Edited 01 March 2023 in Culture & Heritage

Ten reasons why you need to visit Jodhpur, Blue City

Situated in the heart of the royal state of Rajasthan, Jodhpur is a beautiful city that bewitches travellers with its heritage and vibrancy. Flaunting a rich history dating back to A.D. 1459, Jodhpur was founded by Rao Jodha, the erstwhile chief of the Rathore clan. In the past, it has served as the capital of the Kingdom of Marwar as well as the seat of the princely state of Jodhpur.

Set in the scenic landscape of the Thar Desert, Jodhpur never disappoints those looking for an unforgettable sightseeing experience. Featuring magnificent palaces, majestic forts, ancient temples, grand havelis, and fascinating museums, the city is dotted with a myriad of incredible tourist attractions. It is popularly referred to as the Blue City since many of the structures are blue in colour - making it a sight to behold, especially an aerial view. With its striking architecture, natural beauty, warm hospitality, and colourful culture, there is no shortage of reasons to visit this remarkable city.

So, if you are planning or seeking to plan a vacation, here are 10 reasons why Jodhpur is the perfect destination for your trip.

1. Visit the mesmerising Mehrangarh Fort

The tall and imposing Mehrangarh Fort located on a hilltop is surrounded by the ‘Blue City. It was built by the Rajput ruler Rao Jodha in 1459. Today, it has been transformed into a museum and serves as a reminder of the formidable past of Jodhpur. With its grand palace courtyards, colour-stained glass windows, and intricate balconies, you can almost picture the rich history in front of you.

Many festivals are also celebrated with grandeur in this fort, including Dussehra, or the Rajasthan International Folk festival which is a celebration of 5 days in October. If you prefer to dine with a view, the open-air Chokelao Restaurant in the Chokelao Bagh is a must-visit.

The Mehrangarh Museum has over 15,000 memorabilia and artefacts belonging to the royal families.

You can explore various galleries in the museum-like:

The Elephant Howdah Gallery displays the 18th and 19th-century seats used for riding the elephants. You can also find the silver Howdah which was presented to Maharaja Jaswant Singh by Shah Jahan.

The Daulat Khana Gallery houses some of the most precious antiques including memorabilia of the Mughal emperor Akbar.

The Turban Gallery is where you can see the different kinds of turbans worn by people of various communities in Rajasthan on different festivals and occasions.

The Painting Gallery has an incredible collection of fine arts, both made in the previous centuries and artwork from the Marwar School.

The Textile Gallery has a precious collection of hand-stitched carpets, tent fabrics, ancient garments used in those periods, and other such decorative yet lavish furnishings.

The Palanquin Gallery has a spectacular accumulation of various unique palanquins including Pinjas (the covered palanquins) and the Rajat (lotus-shaped palanquins)

Other places to explore inside the Mehrangarh Fort are:

The Sheesh Mahal or the Hall of Mirrors, which was previously Maharaja Ajit Singh's bedroom, has intricate decorations and glasswork.
The Phul Mahal or The Palace of Flowers, which used to serve as a reception room has architectural similarities with Shah Jahan's palaces and is covered in paintings and flower carvings.
The Moti Mahal or The Palace of Pearls is a spectacular chamber covered with lustrous pearls. This chamber was made for the Queens to sit and observe the proceedings of the court while remaining unseen.

2. Tour the Jaswant Thada

The Jaswant Thada, a glorious white marble mausoleum is a scenic respite among the lush greenery and relaxing atmosphere. The intricately made domes and cenotaphs are a classic Rajasthani architectural feature. It is named after Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Its composition is of pure white marble, which still retains its glamour and lustre. Inside, you can also find various paintings of the different rulers of Mewar.

There is a lake nearby, and you can often find local folk singers and musicians greeting you with their melodious voices.

The pillars, arches, carvings, and paintings are a sight to behold. The domes inspired by Mughal architecture stand testament to the long history between the Mughals and Rajputs.

You can take a peaceful walk along the lakeside or bask in the abundant sunlight on the expansive lawns. This mausoleum is near the Mehrangarh Fort and is hardly crowded.

3. Explore the Clock Tower & Sardar Market

The Ghanta Ghar or the Clock tower is an ancient tower built by Maharaja Sardar Singh. It is surrounded by a bustling market which is named after him. Being one of the most popular markets in Jodhpur, Sardar Market is usually crowded. This place is located in the heart of the Old City. It is also a suitable area to stay, because of the centralised location and cheap accommodations. The bazaar is chaotic yet beautiful. You can explore around and find souvenirs to take home, or support local artisans by purchasing their art, handicrafts, handmade textiles, and spices!

The best time to visit is early in the morning. You can walk around and observe the craftsmanship of the tower and talk to the welcoming locals!

4. Visit the Umaid Bhawan Palace

The Umaid Bhawan Palace, named after Maharaja Umaid Singh is a heritage site. It is one of the largest private residential areas, with 347 rooms. It is partly managed and owned by Taj Hotels and a portion of the palace has also been converted into a museum. The palace, built in the 20th century, is an amalgamation of western Classic Revival and Indian-Saracenic architectural features. It is located on the outskirts of Jodhpur in a place named Chittar. You can tour the various courtyards, which are elegantly decorated, along with the beautiful banquets. Libraries, the Durbar Hall and ballrooms are luxuriously decorated. The museum also has some vintage classic cars on display!

5. Marvel at the scenic Mandore Gardens

The Mandore Gardens built in the 6th century are a marvellous harmony of architecture and nature. Mandore was previously the capital of Marwar, before Jodhpur. You can expect to find an old fort, a number of gorgeous temples, cenotaphs, and even a small museum. You will find a lot of monkeys to keep you company, and the traditional architecture is picturesque. An impressive feature is the chhatri of Maharaja Ajit Singh made of red sandstone. This historically rich garden is definitely worth a visit!

