Jodhpur
Jodhpur is a city with many names. Some call it the “Sun City” because of its warm and sunny weather through the year; the “Blue City” because of the colour of the houses that dominate the landscape; and even “Gateway to Thar,” as it is sits on the edge of the Thar Desert. However, don’t let the names confuse, Jodhpur isn’t a chaotic city still trying to find its way. It’s just a city with so much to offer that a single name will not do it justice.
The historic city dates back to the year 1459 AD when it was founded by Rao Jodha. Home to a number of important forts, palaces and temples, Jodhpur gives a glimpse of Old India, like never before. From the moment you enter the city, one structure will follow you, no matter where you go—The Mehrangarh Fort. One of the largest forts in Rajasthan, the Mehrangarh fort houses the Maharaja’s palace, several temples, and an impressive botanical garden that is still maintained well. Even Batman could not escape this fort’s glances! See if you can spot the locations where Christopher Nolan shot parts of the The Dark Knight Rises.
After a long day at the fort, come back to the present day and pamper yourself with a massage and meal at one of the most luxurious hotel in the world. The Umaid Bhawan Palace was the largest private residency in Rajasthan and this golden sandstone palace now welcomes visitors to ogle at the artwork, sit in its vintage cars, and wander through its private museum.
While in Jodhpur, the famous jodhpuri juttis, delicate traditional leather shoes must be picked up from the city’s main shopping area, Nai Sadak. The market is picturesquely lined with colorful shops and tempting restaurants with traditional Rajasthani food. Just like the city’s architecture, the cuisine has remained untouched for all these centuries. So take a seat and eat like a king.