Places to Visit in Jodhpur – The Blue City of India

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2 years ago

Explore the magic of Jodhpur, the majestic “Sun City” of Rajasthan with its towering forts, palaces, and colorful bazaars. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of this enchanting city with our guide to top attractions, luxurious accommodations, and mouth-watering cuisine. Book your trip to Jodhpur now for an unforgettable adventure!

About Jodhpur

Jodhpur, also known as the “Blue City” and the “Sun City,” is a historic city in the Indian state of Rajasthan. The city is famous for its stunning blue-painted buildings, magnificent forts, palaces, and temples, and rich cultural heritage. Jodhpur was founded by Rao Jodha in 1459 and has since been ruled by various Rajput dynasties. The city is situated on the edge of the Thar Desert and is surrounded by rugged hills, making it a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. The city’s vibrant markets and bazaars are filled with traditional handicrafts, textiles, and delicious street food, making it an ideal place to experience the colors and flavors of Rajasthan.

Architecture of Jodhpur

Jodhpur, also known as the “Blue City,” is home to several breathtaking examples of traditional Rajasthani architecture. The most prominent of these is the Mehrangarh Fort, which dominates the city’s skyline with its imposing walls and intricate details. The fort’s intricate carvings and expansive courtyards are a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of the past. Other notable architectural marvels in Jodhpur include Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jaswant Thada, and the Ghanta Ghar clock tower. All of these structures are must-visit attractions for anyone with an appreciation for history and architecture.

50 Places to Visit in Jodhpur

Jodhpur is a historic city in the Indian state of Rajasthan, known for its magnificent forts, palaces, temples, and gardens. Here is a list of 50 places to visit in Jodhpur:

Mehrangarh Fort: A magnificent fort with beautiful architecture and stunning views of the city.
Umaid Bhawan Palace: A lavish palace that is now a hotel, known for its intricate architecture and beautiful gardens.
Jaswant Thada: A white marble mausoleum built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, known for its intricate carvings and beautiful gardens.
Mandore Gardens: A beautiful garden that features the ruins of the ancient city of Mandore.
Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower): A landmark in Jodhpur, located in the heart of the old city and known for its bustling bazaars.
Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park: A beautiful park that showcases the native flora and fauna of the region.
Kaylana Lake: A picturesque lake surrounded by hills and known for its beautiful sunsets.
Masuria Hills Garden: A scenic garden that features beautiful flowers and fountains.
Balsamand Lake: A serene lake surrounded by gardens and a palace, perfect for a peaceful picnic.
Toorji Ka Jhalra: An ancient stepwell that is now a popular tourist attraction, known for its beautiful architecture.
Chamunda Mata Temple: A beautiful temple dedicated to the goddess Chamunda, known for its stunning architecture.
Sardar Samand Lake: A beautiful lake located in the outskirts of Jodhpur, known for its scenic views and boating facilities.
Hanwant Mahal: A beautiful palace that has been converted into a hotel, known for its beautiful architecture and luxurious amenities.
Ranisar and Padamsar Lakes: Two beautiful lakes located within the Mehrangarh Fort complex, perfect for a peaceful walk.
Zenana Mahal: A beautiful palace within the Mehrangarh Fort complex, known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
Loha Pol: An ancient gate within the Mehrangarh Fort complex, known for its beautiful architecture.
Jaswant Singh Market: A bustling bazaar known for its handicrafts, spices, and textiles.
Raj Ranchhodji Temple: A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, known for its beautiful architecture.
Umed Garden: A beautiful garden located near the Umaid Bhawan Palace, perfect for a peaceful walk.
Chamunda Devi Temple: A beautiful temple dedicated to the goddess Chamunda, located on a hilltop.
Chamunda Mata Mandir: Another beautiful temple dedicated to the goddess Chamunda, known for its beautiful architecture.
Bishnoi Village: A scenic village located on the outskirts of Jodhpur, known for its beautiful scenery and wildlife.
Siddhnath Shiv Temple: A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its beautiful architecture.
Baba Ramdev Temple: A popular temple dedicated to the folk deity Baba Ramdev.
Ashapura Mata Mandir: A beautiful temple dedicated to the goddess Ashapura, known for its beautiful architecture.
Sachiya Mata Temple: A beautiful temple dedicated to the goddess Sachiya Mata, known for its beautiful architecture.
Santoshi Mata Temple: A beautiful temple dedicated to the goddess Santoshi Mata, known for its beautiful architecture.
Bijolai Palace: A beautiful palace that has been converted into a hotel, known for its beautiful architecture and luxurious amenities.
Kailana Temple: A beautiful temple located near the Kaylana Lake, known for its beautiful architecture.
Mahamandir Temple: A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord
Raj Ranchhodji Temple
Khejarla Fort
Om Banna Temple
Achal Nath Shivalaya
Shri Ganesh Temple
Pal Balaji Temple
Dauji Ki Haveli
Karni Mata Temple
Baba Ramdeo Temple
Surya Temple
Shri Sidheshwar Mahadev Temple
Achal Nath Temple
Parsvanath Temple
Sur Sagar Lake
Khimsar Fort
Guda Bishnoi Village
Luni Fort
Osian Temple
Gyan Bhandar
Om Banna Ki Tekri

