up, we tell you about various
excursions and places to see around Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India.
Jodhpur Excursions
- Mandore
- Ossian
- Balsammand Palace
- Guda Bishnoi
- Jaswant Sagar Dam
- Machiya Safari Park
- Pali
- Sojat City
- Nimaj
- Nagaur City