|
Mehrangarh Fort
The 5 km long majestic fort on a 125 m high elevated land is one
of the most impressive and formidable structure in Jodhpur
Although invincible from the outside, the fort has four gates
approached by a winding road. Within the fort are some awesome
palaces with interestingly carved panels, latticed windows and
evocative names.
Jaswant Thada
On the way down from the fort, on left is Jaswant Thada, the
graceful marble cenotaph of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. His son
Maharaja Sardar Singhji built the Taj Mahal of Marwar in the memory
of Maharaj Jaswant Singhji II of Jodhpur. The cenotaphs of earlier
Maharajas and Maharanis are at Mandore. Wives and concubines
committed Sati on Jaswant Funeral pyre. The main memorial has been
built like a temple with intricately carved marble stone that is
sculpted by the genius artesian. A visit to this structure is
through the rocky hills giving it a secluded and a mystic aura.
Umaid Bhawan Palace
Also known as Cheetar Palace, the Umaid Bhawan Palace is the only
20th century palace built under the famine relief
project that gave employment to famine struck population. The palace
was completed in 16 years. The brilliant monument built in sandstone
is still the residence of the former rulers with a section of it
running as a hotel and remaining part as a museum.
Lakes in Jodhpur
Kaylana Lake :- Located 8 kms. West of
Jodhpur, Kaylana lake was constructed in 1872 by Pratap Singh. It is
spread over 84 square kilometers' area. Earlier this area had
palaces and gardens made by two rulers of Jodhpur-Bhim Singh and
Takhat Singh. These were destroyed to make Kaylana lake. Near the
lake is a Dak Bungalow of Irrigation department. This famous picnic
spot has taken the lives of many youngesters trying to swin across
this deep lake.
Mandore Garden
Mandore was the former capital of
Maharajas of Marwar and is located about 5 miles north of Jodhpur,
but was later abandoned for the security of Mehrangarh fort. Here
you will find the dewals, or cenotaphs of Jodhpur's former rulers.
Unlike the usual chhatri-shaped cenotaphs typical of Rajasthan, they
were built along the lines of a Hindu temple, four stories high,
with fine columns and an elegant spire, all in red sandstone. The
most impressive is the dewal of Maharaja Ajit Singh (reigned
1678-1724). These cenotaphs are set in beautiful landscaped gardens.
|