Weather and Best time to visit Jodhpur

Jodhpur is located in the Thar Desert and has a hot semi-arid climate. The summers in Jodhpur are hot and dry with temperatures ranging from 36°C to 42°C. The monsoon season lasts from July to September and brings occasional heavy rainfall, which can make sightseeing difficult. The winters are mild and pleasant with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C.

The best time to visit Jodhpur is from October to March when the weather is mild and pleasant, and the city is in full bloom. The temperatures are ideal for outdoor activities, and there are several festivals and events that take place during this time, including the Marwar Festival, the Rajasthan International Folk Festival, and the Jodhpur International Kite Festival. If you plan to visit during this time, it’s important to book your accommodations and activities in advance, as this is the peak tourist season in Jodhpur.

If you don’t mind the heat, you can also visit Jodhpur during the summer months from April to June, but you should be prepared for hot temperatures and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Overall, the best time to visit Jodhpur is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and there are many cultural events and festivals to experience.

How To Reach Jodhpur

Jodhpur is a popular tourist destination in Rajasthan, and it is well connected by air, rail, and road. Here are the different modes of transportation that you can use to reach Jodhpur:

By Air: Jodhpur has its own airport, the Jodhpur Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Udaipur. You can take a flight to Jodhpur and then hire a taxi or take a bus to reach your destination.
By Train: Jodhpur is well-connected to major cities in India by train. The city has its own railway station, the Jodhpur Junction, which is a major railway station on the Delhi-Jaipur-Ahmedabad-Mumbai line. There are several trains that run between Jodhpur and other major cities in India.
By Road: Jodhpur is well-connected by road to major cities in Rajasthan and neighboring states. You can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Jodhpur from nearby cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, and Delhi.

Once you reach Jodhpur, you can hire a taxi or take public transport to reach your destination. The city has a well-developed transport system with buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws available for local travel.

Accommodation options in Jodhpur

Jodhpur is a popular tourist destination, and there are several accommodation options available for travelers. Here are some of the most popular accommodation options in Jodhpur:

Heritage Hotels: Jodhpur has several heritage hotels that offer a unique experience to travelers. These hotels are typically renovated palaces, havelis, and forts that have been converted into hotels. Some of the popular heritage hotels in Jodhpur include Umaid Bhawan Palace, Ajit Bhawan, and Ranbanka Palace.
Luxury Hotels: Jodhpur has several luxury hotels that offer a comfortable stay with modern amenities. Some of the popular luxury hotels in Jodhpur include Vivanta by Taj – Hari Mahal, Radisson Jodhpur, and WelcomHotel Jodhpur.
Budget Hotels: Jodhpur has several budget hotels and guesthouses that offer a comfortable stay at an affordable price. Some of the popular budget hotels in Jodhpur include Haveli Inn Pal, Nirvana Home, and Kesar Heritage.
Homestays: Jodhpur has several homestays where travelers can stay with a local family and experience the local culture and cuisine. Some of the popular homestays in Jodhpur include Mihir Garh, Ratan Vilas, and Chhotaram Prajapat’s Homestay.
Hostels: Jodhpur has several hostels that offer affordable accommodation for solo travelers and backpackers. Some of the popular hostels in Jodhpur include Zostel Jodhpur, Hostel La Vie, and Moustache Jodhpur.

