Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park — Attraction in Jodhpur

Jodhpur Welded Tuff here has been declared the National Geological Monuments of Indiaby the Geological Survey of India (GSI), for their protection, maintenance, promotion and enhancement of geoturism.The volcanic rocks at Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park were formed somewhere between 745 and 680 million years ago. The volcanic formations are chiefly rhyolite, with welded tuff, and breccia found in some areas. There is a gully passing through the park (an old aqueduct or canal to carry rainwater from a wider catchment in the north to Padamsar lake at the base of the fort), where breccia is visible today. Also seen are rocks with large to intermediate crystal sizes and from fine textured tuff to large-grained (porphyritic) rhyolite. The Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park has attempted both architectural and ecological restoration. The Visitors Centre is housed in Singhoria Pol, a 17th-century gateway into Jodpur city, which had fallen into ruins and disrepair. The gateway was restored and the Visitors Centre, completed in February 2011, has an Interpretation Gallery about the desert, plants, and history, integrated into the passages and rooms over and around the gate. The historic city wall that had crumbled in places was also restored, which assisted in protecting the area from grazing livestock during ecological restoration.

Ecological restoration was carried out to remove invasive alien plants and bring back the original desert and arid land vegetation of the region. The park area was earlier overrun by Prosopis juliflora (local name baavlia), an invasive, thorny shrub introduced from Central America almost a century ago. The Prosopis juliflora was carefully removed from the volcanic rocks with the help of local Khandwaliya people, expert in rock chiseling. The park now has around 250 species of native plants. A small 'xeriscape' or 'Xeri garden' at the Visitor's Centre has been created to display a range of xeric and rocky microhabitats, each with several characteristic native plant species. The restoration or rewilding project has been spearheaded by Pradip Krishen, a filmmaker who renounced filmmaking due to corruption in the industry. Mr. Krishen turned to gardening and environmental conservation, serving in this way to rejuvenate the deteriorating Indian landscape...

10/10! Absolutely magnificent! Such a beautiful place! Such nice people! We did not know such a place even existed. Even the hotel people did not know. But boy, would we have missed out. It is located very close to Mehrangarh fort. There are multiple boards and the directions are well labelled. On getting there there is a small Rock collection. The tickets are priced at 100 rupees per person for the trails and 200 for the lake bird watching. Guides also cost 200. I would 100% definitely ten on ten recommend that you invest that 200. The naturalists are so well informed. It is an interesting and invigorating journey. It is quite different from what are idea of Jodhpur and the Thar desert is. There are around 200 species of birds and lots of small mammals along with the flora found in the desert. Try to go early in the morning rather than the evening. The timings are from 8 in the summer and 7 in the winter till 5:30 p.m. however you can visit in an earlier by booking in advance. I would definitely recommend that you do that because it is so much more amazing for bird watching. We visited around 9:00 a.m. and still were able to spot many species of birds, a mongoose, hares an even found a porcupine quill. There are multiple trails you can take. All remember to wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Carry a fair amount of water, as there are no such facilities inside the park. Also make sure that you are in good shape, this is not a place recommended for senior citizens or for specially abled people. However if you can do it climbing The hills affords you beautiful views of Mehrangarh. Keep in mind that this is a natural sanctuary or not a zoo or an exhibit. It is a very interesting journey with lots of things to do including for families and particularly children. If you go to Jodhpur please go here, trust me if you don't there's a lot you will miss out on. In short carry lots of water sunscreen, where comfortable shoes hats and clothes, try to visit as early as you can, definitely get a naturalist, they are very knowledgeable and will make the journey 100 times more interesting. 1000/10...

Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park, located at the foot of the majestic Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, is a remarkable blend of natural beauty and ecological restoration. This 70-acre park, which was opened to the public in 2006, is dedicated to the conservation and revival of the unique desert ecosystem of the region. The park offers visitors an opportunity to explore the arid landscape and witness the remarkable efforts made to restore native vegetation to the rocky desert terrain.

The park is a haven for nature lovers, showcasing a wide variety of indigenous flora, including hardy shrubs, trees, and plants that have adapted to the harsh desert climate. One of the highlights is the diverse array of cacti and succulents, which thrive in the rocky soil. The park’s natural beauty is further enhanced by its geological formations, with exposed rocks and cliffs offering a fascinating glimpse into the region's history.

Visitors can enjoy walking along well-maintained trails that wind through the park, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and Mehrangarh Fort above. The park also provides an informative experience, with interpretive signs and boards explaining the flora, fauna, and geology of the area. There is a sense of tranquility here, making it an ideal place for a peaceful escape or a nature walk.

Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park is perfect for those looking to experience the rugged beauty of Rajasthan’s desert landscape, while also learning about the region’s ecological efforts. Whether you're interested in nature, photography, or simply taking in the unique surroundings, this park is a must-visit...