The imperial sun city of Jodhpur echoes with tales of antiquity in the emptiness of the desert. Founded in 1459 AD by Rao Jodha it was once known as Marwar or the 'Land of Death'. Jodhpur or The Blue city (named because of the blue colored houses to ward off mosquitoes) is the place of origin of those baggy horse-riding trousers, Jodhpurs.In the heart of the old city, overlooked by the magnificent Mehrangarh fort, are remnants of earlier structures. The graceful palaces, forts and temples strewn throughout the city bring alive the historic grandeur, exquisite handicrafts, folk dances music and the brightly attired people lending a romantic aura to the city. The most alluring part of Jodhpur is the traditional lifestyle, festivity and the smiling people who treasure this former Princely state.

Mehrangarh Fort
The 5 km long majestic fort on a 125 metre high hill is one of the most impressive and formidable structures. Although invincible from the outside, the fort has four gates approached by a winding road. Within the fort are some magnificent palaces with marvelously carved panels, latticed windows and evocative names. Not worthy of these are the Moti Mahal, the Phool Mahal, the Sheesh Mahal, the Sileh Khana and the Daulat Khana. These palaces house a fabulous collection of trappings of Indian royalty including a superb collection of palanquins, elephant hawdahs, miniature paintings of various schools, musical instruments, costumes and furniture.

Jaswant Thada
A cluster of royal cenotaphs in white marble built in 1899 A.D. in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Within the main cenotaph are the portraits of various Jodhpur rulers.

Umaid Bhawan Palace
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. This opulent edifice in sandstone is still the residence of the former rulers with a part of it running as hotel and remaining part as a museum.

Girdikot and Sardar Market
These colourful markets with tiny shops dotting the narrow lanes are situated in the heart of the city and are popular for a wide range of handicrafts, making them the favorite haunt of shoppers.

Museum
The museum has an exquisite ensemble of paintings, sculptures and antique weapons.

Guda Bishnoi
These are immaculately - kept settlements of the Bishnoi community - staunch believers in the sanctity of plant and animal

Balsamund Lake & Palace
Built in 1159, this lake and garden complex lies about 7 kms from Jodhpur. A palace constructed in 1936, looms over the lake. The lake has, now, been converted into a public park and bird sanctuary.

• By Air
  Jodhpur is well connected to all the major cities which includes Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Udaipur.
  
• By Bus
  Rajasthan Roadways run very comfortable deluxe & air conditioned buses from Delhi (Bikaner House, Nr. India Gate) to Jodhpur. The roads are very good, and it takes around 12 hrs from Jodhpur. You can also come by taxi.
  
• By Train
  Direct rail connection with many important cities of the country. Some important train connections are : Marudhar Express (Varanasi-Jodhpur); Barmer Express (Jodhpur-Barmer); Ranakpur Express ( Marwar-Jodhpur); Paschim Express (New Delhi-Jodhpur-Mumbai); Ahmedabad-Jodhpur Express (Ahmedabad-Jodhpur).