Overall, Jodhpur offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. It’s recommended to book your accommodations in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

Top 10 Hotels to stay in Jodhpur based on user reviews and ratings:

Umaid Bhawan Palace – This heritage hotel is considered to be one of the best hotels in Jodhpur, with luxurious rooms, excellent service, and beautiful grounds. It has a rating of 4.9 out of 5 on TripAdvisor.
RAAS Jodhpur – This luxury hotel offers stunning views of the Mehrangarh Fort and has a modern design that blends with the traditional architecture of Jodhpur. It has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 on TripAdvisor.
Ajit Bhawan – This heritage hotel is known for its beautiful gardens, luxurious rooms, and excellent service. It has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 on TripAdvisor.
Vivanta by Taj – Hari Mahal – This luxury hotel offers a beautiful pool, luxurious rooms, and excellent dining options. It has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 on TripAdvisor.
Radisson Jodhpur – This luxury hotel offers modern amenities, excellent service, and comfortable rooms. It has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 on TripAdvisor.
Indana Palace – This luxury hotel offers spacious rooms, excellent dining options, and a beautiful pool. It has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 on TripAdvisor.
The Fern Residency – This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms, excellent service, and a convenient location. It has a rating of 4.2 out of 5 on TripAdvisor.
Krishna Prakash Heritage Haveli – This heritage hotel is known for its beautiful architecture, comfortable rooms, and excellent service. It has a rating of 4.1 out of 5 on TripAdvisor.
Devi Bhawan – This heritage hotel offers comfortable rooms, beautiful gardens, and excellent service. It has a rating of 4.0 out of 5 on TripAdvisor.
Pal Haveli – This heritage hotel is known for its beautiful architecture, comfortable rooms, and excellent service. It has a rating of 3.9 out of 5 on TripAdvisor.

Overall, Jodhpur offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. These hotels have received positive reviews from travelers and are recommended for a comfortable and enjoyable stay in Jodhpur.

Travel Tips To know Before Your Visit to Jodhpur

Here are some travel tips that you should know before your trip to Jodhpur:

Dress appropriately: Jodhpur is a conservative city, and it’s important to dress appropriately, especially when visiting temples and other religious sites. It’s recommended to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
Carry cash: While many places in Jodhpur accept credit and debit cards, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash, especially when visiting local markets and street vendors.
Stay hydrated: Jodhpur can get quite hot, especially during the summer months. Make sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other fluids.
Plan ahead: Jodhpur is a popular tourist destination, and it’s recommended to plan ahead and book your accommodations, tours, and transportation in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.
Be respectful: Jodhpur is a city with a rich culture and history, and it’s important to be respectful of the local customs and traditions. Make sure to ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially women and children.
Be cautious when using transportation: It’s recommended to use only licensed taxis and avoid hailing taxis from the street. If possible, book your transportation in advance through a reputable service.
Try the local cuisine: Jodhpur is known for its delicious cuisine, and it’s recommended to try the local dishes such as dal baati churma, mirchi bada, and pyaaz kachori.
Be mindful of your belongings: Like any tourist destination, it’s important to be mindful of your belongings and keep them safe. Make sure to keep your valuables in a safe place, especially when visiting crowded places.

By following these travel tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Jodhpur and experience the rich culture and history of this beautiful city.

Travel Mistakes to Avoid in Jodhpur

Here are some travel mistakes to avoid in Jodhpur:

Underestimating the sun: Jodhpur is known for its hot and sunny climate. Make sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, and lightweight clothing to protect yourself from the sun.
Not respecting local customs: Jodhpur has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. For example, remove your shoes before entering a temple and dress modestly.
Not carrying cash: While some establishments in Jodhpur accept credit cards, it’s still a good idea to carry some cash with you, especially when visiting street vendors or local markets.
Not booking in advance: Jodhpur is a popular tourist destination, and it’s recommended to book accommodations, tours, and transportation in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
Not trying local cuisine: Jodhpur is known for its delicious food, and it’s a mistake to not try the local cuisine. Be adventurous and try some of the local dishes, such as dal baati churma, mirchi bada, and pyaaz kachori.
Not bargaining: Bargaining is common in local markets in Jodhpur, and it’s a mistake to pay the first price offered to you. Take some time to negotiate a fair price for goods and services.
Not checking reviews: Before booking accommodations, tours, or transportation, make sure to check online reviews and ratings. This can help you avoid scams, overpriced services, and unreliable providers.

By avoiding these travel mistakes, you can have a more enjoyable and stress-free trip to Jodhpur and make the most of your time in this beautiful city.

