Tourist Attractions Jodhpur, India

Apart from the forts and the colorful bazaars, there are some more places of attraction around Jodhpur. On the northern outskirts of town is situated the old capital of Mandore where you can visit the gardens where former rulers are remembered by elaborate temple-like constructions. And further afield is situated a small oasis named Osian which is home to a remarkable collection of early Hindu and Jain temples dating back to 8th to 11th century.

You can also explore the arid surroundings of Jodhpur through the " village safaris ", which are gaining popularity day by day. These safaris take a small group of tourists into the countryside of Rajasthan where you will have for a taste of traditional life. The tours usually include four or five stops at villages set in scrubland where the rare black buck, a beautiful indigenous antelope, is protected by the local Bishnoi tribe who are renowned for their environmental concern. You can know about herbal remedies, taste traditional cuisine, and watch crafts such as spinning and carpet making.

Mandore

Once the ancient capital of Marwar, Mandore lies 9km north of Jodhpur. The place came under the influence of the Rathores in the 14th century. It is home to the fertile gardens in which are housed the royal cenotaphs of the maharajas. The temple shaped memorial of Maharaja Ajit Singh is the largest and the finest. You'll find the Hall of Heroes, a strange display of life-sized gods and Rajput fighters that were hewn out of the rock face early in the eighteenth century.

Osian

64km north of Jodhpur, Osian is home to largest group of early Hindu and Jain temples in Rajasthan. The oldest among the Hindu groups of temples is the Vishnu and Harihara temples dating back to the eighth and ninth centuries AD. Sachiya Mata temple dates back to the twelfth century. The main shrine is dedicated to the Sachiya, an incarnation of Durga. The smaller shrines are dedicated to Ganesh, Shankar (an aspect of Shiva), Surya and Vishnu. Among the Jaina temples the largest and the best preserved is the Mahavir Jain temple, dedicated to Mahavir, the last of the Jaina Tirthankars (Ford makers).

Mahamandir

Situated 2km northeast of Jodhpur city on the Mandore Road, the temple was built in 1812 and is an architectural marvel, supported by 84 intricately carved pillars embellished with detailed designs.

Balsamand Lake and Palace

Located a t a distance of 7kms from the city of Jodhpur, the Balsamund lake and garden complex is a pleasant retreat into the serenity and calm ambience. A palace constructed in 1936, looms over the lake. The lake has, now, been converted into a public park and bird sanctuary. This area has emerged as a popular excursion spot.