Introduction to Jodhpur: The city of Jodhpur situated on the south end of a range of sandstone hills running east and West and is surrounded by a strong wall nearly 13 Kms in circumference, with seven gates each bearing the name of the town to which it leads. These gates are known as Nagori gate, Sojati gate, Merti gate, Jalori gate, Siwanchi gate etc. This land of royalty is a glittering jewel set in the golden sands of barren desert landscape. The light that reflects of the golden sands engulf a land renowned for its vibrant colours, people in the bright clothes and beautiful jewellery, living in city dotted and dominated by towering fort and palaces that rise from sand like a mirage.

The home of the Rathores, Jodhpur was founded by the Rajput chief Rao Jodha in 1459. The city was the erstwhile capital of the Marwar state. Marwar or Maroodesh, land of the sand, was conquered by them after the fall of Delhi and Kannauj. Jodhpur has a typical desert climate, dry and hot. The ideal time to visit this place is between November and March. Like the oasis in the vast desert, the city has a variety of thorny shrubs all over the area. It also home to some of the animal species that can survive in an arid and dry environment.

Sightseeing: The forts and palaces in the city are the major source of attraction in the city. Exploring the forts gives you a feel of the times when the Rajput might was at its peak. The gates and the walls of the forts speak of the battles they have witnessed. One needs to spend enough time with these historical monuments to fully grasp the grandeur of the Rajput era. Some of the major attractions around Jodhpur are: Mehrangarh Fort- Situated at an altitude of about 125 metres, the Mehrangarh Fort is spread over an area of 5 sq. km in the heart of the city. The fort is visited by thousands of tourists every year who come to have a glimpse of the artillery system of the Rajput warriors. Jaswant Thada- a white marble memorial built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant II in 1899 A story goes that Maharaja Jaswant succumbed to injuries in this place while fighting the Mughal king Jahangir. Umaid Bhawan- Made of marble and pink sandstone, the construction of the Umaid Bhawan started in 1929 and it took 16 years to complete it. It is believed that the palace was constructed to give employment to the famine-struck population of Jodhpur. This majestic building is presently the residence of the former rulers with a part of it running as hotel and remaining part as a museum. Mandore Gardens, the Government Museum and Zoo, Old Fort Museum and Balsamand Lake and Gardens are other attractions

Excursions: The places around Jodhpur offer further insight into the regions religious, cultural and commercial past besides being interesting tourist spots in themselves. The desert hamlet presents a picturesque view and the forts converted into heritage hotels provide fascinating places to relax. Some of the major excursions around the city are Osian Dhawa, Nagaur, Rohet Fort and Khimsar.