Mandore garden was the last attractions which I saw in Jodhpur. When I reach here, I didn’t saw any ticket counter which made me a bit sad because as per my experience most attractions in India that don’t have an entry ticket aren’t properly maintained. But I can’t say this for Mandore Garden.
Mandore has its roots way behind the rule of Rajputs of Jodhpur which started in 12th century AD. As per some modern sources, Rajput rulers took Mandore after a war against the Gujars who ruled Mandore from 6th century AD. Anther theory which I heard from a local is that Mandore is the hometown of Ravan’s mother, Mandodari. I believe in the 1st one as it’s a recorded history.
So what to expect here?
If you are afraid of langurs, they don’t come here alone. Though I must say that monkeys and langurs in Rajasthan are not as naughty as the ones in Delhi.
The first interesting thing which I saw was a group of langurs sitting at the water fountain and believe me, I am not one of those wanderers who loves to take pictures with a langur. So here is a shot from a distance.
From here, on the right-hand side are the main attractions of Mandore Garden, the red sandstone temples dedicated to Hindu gods and are also the memorial of famous Jodhpur monarchs.
Temples and memorials of Mandore Garden
There are around dozen well-maintained temples which I have private security guards, appointed by the current maharaja of Jodhpur. The most notable one is the temple of Maharaja Dhiraj Ajit Singh (1793) as its quite well decorated and has a bloody history behind it.
When Ajit Singh passed his wives and concubines (around 64) committed Sati (died along with their husband) in the year 1724 AD.
Apart from this grand temple, there are many beautifully crafted cenotaphs and temples in the compound. Below I have shared all the pictures I took for my collection. Just have a look.
How to reach here?
Mandore Garden is just outside Jodhpur, but you can easily get an autorickshaw from the city. Though they will charge you extra as they can easily judge that you are a traveller :)
Opening & Closing Time?
There isn’t any confirmed time as Mandore Garden is more like a colony garden, but I would suggest visiting between 8 AM to 8 PM.
Lovely pictures! Thanks for sharing!
Thanks Nitin
Oh my gosh!!! Beautiful pictures
Thanks Isabel
The architecture looks quite similar to Dilwara Temple. Awesome!
Haven’t been to Dilwara Temple, but its in the bucket list. Thanks for the tip Sourjya
I have lovely memories of this place ..My BSF school used to be nearby..we used to walked down to Mandore garden.Thanks for sharing
Yeah I did see a military barracks near by. Is the cantt area nearby Mandore Garden?
Awesome pictures. Keep up the good work.
BTW methinks Manndodari was the Queen consort of Ravana.