Excursions
Mandore Garden
Mandore was the capital of Marwar before the foundation of Jodhpur. Today,
its extensive gardens with high rock terraces make it a popular local attraction.
The highlight of this place is the "Hall of Heroes" which houses sixteen
gigantic figures, chiseled out of one single rock. The statues are either of
popular Hindu deities or famous folk deities. The royal cenotaphs or "Devals"
of Jodhpur rulers on a high plinth crowned with souring spires, ornate carving
are amongst other attractions of the Mandore. The longest and fines of all cenotaphs,
are those built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh and Maharaja Ajit Singh.
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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.
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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.
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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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Dhawa(Doli)
Forest Area
Situated on Barmer road. Wild life - exotic and untamed - invites you to an
irresistible adventure. Perhaps the largest number of Black Indian Antelopes
in a variety of species can be watched. Roaming free and almost mingling in
the Bishnoi village. These antelopes are sacred to the Vishnois. And they protect
them from poachers with a fervour and religious zeal, typical of this tribe.
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Osian
This ancient town of Thar Desert, was a great trading center between 8th - 12th
century. Today, it is a desert oasis with sixteen Brahamanical and Jain temples,
beautifully sculpted and designed, most of which have stood ravages of time.
The largest of these are Sachchiya mata temple and Mahavir Jain temple, which
are both functional. This medieval town is surrounded by rows of sand dunes
on western end. While in Osian watch out for lovely sunsets and camel rides.
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Phalodi - Khichan
A drive through the countryside, 75-km beyond Osian brings you to Phalodi, the
city of richly carved haveli's and temples. Nearby there is a village Khichan,
which is regular host to the flocks of demoiselle Cranes (Locally called Kurjan),
which come in thousands due to the amiable conditions and protection given by
the villagers. Their duration of stay is about 5 to 6 months, after which they
migrate back to their breeding grounds, in March-April, many folk songs are
also based upon them.
