Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, Rajasthan is one of the largest and most preserved forts in India. Built in 1459 by Maharaja Rao Jodha, the fort is set atop a hill 125 meter above the city level is surrounded by an impressive thick wall. The fort complex has many palaces and expansive courtyards with intricate carvings on stone. The museum in the Mehrangarh fort exhibits a rich collection of palanquins, musical instruments, royal cradles, costumes, arms, furniture and paintings. Panoramic views of the Jodhpur city from the fort, seems like a blue carpet laid at the foot of a hill are mesmerizing.

Much has been written about the Citadel of the Sun, for truly, it is one of the most impressive in all Rajasthan. So colossal are its proportions that Rudyard Kipling called it “ the work of giants”.

Jaswant Thada is the cenotaph in Jodhpur built in 1899 in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II and serves as cremation ground for the royal family of Marwar or Jodhpur. The cenotaph is built out of intricately carved sheets of white marble. These extremely thin sheets have been polished so that they reflect the glow when illuminated by the Sun.

Clock Tower and Sardar Market in old city of Jodhpur is the central market having shops selling grains to handicrafts of Rajasthani patch and mirror work. Clock Tower in the center of the market was constructed by Maharaja Sardar Singh in 19th century. A walk through the market is to immerse yourself in the authentic market of India.

Just about 20 kms/30 minutes drive from Jodhpur city, the ancient town of Mandore served as the capital of many Jodhpur kings, till the capital was shifted to hilltop Mehrangarh Fort, for better safety and protection to the royal kingdom from invasions.

The Mandore Gardens, today, houses ancient temples, memorials and high-rock terraces that are quite magnificent. The Cenotaphs or chattris of the many Maharajas of Jodhpur, are a group of red sandstone buildings with intricate carvings, pillars, tall spires, elaborate corridors and sculptural embellishments. One of the intricately carved temples is called as " Temple of 330 million gods" houses the images of various Hindu deities.

Just about 20 kms/30 minutes drive from Jodhpur city, the ancient town of Mandore served as the capital of many Jodhpur kings, till the capital was shifted to hilltop Mehrangarh Fort, for better safety and protection to the royal kingdom from invasions.

The Mandore Gardens, today, houses ancient temples, memorials and high-rock terraces that are quite magnificent. The Cenotaphs or chattris of the many Maharajas of Jodhpur, are a group of red sandstone buildings with intricate carvings, pillars, tall spires, elaborate corridors and sculptural embellishments. One of the intricately carved temples is called as " Temple of 330 million gods" houses the images of various Hindu deities.

Take a Jeep and drive out of Jodhpur for about an hour or so to experience the life style of Bishnoi – A Hindu religious group living in small villages in the western Thar Desert. For centuries when villages around Jodhpur were the part of the silk route trade, they have been growing and trading opium ( It is illegal to grow and consume Opium in India ). As Opium is illegal now but they have been using it for years when it was legal , they still grow poppies and as they can not afford the opium in quantity, they do not smoke but melt it down in a sugar cube and than drink it in little quantity with tea, water with every thing they eat or drink. The process is very unique and traditional. This small excursion of around 3-4 hours also given you an opportunity to experience the village life amid Thar desert.

Jodhpur amid Thar desert once was on famous Silk trade route on which, for centuries, traders kept travelling and so contributing to the local Rajasthani food of Jodhpur. There are many nice restaurants serving authentic Rajasthani (a bit spicy) cuisines with magnificient views of Mehrangrah Fort like one at Hotel Raas.

However, for a memorable culinary experience, Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur offers private dining in fairy tale settings, with handcrafted menus and impeccable service. One of the most remarkable venues for a romantic dinner is Barahdari with the magnificent palace as a backdrop. This culinary experience will not only satisfy your taste buds will be a memory you will treasure forever.