town, central Rajasthan (Rājasthān) state, northwestern India. Located in the Great Indian (Thar) Desert (Thar Desert), Phalodi is an old caravan centre, believed to have been founded in the 15th century. Architectural monuments include a fort and palaces. The town is connected by road and rail with Jodhpur and is a trade centre for camels, sheep, hides, and salt. Local manufactures include metal utensils, camel-hair mats, and pottery. Just north lies the Phalodi salt source, a large saline depression in the desert. Camels are bred nearby. Pop. (2001) 44,782.