Excursions
in Jodhpur
Osian
The ancient town of Thar Desert was a great trading
center between 8th to 12th centuries. Today it is desert
oasis with 16 Brahamanical and Jain temples, beautifully
sculpted and designed, most of which have stood ravages
of time. The place is highlighted by its camel ride
at the time of the sunset. The tourist's have the liberty
to watch the architectural forms during that camel ride
and return back to the camps or the resorts followed
by drinks and thematic evening of performing arts and
a choice of oriental cuisines arranged in the ethnic
style of that region. The stay at the camps enriches
the feel of the holiday. The camp Thar being the best
among the staying facilities.
Machiya Safari Park
It lies on the way to Jaisalmer, about 1km from Kailana
Lake. The key fauna of the safari park includes, deer,
desert fox, monitor lizard, blue bulls rabbits, wild
cats, mongoose, monkeys etc. There is also large number
of birds, which can seen from an exclusive bird watching
point and also nice sunset can seen from the fort of
park.
Pali
Pali is named after the Paliwal Brahmins who once inhabited
the area. Ancient Pali housed a highly evolved civilization.
The land, was leased by the then chief of Mandore (the
former capital of Jodhpur district), was cultivated
diligently by the Paliwals who abandoned their former
priestly profession. The temples of Somnath and Naulakha
are very old. Naulakha Jain temple has elaborate carvings
while Somnath Shiv temple is known for its handsome
bulling having exquisite mouldings.
Sojat
Sojat city, is situated on the left bank of the Sukri
River near Pali town, known as Tamravati in the ancient
times, the fort has a big reservoir and several temples
like Sejal Mata, Chaturbhuj and much more. The old temple
of Chamunda Mata located on the top of one of the hillocks.
Dargah of Pir Mastan is the main attraction at the time
of Urs- the Muslim festival. One of the major attractions
of this city is the plantation of mehandi trees, a herbal
plant where the leaves are squashed into a thin paste
and applied on the hands and the feet in various attractive
designs.
This traditional art form is now known all over the
world and is internationally adopted in the fashion
circuit. Many of the foreign tours who happen to cross
this perticuler route towards Udaipur or Mount Abu often
takes a break and get there palms and feets decorated
by the Mehndi of Sojat as it is very popular across
the country.
Another prominent place to be seen are the temple of
Ramdeoji near village Biratiya, the fort of Desuri,
Kurki the birth place of Mirabai the legendry poetess
who dedicated her whole life worshiping lord Krishna
and spreading his message all over, that attracted the
Mughal rulers too. Following these are few more locals
like Jawai bandh, Jain temples of Narlai.
Nimaj
Nimaj boasts of a temple built in 9th century. It was
dedicated to goddess Ma Durga . It also covers a unique
art gallery showcasing some masterpieces of sculptural
art, adorned within natural surroundings so as to provide
an authentic ambience.
Nagaur
The Ahhichatragarh Fort is medium sized, which have
been built by Mughal Emperors Akbar and Shaha Jahan.
A well planned Mughal Garden, which retains its pleasant
appearance even today. The city has distinct Muslim
influences and a Five Domed Mosque built by Emperor
Akbar dominates the landscape. The city is best visited
during the Ramdeoji Ka mela and Tejaji ka mela in February
and August respectively. Nagaur is approachable by express
busses of RSRTC and by taxi.
Kailana Lake
Situated on Jaisalmer road. This is a charming picnic
spot with a small artificial lake. And if you are here
to stay on to take delight in the sunset. It is like
a canvas with a splash of romantic colors. The beauty
will linger on with you for a long time.
Balsamand Lake & Palace
An enchanting picnic spot with cool breeze weaving through
the lush grove of mango, guava, papaya and other fruits.
A placid artificial lake with a summer palace on the
embankment. It was built by Balak Rao Parihar in 1159
AD. The serene surroundings will leave you at peace
with yourself.
Sardar Samand Lake & Palace
As you go up to the shimmering lake and palace, a meandering
and interesting drive will keep you entraced. The countryside
with its lively villages and smiling, gay village folk
of Jhalamand and Goora, will make you stop by and taste
a bit of their hospitality. Photographers and adventurists
can have day packed with enthralling excitement. Freely
roaming herds of Chinkaras and Black Bucks can be seen
here in large numbers.
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