Best Places for Shopping in Jodhpur

Jodhpur is known for its traditional handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry, and there are several markets and bazaars in the city where you can shop for these items. Here are some of the best places for shopping in Jodhpur:

Clock Tower Market: This bustling market in the heart of the old city is famous for its spices, textiles, and handicrafts. You can find everything from colorful bangles to hand-embroidered sarees.
Sadar Market: This is another popular market in Jodhpur, where you can shop for Rajasthani textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs. You can also find some great street food in the area.
Nai Sarak: This market is known for its antique shops, where you can find old furniture, brassware, and other decorative items. You can also find some great books and stationery in the area.
Mochi Bazaar: This is a market for shoes, and you can find everything from traditional juttis to trendy sandals. The market is located in the old city and is a must-visit for shoe lovers.
Kapra Bazaar: This market is famous for its textiles, and you can find a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, silk, and linen. You can also get clothes stitched to your size.
Sojati Gate Market: This market is famous for its hand-block printed textiles, and you can find everything from bedsheets to tablecloths. The market is located near the Sojati Gate, and it’s worth a visit for the vibrant textiles and fabrics.
Tripolia Market: This market is famous for its handicrafts and silver jewelry. You can find everything from colorful puppets to intricately designed silver bracelets.

By visiting these markets and bazaars, you can experience the vibrant culture and heritage of Jodhpur and take home some beautiful souvenirs and gifts.

Food To Eat in Jodhpur

Jodhpur is known for its delicious and unique cuisine, which has its own distinct flavor and style. Here are some of the must-try dishes in Jodhpur:

Dal Baati Churma: This is the most famous dish of Jodhpur and Rajasthan. It consists of lentils cooked with a blend of spices, served with crispy wheat balls (baati) and sweet crushed wheat dessert (churma).
Mirchi Bada: This is a popular street food in Jodhpur, made by stuffing green chilies with potato or onion and then deep-frying them in gram flour batter.
Pyaaz Kachori: This is a deep-fried pastry filled with spiced onion mixture, and it’s a favorite breakfast or snack of the locals.
Ghevar: This is a popular Rajasthani sweet made with flour, ghee, and sugar syrup, and it’s often served during festivals and special occasions.
Laal Maas: This is a spicy meat curry made with lamb or mutton, and it’s a must-try for non-vegetarians.
Ker Sangri: This is a traditional Rajasthani vegetable dish made with dried desert beans and capers, and it’s often served with roti or rice.
Kadi Kachori: This is a unique combination of tangy yogurt curry and deep-fried kachori, and it’s a popular snack in Jodhpur.
Mohan Maas: This is a royal delicacy made with tender meat cooked in a rich gravy of spices and milk, and it’s often served during special occasions.

These are just a few of the many delicious dishes you can try in Jodhpur. Make sure to also try the street food and sweets, which are some of the best in the country.

Things You can Buy as a Tourist

Jodhpur is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional handicrafts. Here are some of the things you should consider buying as a tourist in Jodhpur:

Textiles: Jodhpur is famous for its textiles, including tie-dyed and hand-block printed fabrics, Bandhani, and embroidered sarees, and Rajasthani quilted blankets.
Jewelry: The city is renowned for its traditional jewelry, including Kundan and Meenakari work, silver and gold ornaments, and gemstone-studded pieces.
Handicrafts: Jodhpur is famous for its handicrafts, such as wooden furniture, hand-painted pottery, handcrafted leather shoes and bags, hand-embroidered bed covers, and cushion covers.
Spices: You can buy a variety of spices from the Clock Tower market, including the famous Jodhpuri red chili powder, cumin seeds, coriander, and garam masala.
Ayurvedic Products: Jodhpur is also famous for its Ayurvedic and herbal products, including oils, soaps, and creams made from natural ingredients.
Paintings: The city has a rich history of painting, and you can find beautiful miniature paintings and traditional Rajasthani art in the bazaars and galleries.
Musical Instruments: Jodhpur is known for its music, and you can buy traditional instruments such as the dholak, the sarangi, and the harmonium in the local markets.

By buying these items, you can take a piece of Jodhpur’s rich heritage and culture with you as a souvenir or gift for your loved ones.

Nightlife in Jodhpur

Jodhpur is not particularly known for its nightlife, as it is a city that is deeply rooted in its culture and traditions. However, there are a few options for those who are looking for some after-dark activities. Here are some suggestions:

Visit the Mehrangarh Fort: The fort is beautifully illuminated at night, and you can take a guided tour to learn about its history and enjoy the panoramic views of the city from the top.
Watch a Cultural Show: Many hotels and cultural centers organize traditional Rajasthani folk dance and music performances in the evenings. These shows offer a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage and culture.
Enjoy a Rooftop Dinner: Many restaurants in Jodhpur have rooftop seating areas that offer stunning views of the city and its landmarks, such as the Mehrangarh Fort and Umaid Bhawan Palace. You can enjoy a meal with friends or family while soaking in the ambiance of the city at night.
Visit the Night Market: The Clock Tower market is bustling with activity during the day, but it also comes alive at night. You can browse through the colorful stalls and enjoy street food while mingling with the locals.
Bar Hopping: There are a few bars and lounges in the city, but they usually close early. However, you can still enjoy a few drinks and some music with friends in a relaxed setting.

