Jodhpur ûthe bustling desert city is the second largest city in the Indian state of Rajasthan after Jaipur. It is located 335 kilometres west from the state capital, Jaipur and 200 kilometers from the city of Ajmer. It was founded by Rao Jodha, the leader of the Rathore Clan in 1459 AD. In the reign of Maharaja Umed Singh Jodhpur grew into a modern city. The quintessence of Jodhpur was its velour and equestrian skill. Polo has been the traditional sport of the Jodhpur nobility since medieval times. Jodhpur is a popular tourist destination, featuring many palaces, forts and temples, set in the stark landscape of the Thar Desert.
The city is known as the “Sun City” for the bright, sunny weather it enjoys all year. It is also referred to as the “Blue City” due to the blue-painted houses around the Mehrangarh Fort. The old city circles the fort and is bounded by a wall with several gates. However, the city has expanded greatly outside the wall over the past several decades. Jodhpur lies near the geographic center of Rajasthan state, which makes it a convenient base to travel in a region, which is much frequented by tourists. JodhpurÆs attractions include Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jaswant Thada, and Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower). Jodhpur fairs and festivals seem to express the rich culture and traditions of Rajasthan. A number of festivals are celebrated in Jodhpur. However, the most famous fairs and festivals in Jodhpur, Rajasthan are: Marwar Festival, Jodhpur International Desert Kite Festival & Nagaur Fair.