Set at the edge of the Thar desert, the imperial city of Jodhpur echoes with tales of antiquity in the emptiness of the desert. Once the capital of the Marwar state, it was founded in 1459 A.D. by Rao Jodha-chief of the Rathore clan of Rajputs who claimed to be descendants of Rama - the epic hero of the Ramayana.The massive 15^th century A.D. Mehrangarh Fort looms on the top of a rocky hill, soaring 125 Mts. above the plains.

The city is encompassed by a high wall -10 km long with 8 gates and innumerable bastions.A major trade center of the 16^th century A.D. the fortress-city of Jodhpur is now the second largest city of Rajasthan.While the graceful palaces , forts and temples strewn throughout the city bring alive the historic grandeur, exquisite handicrafts , folk dances, music and the brightly attired people lend a romantic aura to the city.