From Jaipur, we headed due west to the desert outpost city of Jodhpur. Along the way, we traveled through the Thar Desert and it was noticeably getting hotter and hotter; the drive was anything but boring – there were interesting people and things to see nearly the entire way.
Midway Megh-Malhar
Jain Temples on nearby ridge
The Colorful dress of Rajasthani Women
The Half-way Point between Jaipur and Jodhpur
Welcome to Jodhpur, The “Indigo City”
Upon arrival to Jodhpur, we wasted no time as we headed straight for the main tourist attraction which also happened to dominate the city skyline from an angle: The Mehrangarh Fort.
The guide pointed out the many blue (or “indigo”) colored houses around the city. She explained that in ancient times this region of the Thar Desert had problems with termites and what they would do was use a indigo colored paint that also acted as an insect repellent. Overtime, Jodhpur became known as the “indigo city” (or “blue city”).
The Indigo City
The View from the Fort
The Mehrangarh Fort
The Mehrangarh Fort
Sitting high upon a lone desert ridge, the colossal Mehrangarh Fort commands the skyline. Built in the mid-1400’s, it is one of the largest forts in all of India.
The main attraction of Jodhpur, the Mehrangarh Fort is great as a hike, but you can also take a shortcut elevator to the upper levels.  The upper levels contain a wonderful museum, filled with items from the armory and a large palanquin collection. There are also some very impressive galleries containing precious religious artwork.
The Fort and Museum are quite large, so be prepared to do a lot of walking. It is also, well laid out and usage of the audio guides here is highly recommended to get the full experience. Give your self 3-4 hours to explore the fort.
Metallic Model of the Fort
Charging Elephant-proof doors
A Courtyard in the Fort
Royal meeting room
The Throne Room
Brilliant golden ceiling
Apparently, a dangerous staircase
Live demonstration on how to tie a turban
Jaswant Thada
Very close in proximity to the Mehrangarh Fort, the Jaswant Thada is an empty tomb memorial and the cremation grounds for the royal family. Its a very pleasant walk around the grounds, with opportunites for pictures at every turn.
Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum
Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum (from atop the Fort)
Ranakpur Jain Temple
On road between Jodhpur and Udaipur, lies the Ranakpur Jain Temple. Said to be the most beautiful of all the Jain temples of the world, Â it was constructed in the 15th century. It also has the auspicious distinction of somehow remaining hidden during the Mughal rule, thus escaping destruction.
Ranakpur Jain Temple
 
   
Final Thoughts on Jodhpur:
In traveling through Rajasthan, one thing become clear to me. Each destination somehow seemed to be even more beautiful than the last, and that was again true of Jodhpur. One night in this city was not enough to explore the city and the many tourist excursions to the surrounding deserts that are accessible from Jodhpur. This city and the adjacent western region is high on my list for next time I return to India.
Cheers!