Overall, while Jodhpur may not be a hub for nightlife, there are still some activities to enjoy in the evenings while taking in the city’s unique ambiance.

Activities and Things to do in Jodhpur

Jodhpur, also known as the “Blue City” and “Sun City,” has many exciting activities and things to do for travelers. Here are some of the best things to do in Jodhpur:

Visit Mehrangarh Fort: This 15th-century fort is one of the most iconic landmarks of Jodhpur. You can explore the magnificent palace complex, visit the museum, and enjoy the panoramic views of the city from the top of the fort.
Explore the Old City: The Old City of Jodhpur is a maze of narrow lanes and alleyways, dotted with colorful homes and bazaars. You can take a walking tour to explore the vibrant markets and experience the local way of life.
Take a Zip Lining Tour: You can get an adrenaline rush by taking a zip lining tour at the Mehrangarh Fort. The tour takes you through six zip lines, offering spectacular views of the fort and the city.
Visit Umaid Bhawan Palace: This grand palace was built in the early 20th century and is now a heritage hotel and museum. You can take a guided tour to learn about the palace’s history and see its impressive architecture.
Try Local Cuisine: Jodhpur is famous for its rich and flavorful cuisine, and there are many street food stalls and restaurants where you can try local specialties like mirchi vada, makhaniya lassi, and pyaaz kachori.
Take a Village Safari: You can take a jeep or camel ride to explore the rural villages around Jodhpur, interact with the locals, and learn about their culture and way of life.
Attend a Rajasthani Folk Music and Dance Performance: Many hotels and cultural centers organize traditional Rajasthani folk music and dance performances, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage and culture.

These are just a few of the many activities and things to do in Jodhpur. The city has something for everyone, from history and culture to adventure and relaxation.

Lesser Known facts about Jodhpur

Jodhpur is a city rich in history, culture, and tradition. Here are some lesser-known facts about Jodhpur that might interest you:

The city was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, the Rajput chief of the Rathore clan. It was named after him and was once the capital of the Marwar Kingdom.
The city is also known as the “Sun City” because it enjoys bright, sunny weather throughout the year.
The blue color that you see in many of the buildings in the old city of Jodhpur is due to the use of indigo dye, which was traditionally used to color homes of the Brahmin caste.
Jodhpur is famous for its unique style of architecture, which is a blend of Rajput, Mughal, and European styles. The city has several magnificent palaces and forts, including the Mehrangarh Fort and the Umaid Bhawan Palace.
Jodhpur is home to one of the largest private residences in the world, the Umaid Bhawan Palace, which is now a luxury hotel.
The city is known for its handicrafts, including textiles, pottery, and leather goods. Jodhpuri textiles are particularly famous for their vibrant colors and intricate designs.
Jodhpur has a unique festival called the Marwar Festival, which is held every year in October. The festival celebrates the region’s rich cultural heritage and features music, dance, and traditional dress.

These are just a few of the lesser-known facts about Jodhpur. The city has a rich and fascinating history, and there is always something new to discover.

FAQ About Jodhpur

Here are some frequently asked questions about Jodhpur:

What is the best time to visit Jodhpur?

The best time to visit Jodhpur is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and cool.

How to reach Jodhpur?

Jodhpur is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Jodhpur Airport, and the city has two railway stations, Jodhpur Junction and Bhagat Ki Kothi.

What are the must-visit places in Jodhpur?

Some of the must-visit places in Jodhpur are Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada, Umaid Bhawan Palace, and the Clock Tower Market.

What are the best activities to do in Jodhpur?

Some of the best activities to do in Jodhpur are visiting Mehrangarh Fort, exploring the old city, taking a zip-lining tour, trying local cuisine, and attending a Rajasthani folk music and dance performance.

What is the local cuisine of Jodhpur?

Jodhpur is known for its rich and flavorful cuisine, with specialties like mirchi vada, makhaniya lassi, and pyaaz kachori.

What are some good places for shopping in Jodhpur?

Some good places for shopping in Jodhpur are the Clock Tower Market, Sardar Market, and the Mochi Bazaar.

Is Jodhpur safe for tourists?

Jodhpur is generally safe for tourists, but it is always advisable to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

What are some lesser-known facts about Jodhpur?

Some lesser-known facts about Jodhpur are that it is also known as the “Blue City” due to the use of indigo dye, and that it is home to one of the largest private residences in the world, the Umaid Bhawan Palace.