Jodhpur pulsates with life in a dry, harsh region that is described as ‘Marwar’, which loosely translated means ‘the land of the dead.’ The imposing Meharangarh Fort situated on top of a rocky hill dominates Jodhpur’s skyline. A formidable structure that seems impregnable from the outside, the fort has magnificent palaces with marvellously carved panels and evocative names such as Moti Mahal and Phool Mahal . The fort offers splendid sweeping views of the city and of Umaid Bhavan Palace and museum, situated on top of the Chattar hill. Halfway up that hill lies Jaswant Thada, a white marble memorial to the erstwhile ruler, Jaswant Singh II. Jodhpur is also known as the blue city, because of the extensive use of blue in the buildings, especially in the old city. It gives the buildings a mysterious glow, and perhaps, makes its inhabitants feel cooler during the blistering hot summer. Close to Jodhpur lies Mandore, which was once the capital of the Marwar region. People flock to its gardens which have rock terraces and dark red stupas and domes. Its 18th century Hall of Heroes contains 15 figures, carved out on a single rock wall, a major tourist attraction Jodhpur is a famous antiques market. You can buy doorways, carved balconies and window frames as pleasant reminders of a city famous for its palaces, forts and brightly attired people.