Dharohar Oct 2022
An integral part of India’s legacy and heritage (dharohar) are its cities, towns, and villages. History awaits at every corner of India, whether it is a lost legend, a well-preserved palace, or a village bazaar. Through our ‘Dharohar’ section we bring to you some of India’s treasured places.
This month we showcase Jodhpur, the second largest city in the state of Rajasthan, India. Jodhpur is a popular tourist destination, featuring many palaces, forts and temples, set in the stark landscape of the Thar desert. The city is known as the Sun City for the bright, sunny weather it enjoys all year. It is also referred as the Blue City, due to the indigo tinge of the whitewashed houses around the Mehrangarh Fort.
In the month of October, Jodhpur is busy due to the Rajasthan International Folk Festival, an annual music and art festival organized to promote traditional folk music and arts. This five-day-long festival has been regarded as People’s Platform for Creativity and Sustainable Development, by UNESCO. More than 250 artists from different regions around the world perform in this festival, who showcase a fusion of Indian and international music.
One of the most popular places to visit in Jodhpur, is the imposing fortress of Mehrangarh. This historic fort is one of the most famous in India and is packed with history and legends. Chiseled and sturdy, the fort is known for its exquisite, latticed windows, carved panels, intricately decorated windows and walls of Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal and Sheesh Mahal.
Voted as the Best Hotel in the world, Umaid Bhawan Palace is also another major tourist attraction in Jodhpur. Apart from being a heritage hotel, it is a museum and the residence of the Royal Family. Because of its location on the highest point in Jodhpur, the Chittar Hill, it is also referred to as the Chittar Palace.
Toorji Ka Jhalra, commonly called the stepwell of Jodhpur, is an intricate design of stepwell, one of the few remaining structures depicting the traditional water management systems of Jodhpur. This 18th-century stepwell with intricate carvings is a popular spot for photos.
Mandore Gardens is another destination that attracts tourists in great numbers. The Mandore Gardens houses a government museum, a ‘Hall of Heroes’. Various artifacts and statues found in the area are also housed at the museum.
Jodhpur has good connectivity by air, road and rail. Jodhpur is connected to Delhi and Mumbai and the airport is about 5 kilometers from the city center. It is well-connected by road to all major cities and towns.
Jodhpur is indeed a popular tourist destination with many famous palaces, forts, and other historical structures.
Sources:
https://wikitravel.org/en/Jodhpur
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajasthan_International_Folk_Festival
https://sites.google.com/site/naturalplacesinhimachal/manynaturalplaces/jodhpur-gateway-to-thar
https://www.indianholiday.com/fairs-and-festivals/jodhpur/rajasthan-international-folk-festival.html
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g297668-Activities-Jodhpur_Jodhpur_District_Rajasthan.html
https://www.tourism.rajasthan.gov.in/jodhpur.html#main_content
https://www.holidify.com/places/jodhpur/sightseeing-and-things-to-do.html