Jodhpur, popularly known as “Sun City” is also referred to as the “Blue City” due to the light blue painted houses around the Mehrangarh Fort which is fortified by a wall with several gates. Jodhpur is the second largest city of Rajasthan; It is centrally situated at a distance of 335 km from the state capital, Jaipur, and 200 km from the city of Ajmer. Jodhpur is a popular tourist destination, featuring many palaces, forts, and temples, set in the stark landscape of the That Desert. The city has expanded extensively outside the walled city over the past several decades. Due to the rapid urbanization, like other big cities of India, Jodhpur city is experiencing problems with urbanization. Acute shortage of water supply, poor urban services, and proliferating slums and shanty colonies underline the realities of transformation in Jodhpur. Growing dissatisfaction among the people and deteriorating service delivery mechanisms is a sign of the struggling urban lifestyle in Jodhpur city.

Jodhpur, the second largest city in Rajasthan is popularly known as the Blue City. The name is clearly befitting as most of the architecture – forts, palaces, temples, Havelis, and even houses are built in vivid shades of blue. The strapping forts that tower this magnificent city sum up a spectacle you would not want to miss. The mammoth, imposing fortress of Mehrangarh has a landscape dominating a rocky ridge with eight gates leading out of the fortress. The new city is located outside the structure. Jodhpur is also known for the rare breed of horses known as Marwari or Malani, which are only found here.

Jodhpur marks its origin back to the year of 1459 AD. The history of this prosperous city revolves around the Rathore clan. Rao Jodha, the chief of the Rathore Clan is credited with the origin of Jodhpur in India. The city is known to be built in place of the ancient capital, Mandore of the state of Manwar. Hence, the people of Jodhpur and surrounding areas are commonly known as Marwaris. Also, it is believed that the relics of Mandore can still be witnessed in the Mandore Gardens.

MEHRANGARH FORT

Rising perpendicular and impregnable from a hill that is 125 meters above Jodhpur’s skyline is the Mehrangarh Fort. This historic fort is one of the most famous in India and is packed with history and legends. Mehrangarh Fort still bears the imprints of cannonball attacks courtesy of the armies of Jaipur on its second gate. 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.