Mandore Gardens

Before Jodhpur, there was Mandore — the ancient capital of the Marwar region, now a green garden complex on the city's northern edge. Shaded by trees and alive with monkeys and birds, it's a relaxed, atmospheric escape from the busy old city.

The gardens are famous for their devals — soaring, temple-like royal cenotaphs built in a distinctive dark stone, quite unlike the domed chhatris found elsewhere in Rajasthan. The 'Hall of Heroes', with its brightly painted figures of folk deities carved from rock, adds to the site's character.

• ›The towering temple-style royal cenotaphs (devals).
• ›The Hall of Heroes and its painted rock-cut figures.
• ›The peaceful, tree-shaded gardens.

Watch for monkeys around the gardens. It's a pleasant, uncrowded half-day option away from Jodhpur's main sights.