Jodhpur or the Sun City is the one of the main centers of Rajasthan tourism. It is the second largest region in the state of Rajasthan. It stands as a beauty in the middle of arid landscape. Jodhpur is dotted with palatial buildings, forts, temples and gardens. As a result tourists from all over the world come here to witness its grandeur. Even today Jodhpur is a treasure house history and culture. One of the magnificent citadels, Mehrangarh Fort, is located in this very district. Besides the local attractions a host of fairs and festivals also draw tourists to this place. If it is the time for festivities then Jodhpur is sure to receive visitors.

Location of Jodhpur: It is located right at the heart of Rajasthan. It presents a spark of beauty in the middle of the desert. As it enjoys a central location it is easy to access the district. The international airport is located in Jodhpur. It is 5 kilometers away from the city center. The city is also well connected with railway lines and by road with the rest of the sub-continent.

History of Jodhpur: Its history revolves around the Rathore dynasty. Rao Jodha, Rathore king, is said to be the founder of Jodhpur. He founded the region in 1459. In ancient India it was also known as Marwar. They mostly shared a good rapport with the Mughals except for Aurangzeb. Different rulers added to the beauty of the kingdom by adding some building or the other. Culturally Jodhpur was the most happening place in Rajasthan. Till date festivals, such as, Marwar festival showcases to the world the rich folk music tradition of Jodhpur. However it was under the regime of Maharaja Umed Singh that Jodhpur evolved into a modern city. Post independence when Jodhpur was merged with the dominion of India it became the second largest city in Rajasthan.

Travel Information on Jodhpur: Since Jodhpur is a popular tourist destination there are several accommodation units here. Besides the huge list of the heritage hotels the tourists may also make their choice from the luxury, economy and budget hotels. The best season to visit Jodhpur is from September to March. `Palace on Wheels` is one of the most interesting ways to explore Jodhpur.

Accommodations in Jodhpur: Most of the palatial buildings in Jodhpur have been converted to heritage hotels. Here lies a golden opportunity for the visitors to enjoy the life of the kings. The services at the accommodation units in Jodhpur are quite impressive. With state of art facilities they epitomize Indian hospitality. Besides the deluxe hotels budget ones are also available in the district.

About Jodhpur City: The city is where most of the local attractions are located. Jodhpur`s oldest fort, Mehrangarh, stands tall in the city. People from across the world come here to witness this massive structure. Like the rest of the district the city too has all the arrangements to cater to the guests. Since the district has evolved over the years people on business tours also drop in. Hence the city is also prepared to cater to such guests. The buildings and other structures within the city boundary reflect the by gone eras.

Places of Interest in Jodhpur: There are several places of interest in Jodhpur. One of the foremost one is the Mehrangarh Fort. Within the fort there are several buildings that are worth checking out. These are Umaid Vilas, Phool mahal, Jhanki mahal, Moti Mahal, Chamunda Devi temple and Jaswant Thada. One of the most beautiful palaces in Jodhpur is the Umaid Bhawan Palace. Presently it has been converted into a heritage hotel. Museums in Jodhpur and the Maha Mandir are other local attractions.

Places of Interest Around Jodhpur: Very few places in Rajasthan are blessed with such interesting neighborhood. But Jodhpur is one of those privileged few. Excursion tours are regularly arranged for the travelers so that can enjoy these places as well. These sites include:-

Mandore

Bal Samand Lake and palace

Sardar Samand Lake and palace

Osian

Dhawa

Nagaur

Achalgarh Fort

Amar singh`s Cenotaph

Dargha of Sultan UL Tarkin

Jain Kaanch ka Mandir

Bansiwale ki mandir

Phalodi Khichan

Manvar

Mandore is one of the popular Places of Interest around Jodhpur. The town of Mandore is located 9 kilometers north of Jodhpur City. Local transportations, such as, taxis and rented cars are available for sightseeing and excursion tours from the city. It was once the kingdom of the Pratihara dynasty. Till 1459 it remained under the Rathores clan and then the Rathores shifted their capital to Jodhpur. There are a number of tourist destinations at Mandore. This historical town houses a number of important monuments and one of them is the Mandore Fort. Presently it is in ruins. Its thick walls were of considerable size and the outer walls have been decorated by intricately carved botanical designs, birds, animals and planets.

Apart from the fort the Mandore gardens is another attraction. It has an impressive collection of temples and memorials. The garden houses the cenotaphs of the erstwhile Rajput rulers. The most prominent amongst these cenotaphs is the one that belongs to Maharaja Ajit Singh. It was built in the year 1793. There is a government museum where the tourists will come across the `Hall of Heroes`. Here one will come across 16 figures are carved out of a single rock. "The Shrine of the Three Hundred Million Gods" has various idols of Hindu Gods.