Things to See and Do in Jodhpur, the Blue City of Rajasthan

As we bid farewell to the enchanting days spent in Jaipur, we hopped aboard a train, eager to explore our next destination: Jodhpur, the mesmerizing blue city of Rajasthan. In this guide, we will take you through everything you need to know about what to see and do in Jodhpur, highlighting must-visit attractions along with some practical tips to enhance your experience. And don’t forget to check out the useful information at the end to help you plan your visit to Jodhpur.

It’s easy to see why Jodhpur is nicknamed the "Blue City." A sea of blue houses sprawls across the landscape, a tradition rooted in the heritage of the Brahmins, who originally painted their homes in this striking hue. Over time, the trend caught on, and now the entire city proudly dons its azure coat. Despite what some may say about Jodhpur lacking charm, we wholeheartedly disagree; we found it to be one of the most delightful cities in India, brimming with life and culture.

Tip: To truly appreciate Jodhpur, consider joining a guided tour that showcases the city's main attractions.

Wandering through the labyrinthine streets, snapping photos at every turn, and discovering local eateries serving an impressive variety of stuffed parathas is an adventure in itself. Engage with street vendors peddling fruits, scissors, and mouthwatering sweets, all while dodging cows, donkeys, and goats. Explore hidden alleys, greet inquisitive elders with a "namaste," and soak in the Mughal architecture reminiscent of Morocco. It’s the simple pleasures that bring joy!

Top Attractions in Jodhpur

1. Mehrangarh Fort

No visit to Jodhpur would be complete without a trip to the iconic Mehrangarh Fort. This impressive structure rises 120 meters above the city, demanding attention with its grand scale and architectural brilliance. The steep ascent to the fort is rewarded with breathtaking views and an exploration of its rich history.

Built over 500 years ago, this fort served as the palace for the city's royal family. Following India’s independence from British rule, the Maharajas lost their political power but retained ownership of this magnificent fort—one of Rajasthan's finest.

The entrance fee is 600 rupees, a worthwhile investment considering that much of the revenue goes towards the fort’s maintenance. Inside, you’ll find numerous halls showcasing royal artifacts, including ornate elephant saddles, weaponry, and exquisite miniature paintings. Don’t miss the "Pleasure Hall," where the Maharaja entertained his many wives in lavish surroundings!

Additionally, you can request an audioguide at the entrance, included in the ticket price, available in several languages, including Spanish, providing an in-depth understanding of the fort’s significance.

2. Jaswant Thada

Just a stone's throw from Mehrangarh lies Jaswant Thada, the memorial for Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, built with the same exquisite marble as the Taj Mahal. This serene location is perfect for a reflective moment amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. During our visit, we even had the amusing experience of being asked to take photos for a family excursion!

3. Umaid Bhawan Palace

Our initial attempt to see the Umaid Bhawan Palace was thwarted by a wedding celebration, complete with fireworks! However, we later returned to admire this colossal palace from the outside. It serves as the current Maharaja's residence and is divided into three sections: the royal living quarters, a luxury hotel, and a museum showcasing the palace’s history and architecture (entry fee: 100 rupees).

4. Mandore Garden

Located about 20 km north of Jodhpur, the Mandore Garden is a tranquil escape featuring the ruins of temples and cenotaphs from the former capital of the Marwar kingdom. Wander through the beautifully landscaped gardens, explore the intricately carved red sandstone structures, and perhaps share the space with local monkeys. This peaceful haven is free to enter and offers a unique glimpse into Rajasthan's royal past.

5. Strolling through Jodhpur

The major attractions are just the beginning. Jodhpur's vibrant central square, featuring the lively Clock Tower, is always bustling with activity. One of the city’s highlights is its spice market. Consider visiting M.V., a family-run spice shop with a rich history, now managed by the late owner's seven daughters. You’ll find an array of spices that will elevate your cooking back home.

As the day winds down, enjoy dinner at one of the rooftop restaurants like Gopal, 360 Panorama, or The Curry’s, where you can witness the city illuminated against the night sky. For an unforgettable sunset experience, head to the area around Jaswant Thada for stunning views.

With our hearts full of memories, we set off for the Thar Desert, ready for the next adventure. Have you discovered more things to see and do in Jodhpur?

Don’t forget to grab a Revolut card (with a €10 bonus) to avoid international transaction fees.

Useful Information for Your Jodhpur Visit

How to Reach Jodhpur

We traveled from Jaipur to Jodhpur by train (Sleeper class 200 INR, approximately 5.5 hours). Upon arrival, we enjoyed a complimentary pick-up to our hotel, conveniently located near the city center.

Where to Stay in Jodhpur

We stayed at the Haveli Inn Pal, but there are numerous budget options in the clock tower area. We inquired about prices at Hill View GH, which offered dormitory beds for 150 INR and doubles for 400 INR.

Mehrangarh Fort Insights

If you’re only interested in the views from the fort, you don't need to pay for entry (the ticket is necessary for accessing the palaces and pavilions). However, we highly recommend visiting the interiors, which are well worth the fee. The entrance includes an audioguide (you’ll need to leave a deposit) for 600 INR (400 INR for students), and photography is permitted.

Visiting Jaswant Thada

Entry to Jaswant Thada costs 50 INR, which includes photography. To reach Jaswant Thada from the fort, you can take a tuk-tuk for about 100 INR or enjoy a leisurely 10-minute walk.

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