Mandore Gardens
Ancient capital with cenotaphs, temples, and Hall of Heroes rock sculptures
Overview
Mandore, located 9 km north of Jodhpur, was the ancient capital of Marwar before Jodhpur was founded in 1459. Today Mandore Gardens is a popular picnic spot and historical site featuring beautiful cenotaphs (dewals) of Jodhpur rulers, the impressive Hall of Heroes and Shrine of 33 Crore Gods with rock-cut figures, temples, and expansive gardens. The royal cenotaphs are unique - built with red sandstone in traditional Rajput temple style rather than typical umbrella-shaped chhatris. The Hall of Heroes features 16 life-size figures of folk heroes and gods carved from a single rock. Mandore offers a peaceful alternative to busy Jodhpur with local families picnicking, children playing, and langur monkeys roaming the grounds.
Highlights
Royal cenotaphs - Unique temple-style dewals
Hall of Heroes - 16 rock-cut hero figures
Shrine of 33 Crore Gods with colorful sculptures
Temples and ancient ruins
Mandore Fort ruins on hill
Gardens and local picnic atmosphere
Mandore Gardens Tour
Garden Entry
Enter through main gate. Large gardens with pathways, lawns, and cenotaphs visible ahead
Royal Cenotaphs
Visit three-story red sandstone dewals. Unlike typical chhatris - temple architecture. Dedicated to various Jodhpur Maharajas
Hall of Heroes
Large structure with 16 painted rock-cut figures of Hindu deities and folk heroes. Vibrant colors, impressive scale
Shrine of 33 Crore Gods
Cave-like structure with colorful statues of Hindu gods. Slightly kitsch but interesting. Good for photos
Temple Complex
Several small temples dedicated to different deities. Some active with priests, some in ruins
Mandore Fort Ruins
Climb hill behind gardens to ancient fort ruins. Minimal remains but good views of gardens below
Gardens & Langurs
Stroll gardens, observe local families picnicking. Many langur monkeys - keep food secure!
Visiting Information
Entry Fee:
₹10 for Indians, ₹50 for foreigners. Camera ₹25
Timings:
8:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily
Recommended Duration:
1.5-2 hours
Best Time to Visit
October to March. Morning (8-11 AM) or evening (4-6 PM) to avoid heat. Weekdays less crowded
Getting There
Via Mandore Road north from city (30 min)
Public Transport:
Located 9 km north of Jodhpur city
Travel Tips
- •Combine with half-day Jodhpur itinerary - morning here, afternoon at fort
- •Best visited on weekdays - weekends crowded with local families
- •Watch for langur monkeys - friendly but can snatch food/bags
- •Mandore Fort ruins minimal - only visit if energetic for climb
- •Gardens nice for relaxation but not as spectacular as main Jodhpur sights