Are you ready to embark on a journey to one of India’s most captivating cities? A destination that boasts a rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes? Look no further than Jodhpur – a city that will leave you spellbound with its beauty and charm. Keep reading to discover the hidden gems, must-see attractions, and unforgettable experiences waiting for you in this enchanting city. Here are the best things to do in Jodhpur!
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What is Jodhpur, the Blue City?
Jodhpur is a vibrant, historic city located in the northwestern Indian state of Rajasthan. Known as the “Blue City” due to the many blue-painted houses in the old town, Jodhpur is a fascinating destination that offers visitors a unique blend of culture, history, and modernity. From stunning palaces and forts to bustling bazaars and delicious cuisine, Jodhpur has something for everyone.
Understanding the Blue City
Jodhpur town is organized into several distinct areas, each with its own unique character and landmarks. At the top of the city, towering over everything else, sits the Mehrangarh Fort – the crown jewel of Jodhpur. Just below the fort, but still overlooking modern Jodhpur, lies the old town. This enchanting neighborhood is one of the most fascinating areas of Jodhpur, with its iconic blue-painted houses and winding streets.
On a nearby hill, you’ll find the main temple of Jodhpur, the Jaswant Thada – a stunning white marble cenotaph surrounded by lush gardens. And further down, at the heart of the town’s bustling bazaars, stands the clock tower – an instantly recognizable landmark that draws visitors from all over the world.
Jodhpur History
Jodhpur has a rich history that dates back over 500 years. The city was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, the ruler of the Rathore clan. Over the centuries, Jodhpur became a major center of trade and commerce, and its rulers built many magnificent palaces, forts, and temples.
Today, Jodhpur is a hub of Rajasthani culture, known for its colorful textiles, intricate handicrafts, and lively folk music and dance.
How to reach Jodhpur
Jodhpur is located roughly halfway between the cities of Jaisalmer, Ajmer, and Udaipur, making it a convenient stop for those exploring Rajasthan. The city is also within easy reach of Jaipur, and can be easily accessed by bus or private car from any of these locations.
In addition, Jodhpur is well-connected by rail, with regular train services available from Jaisalmer, Jaipur, Haridwar, and Bikaner.
The train is the most convenient and affordable option, with tickets costing as low as 210 INR ($2.50 USD) for a 5-hours ride from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur. You can check trains from your location to Jodhpur on IRCTC, while you can read everything about trains in India on our dedicated post.
A bus ticket for the same Jaisalmer-Jodhpur ride costs about 350 INR ($4.20 USD). Check buses to Jodhpur from any location on redbus.
For the same route by private car expect to pay around 4000 INR (roughly $50 USD),
Best things to do in Jodhpur, the Blue City
Jodhpur is a city that is rich with history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are the main things to do in the Blue City:
1) Walk around the Old Town
The old town of Jodhpur is located at the base of Mehrangarh Fort and is known for its narrow winding streets, blue-painted houses, and bustling bazaars. This area is home to many historic buildings and landmarks, including the clock tower, Ghanta Ghar, and the Sardar Market.
The blue walls of the old town of Jodhpur are a defining feature of the city and are one of the reasons why Jodhpur is often called the “Blue City”. The blue color is believed to have originated from the Brahmin caste, who painted their houses blue to distinguish themselves from other castes. Over time, the practice of painting houses blue spread to other parts of the city, and today, many of the buildings in the old town are painted blue.
There are also some street art initiatives in the city that aim to beautify public spaces and promote social messages. One such initiative is the “Jodhpur Rangmanch”, which is a community-driven project that brings together artists and locals to create murals and street art.
2) Explore the Mehrangarh Fort
The Mehrangarh Fort was built in 1460 by Rao Jodha, the founder of Jodhpur. The fort’s walls are up to 36 meters high and 21 meters wide, making it one of the most impressive fortresses in India. The fort complex houses seven gates, several palaces, and a museum that showcases the history and culture of Jodhpur.
Without doubts, the Mehrangarh Fort is the most iconic landmarks in Jodhpur and it dominates the city as it’s located on a rocky hill above the old town. The fort is one of the largest in India.
3) Visit Jaswant Thada
The Jaswant Thada is an intricately carved marble monument that was built in 1899. The monument was built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II and is still used by the royal family for cremation ceremonies. The gardens surrounding the monument are filled with lush greenery and provide a peaceful escape from the bustle of the city.
4) Umaid Bhawan Palace
The Umaid Bhawan Palace was built between 1928 and 1943 and is considered one of the last great palaces of India. The palace was built to provide employment to the local population during a period of famine and is a testament to the vision of Maharaja Umaid Singh.
The palace features a blend of architectural styles, including Art Deco and Indian classical, and is surrounded by 26 acres of lush gardens.
5) Ghanta Ghar
Ghanta Ghar, also known as the clock tower, was built by Maharaja Sardar Singh in 1911 and is a prominent landmark in Jodhpur’s old town.
The tower’s clock was imported from England, and its mechanism still runs on a mechanical system. The bazaar surrounding the tower is a great place to sample local street food, including chaat and samosas. You can also climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city.
