Fact File Area - 78.60 sq. km  Population - 6,66,279  Altitude - 230 metres above sea level  Languages - Marwari, Rajasthani and Hindi  Best time to visit - November to March STD Code - 0291  Hotels in Jodhpur

Introduction Famous for its magnificent forts and palaces, Jodhpur is the second largest city of Rajasthan and a major tourist attraction in the country. The city is situated at the edge of the Thar Desert with Jaisalmer on its west, Barmar, Jalor and Pali on its south, Bikaner on its north, and Nagaur on the eastern side Jodhpur was founded by the Rajput chief Rao Jodha in 1459. The city was the erstwhile capital of the Marwar state. A 10-km-long wall made of stone and built about a century after the city was founded, surrounds the old city. There are about 100 towers in the city, most of which are surrounded by defensive battlements. Jodhpur has a typical desert climate, dry and hot. The ideal time to visit this place is between November and March. Like the oasis in the vast desert, the city has a variety of thorny shrubs all over the area. It also home to some of the animal species that can survive in an arid and dry environment.  Sightseeing The forts and palaces in the city are the major source of attraction in the city. Exploring the forts gives you a feel of the times when the Rajput might was at its peak. The gates and the walls of the forts speak of the battles they have witnessed. One needs to spend enough time with these historical monuments to fully grasp the grandeur of the Rajput era. Some of the major attractions around Jodhpur are Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada, Umaid Bhawan, Mandore Gardens, the Government Museum and Zoo, Old Fort Museum and Balsamand Lake and Gardens. Excursions The places around Jodhpur offer further insight into the regions religious, cultural and commercial past besides being interesting tourist spots in themselves. The desert hamlet presents a picturesque view and the forts converted into heritage hotels provide fascinating places to relax. Some of the major excursions around the city are Osian Dhawa, Nagaur, Rohet Fort and Khimsar.