Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park

Wrapping around the base of Mehrangarh Fort, the 72-hectare Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park was created to restore the native Thar Desert ecosystem that had been smothered by invasive Vilayati Kikar (mesquite) for decades. The rewilding project — launched in 2006 — has been one of Rajasthan's most successful urban ecological initiatives.

Today the park contains over 80 species of native desert plants, dozens of bird species, and reptiles that have returned naturally as the habitat recovered. Walking trails wind through rocky outcrops with views up to the fort walls. The vantage point from inside the park — looking up at the sheer sandstone cliffs of Mehrangarh from directly below — is dramatically different from any of the tourist viewpoints above.

The park is particularly worthwhile for birders visiting between November and February, when migratory species join the resident populations. The early morning light on the fort walls, seen from the park trails, is among the best photography in Jodhpur.

Tips for Visiting

• →Entry fee is modest — well worth it for the fort-base perspective
• →Binoculars are useful for birding — the park is excellent in winter (November–February)
• →The park opens at sunrise and is at its best in the early morning light