6) Mandore Gardens
The Mandore Gardens were once the capital of the Marwar Kingdom before Jodhpur became the capital in the 15th century. The gardens are home to several temples and memorials, including the Hall of Heroes, which showcases the statues of Rajput warriors and Hindu deities. The gardens are also famous for their unique architecture, which is a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles.
Be aware of the many monkeys however, as they tend to be quite aggressive if you get too close or too confident with them.
7) Toorji Ka Jhalra Bavdi (Stepwell)
Toorji Ka Jhalra Bavdi, also known as Toorji’s Step Well, is a historic stepwell located in the old town of Jodhpur. The stepwell was built in the 18th century by a queen of Maharaja Abhay Singh, and it served as a source of water for the local community.
The stepwell is a beautiful example of Rajasthani architecture, with intricate carvings and detailed stonework. The stepwell has a series of steps that lead down to the water level, and it is surrounded by a series of arches that provide shade and shelter from the sun.
In recent years, Toorji Ka Jhalra Bavdi has undergone extensive restoration work, and it has become a popular tourist attraction in Jodhpur.
8) Hathiya Bhakar Temple and Viewpoint
The Hathiya Bhakar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be several centuries old. The temple is located on top of a hill next to the Mehrangarh Fort. Climb it up to reach this stunning viewpoint and enjoy panoramic views of the desert and the city below.
9) Chandpole Gate
Chandpole Gate is one of Jodhpur’s main landmarks as it’s located in the old city of Jodhpur, on the opposite side of the fort.
The gate was originally built to serve as an entrance to the old city of Jodhpur and was used as a trading hub for spices, textiles, and other goods. Today, the area around the gate is a bustling marketplace, with vendors selling a variety of goods, including colorful textiles, handicrafts, and jewelry.
This area is widely regarded as one of the most authentic parts of Jodhpur, with a higher concentration of locals going about their daily lives and fewer tourists compared to other areas.
More unusual things to do in Jodhpur:
- Zip-line over Mehrangarh Fort: For those seeking an adrenaline rush, a zip-line tour over Mehrangarh Fort is a must-do activity. The tour takes visitors through six zip-line stations and offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding hills.
- Explore the Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park: This unique nature preserve is located near Mehrangarh Fort and is home to a variety of desert flora and fauna. Visitors can hike through the park’s trails, which offer stunning views of the fort and the city.
- Visit the Bishnoi Villages: The Bishnoi people are a community of environmentalists who live in the desert surrounding Jodhpur. Visitors can take a tour of their villages and learn about their unique way of life and their commitment to preserving the natural environment.
- Try Rajasthani cuisine: Jodhpur is known for its delicious Rajasthani cuisine, which is rich in spices and flavors. Visitors can try local specialties like dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and ker sangri.
- Attend the Marwar Festival: The Marwar Festival is a popular cultural event that takes place in Jodhpur in October. The festival features traditional music and dance performances, camel races, and other cultural activities.
Where to stay in Jodhpur
When it comes to choosing where to stay in Jodhpur, there are several options to consider. While the old town may seem like an attractive choice for its charm and historic character, it’s important to note that its streets are quite dirty. In addition, tuk-tuks are not be able to reach the upper part of the old town, meaning you’ll have to walk uphill every time you want to get to your room.
That being said, the old town does offer some stunning views and a unique cultural experience. We stayed there and we loved our stay, but we thought it was important to mention these 2 downsides
If you’re looking for a more convenient and comfortable stay, the area near the clock tower may be a better choice, with the best options located between the clock tower and the old town. This location is more accessible by tuk-tuk and is close to many restaurants, shops, and other amenities. Staying near the clock tower also offers great views of Mehrangarh Fort and is a good option for those who want to be in the heart of the city.
Also, opt for an accommodation with a nice rooftop terrace / bar, you won’t regret it!
Best time to visit Jodhpur
The best time to visit Jodhpur is during the winter season, from November to February. During this time, the weather is nice with temperatures ranging from 10 to 24°C (50 to 75°F), making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The winter season is generally mild and pleasant, with cool breezes and clear skies.
The monsoon season in Jodhpur starts in July and lasts until September. During this time, the city receives some rainfall, which helps to cool down the temperature and provide some relief from the summer heat. However, the rainfall is often unevenly distributed and can result in floods in some parts of the city.
Visiting Jodhpur during the summer season, from March to June, can be challenging due to the extreme heat, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F).
Is Jodhpur worth visiting?
Absolutely! Jodhpur boasts many unique traits that make it one of the most fascinating destinations in the country. We included Jodhpur on our itinerary between the cities of Jaisalmer and Udaipur, and we loved it.
Also, by taking this route we managed to visit the stunning Ranakpur Temple, located just 3h from Jodhpur.
How long should you stay in the Blue City?
We recommend spending at least 2 full days in Jodhpur in order to see most of the things this city has to offer.
Jodhpur was best and that s saying something as travelled solo then joined 2 smallish groups.. slow travel is best and I knew after Jodhpur nothing would ever be quite so magical