Located about five miles north of Jodhpur, Mandore was the former capital of the Maharajas of Marwar. It was later abandoned for the security of the Mehrangarh fort. Here you will find the cenotaphs of Jodhpur’s former rulers that unlike the usual chhatri-shaped cenotaphs typical of Rajasthan,were built along the lines of a Hindu temple, four storeys high, with fine columns and an elegant spire, all in red sandstone.
The cenotaph of Maharaja Ajit Singh is the most impressive one, set in beautiful landscaped gardens. The Hall of Heroes, dedicated to various deities and fabled Rajput folk heroes, whose statues are carved out of rock and painted in bright colors is another attraction. Next door to the Hall of Heroes is a larger hall called the Shrine of the Three Hundred Million, filled with brightly colored images of various Hindu Gods.
As you climb up the hill, you come to the old palace in the ruined city of Mandore. The beautiful Maharani’s cenotaphs set apart on a rocky outcrop are a ten-minute walk over the hill. Today its extensive gardens with high rock terrace make it a popular local attraction.
Listing image: By Nagarjun Kandukuru/Wikimedia commons
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN MANDORE
There are a few budget to mid-range hotels in Mandore that offer all the basic necessities. A few homestay options are also available along with some luxury guest houses. However, it is advisable to book your rooms in advance.
BEST PLACES TO EAT IN MANDORE
The restaurants in Mandore offer a variety of cuisines from Indian to Chinese to Mexican to Italian to German but while in Mandore, make sure to taste the local cuisine from the roadside stalls.
BEST TIME TO VISIT MANDORE
The average minimum and maximum temperature of Mandore is as given below. The best time to visit Mandore is also specified.