History of Jodhpur goes like this. The Rathore Rajputs moved to Marwar - `the region of death` in 1211 when they were defeated by Muhammad Ghori at Kannauj. Rao Jodha, the Rathore chieftain was forced to leave the former Rajput capital at Mandore in 1459, as the place was not located strategically. They chose a new place, located 8 km from the Mandore on the edge of Thar Desert. Rahores controlled a large part of Rajasthan, especially during the reigns of Rao Udai Singh (1581 AD) and his son Raja Sur Singh ((1595), who conquered Gujarat and a good part of Deccan for the Mughal Emperor Akbar.

The Rathores always had good relationships with the Mughals and Maharaja Jaswant Singh (1678) supported Shahjahan in the Mughal struggle for war of succession. Only problematic relationship they had was with Aurangzeb. After the death of Aurangzeb in 1707, Maharaja Ajit Singh became the ruler of Jodhpur. He drove out Mughals from Ajmer and added substantially to the Mehrangarh Fort. Now all part of History of Jodhpur.

Jodhpur is the second largest city of Rajasthan, after Jaipur. Rao Jodha, a chief of Rathore clan, founded the city in 1459. Also known as the "Sun City", Jodhpur has quite a history attached to it. The Rathores, after being driven away from Kanauj by the Afghans, settled in the area around Pali city, near Jodhpur. Thereafter an alliance was arranged between Rathore Siahaji and the sister of a local prince. This helped the Rathores in establishing and strengthening themselves in this region. Their might grew by the day and they even drove out the Pratiharas of Mandore, 9 km from Jodhpur.

As time passed, the Rathores felt the need to set up a more safe and secure capital. This need led to the foundation of Mehrangarh fort and thus, the city of Jodhpur in Rajasthan, India. Under the rule of maharaja Umed Singh, the city further prospered and developed into a fine modern city. During the time of the British, Jodhpur earned the designation of the largest state in Rajputana. The city, along with its dominant Marwari (the merchants) population flourished endlessly. When India gained independence in 1947, Jodhpur merged into the union of India.

The city now stands divided into two parts, the old city and the new city. Surrounded by a 10 km long wall, the old city has 8 gates leading out of it. Beyond the walled old city, lies the new city of Jodhpur. The main attraction of the city is the massive Mehrangarh fort, one of the largest forts in India. Housing numerous places, galleries, a temple and a museum inside it, the fort reflects the talent of the Jodhpuri artisans. Apart from that, various other attractions like a number of lakes, gardens, museums, temples, etc make Jodhpur travel and tourism a truly fulfilling experience.

Shopping in Jodhpur

Antiques
Jodhpur is an antique hunter`s paradise. Many of these are made-as-old artifacts from Jodhpur and the Shekhawati region. You will found old furniture, chests, cabinets, sculptures, doors, windows, carved lintels, old pictures, memorabilia, and rare, first-edition books. Prices are not high but further bargaining is difficult. Most such shops are located at the foothill of Umaid Bhawan.

Bandhini
At Kapra Bazaar, look out for bandhini and lahariya (hand-dyed) fabrics worn by the locals. Tie-dyed in small motifs or in wave-like strips, on cotton, chiffon or silk, these are available as sarees , Jodhpuri coats, Rajasthani dresses, salwar-kameez sets, yardages used for turbans. At Mehar Collection you will found all types of bandhini in a very suitable prices.

Footwear
If you want to give a royal touch in your dresses Visit Mochi Bazaar in the walled city and Jutti Corner on Station Road for Jodhpuri footwear, or finely embroidered mojris. A pair should cost about Rs 450-500, though those with less embroidery & larger stitches is half that.

Mathaniya`s Red Chilli
Jodhpur is suitable for those who are used to of spices food . Mathaniya`s Red Chilli. are famous for its redish colour . it is send to many part of this country and outer world too.

Tourist Attractions in Jodhpur
Tourist Attractions in Jodhpur Jodhpur, the Blue City, is a fascinating city of Rajasthan, India. One of the most traveled tourist destinations in Rajasthan, Jodhpur is famous for its magnificent forts, beautiful palaces, havelis, museums, temples and colorful bazaars. Jodhpur is also known for its unique culture, arts and crafts and colorful festivals. India Travel Portal offers to take you to this fascinating tourist destination of Rajasthan on your Jodhpur tour. Jodhpur has a number of exciting tourist attractions, promising its visitors with an unforgettable holiday experience.

Things to See in Jodhpur

Mehrangarh Fort:
The magnificent 15th century Mehrangarh Fort is the most famous tourist attraction in Jodhpur. Situated on a 125 m high sandstone hill, the 5 km long Mehrangarh Fort never fails to enchant its visitors. The Fort houses a number of beautiful palaces in its compound including Moti Mahal, Janaki Mahal, Chandan Mahal, Royal Durbar Takht, Rang Mahal, Sheesh Mahal and Phool Mahal among many more. The Fort also houses a Museum.

Umaid Bhawan Palace:
Located at the top of a hill, Umaid Bhawan Palace is another important landmark of Jodhpur. Commissioned by Maharaja Umaid Singh in 1929 as a famine relief scheme, the impressive pink sandstone and marble palace was completed in 1944 AD, providing employment for 3,000 famine-stricken people. Now a famous 5-star heritage hotel, it also houses a Museum

Jaswant Thada:
The 19th century royal cenotaph, Jaswant Thada is located north of the Mehrangarh Fort. The cenotaph of Jaswant Singh II (1878-95) built in 1899 is the most impressive with ornamental gardens and chattris made of white marble.

Balsamand Lake and Palace:
Just 7 km from Jodhpur, the enchanting Balsamand Palace was once a royal summer palace on the embankments of a beautiful and serene Balsamand Lake.

Government Museum:
Located in the beautiful Umaid Garden, Government Museum displays a rich collection of weapons, textiles, miniature portraits, local crafts and images of Jain Tirthankaras.

Getting There
Air :
Jodhpur has its own airport, which receives flights from major cities of India.

Rail :
Jodhpur is on the Western Railway`s broad-gauge network and is linked to various centers in the region by express and passenger trains.

Road :
Jodhpur is well connected by luxury and deluxe coachers, overnight connections. Several coach operators run buses between Jodhpur and other major centers in the regions.