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to See Mehrangarh Fort:Dominating the city of
Jodhpur is Mehrangarh, one of Rajasthan's three great hilltop forts (the other two are
Kumbhalgarh and Chittaurgarh). Mehrangarh literally means "Majestic Fort". It is
located at the very centre of the city, and is visible from the surrounding area. There
are, in all, three gates, each built to commemorate a particular victory, as well as to
reinforce the fort. Originally built in 1806, the fort has been added to, many times
since. Carved panels and porches, elaborately adorned walls and windows of Moti Mahal,
Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Sileh Khana and Daulat Khana seem to make the medieval splendor
come alive. The palaces in this fort were built in an informal pattern over several
centuries. They have their own peculiar style, with narrow staircases, serving as the only
means of access to the royal residences within. A collection of musical instruments,
palanquins, furniture and cannons on the fort's ramparts are well - preserved.
Mehrangarh appears impregnable, and
with good reason. Its battlements soar four hundred feet above a hill, that rises sharply
from the surrounding countryside. Mehrangarh has its own architectural appeal, such as
brilliant stained glass, that creates vibrant mosaics on the floors, with the passage of
the sun through the day.
Umaid Bhavan Palace:The 20th
century Umaid Bhavan Palace, (also known as Chhittar Palace because of the Chhittar
sandstone used in building it) was built in a time of peace, and is quite Western in its
design. It was built, as a famine relief project, which gave employment to people, for 16
years. Under a dome, the like of which no other palace in Rajasthan can boast of, the
Palace contains over 300 rooms. It has its own theatre, eight dining rooms, and a banquet
hall which seats three hundred people. A Ball Room had been built, catering to the
Westernised royal lifestyle. Much of the interior of the palace is in the art deco style.
In fact, it is said to be one of the finest surviving examples of art deco in the world.
Deep within the palace is an indoor swimming pool, with a mosaic of zodiac symbols. The
palace now runs as a hotel, though, a part of it has been retained as a museum and part as
royal residence.
Jaswant Thada:Close to the fort
complex lies this white marble cenotaph, built in 1899, in commemoration of Maharaja
Jaswant Singh II. Rare portraits of Jodhpur's rulers are, also, to be seen at Jaswant
Thada.
Clock Tower and Sardar Market:A
prime attraction of the city, is the Clock Tower and the colourful Sardar Market near it.
Narrow alleys lead to quaint bazaars selling textiles, antiques, silverware and
handicrafts.

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