6. Go on a zipline adventure

Flying Fox, an adventure company, provides you with the excellent opportunity to get a bit riské and zipline over two desert lakes and enjoy the exhilarating view of the Mehrangarh and the Blue City! It is completely safe, with the assistance of two well-trained instructors and practice sessions before the actual event. It takes around 90 min in total and is located on the northern side of the Mehrangarh Fort. The zip-lining activity is cost-effective and another reason why you must visit Jodhpur!

7. Experience the Toorji ka Jhalra with a modern twist

The Toorji ka Jhalra or the Step Well square was built in the 1740s. It is an impressive piece of architecture that was of great significance during the 18th century. It had been buried for many years and has recently been restored to its former glory but with an urban twist. There is splendid symmetry and detail in the place, and it is made of the classic sandstone popular in most Rajasthani architecture! The steps lead down to a pool of water which used to serve as a source of water for the people, because of the scarcity.

The Urban regeneration project has been an exciting take on the traditional monuments to bring fresh changes. The Step Well area has now been transformed into a trendy area, with chic cafes and decorative shops. The StepWell Cafe is well known for its opportunity of dining with a view!

8. Places of natural beauty

If you are a nature lover, then choosing Jodhpur as your next holiday destination is one decision you will never regret. Home to numerous lakes, lush greenery and desert landscapes, the city offers a number of amazing spots to marvel at. Here are some of the most beautiful places to visit on your trip to Jodhpur.

Kaylana Lake - Situated on the outskirts of Jodhpur city, this man-made lake is sprawled across an area of 84 sq km. Constructed by Pratap Singh in 1872, it was formerly considered one of the city’s best spots for hunting. Moreover, it is an excellent place for taking in the breathtaking views of the sunset.
Masuriya Hill Garden - Perched on the top of Masuriya Hill, this lovely garden offers a mesmerising 360-degree view of the entire city. With its lush green landscapes and abundance of flora, it is listed amongst the best spots to enjoy a picnic.
Khichan Bird Sanctuary - Situated right next to a lake, this place is a great place for those who enjoy birdwatching. In addition to being home to several species of indigenous and migratory birds, it offers panoramic views.
Dhawa Doli Wildlife Sanctuary: This wildlife sanctuary is the perfect destination for those interested in exploring the region’s flora and fauna. It is home to diverse species of animals including various rare and endangered animals. You can spot antelopes, wild buffalos, blue bulls, wild boars, and more while here.

9. Festivals

Jodhpur is known for its large number of festivals that reflect the city’s deep-rooted traditions and vibrant culture. The city witnesses cheerful events and joyous celebrations all through the year. Some of its major festivities include:

Marwar festival: Held in September or October every year, this two-day festival was formerly known as Maand Festival. Celebrated to commemorate the heroes of Rajasthan, it includes amazing performances by folk dancers and musicians. Several other enjoyable activities like puppet shows, camel tattoo shows, and horse polo also take place.
Jodhpur international kite flying festival: On the occasion of Makar Sankranti, which is observed on 14th January, Jodhpur holds a major celebration for all kite-flying enthusiasts. The celebration includes exciting competitions, and several other fun activities and events.
Rajasthan international folk festival: Hosted at Mehrangarh Fort, this annual festival involves a five-day-long celebration of Rajasthan’s art and culture. Held on Sharad Poornima every year, it includes concerts, filling the nights with dance, music, and other art forms.
Jodhpur flamenco and gypsy festival: This cultural festival is held in an effort to merge the beauty of India and Spain’s folk cultures. Hosted at the Mehrangarh Fort every year, it is attended by hundreds of musicians, dancers, singers, and artists from all around the world.

10. Must-try dishes

Jodhpur is renowned for its delectable cuisine. Offering lip-smacking street food and numerous fine dining restaurants, the city is a paradise for all food lovers. With its spicy local delicacies and delectable desserts, it ensures an unparalleled culinary experience for tourists with diverse tastes and choices. Here are some of the best dishes you can try in Jodhpur.

Laal maas: If you enjoy non vegetarian food, then don't miss out on trying out this mouth-watering mutton delicacy. With a delightfully smoky flavour and tempting aroma, it includes tender, slow-cooked meat spiced with garlic and red chillies.
Gulab jamun ki sabzi: This traditional Jodhpuri dish is made by dunking deep-fried balls of mawa into a delicious tomato-heavy gravy. The gravy also contains cashew nuts to give it a richer taste.
Pyaaz kachori: This delectable snack offers the perfect combination of crispiness, texture, and flavour. It is basically round, fluffy fritters containing a flavourful filling made from tangy onions and a plethora of spices.
Makhaniya lassi: Counted amongst the most delicious and wholesome local beverages, this thick creamy concoction of buttermilk is delightfully flavoured with rose water, sugar, saffron, and cardamom. It is also topped with a dollop of yoghurt, cream, and hung curd.

Dal bati churma, mawa kachori, mirchi bada, malai roti, and sev tamatar are some other mind-blowing local dishes you can treat yourself to.

Travel tips

Book your hotels and accommodations in advance, especially during rush season.
Do not forget to carry weather-appropriate clothes. If you are visiting during the summer season, it is advisable to pack sunscreen and shades, and comfortable shoes because of the rocky and sandy terrain.
Try out local food in the area. They are delectable, especially the Rajasthani sweets!

How to reach Jodhpur?

By air: Jodhpur has its own domestic airport. It is well connected to major cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Udaipur, Ahmedabad, Varanasi, Lucknow, and Chennai. IndiGo offers direct non-stop flights to Jodhpur from all of these cities.
By rail: The Jodhpur railroad is also well connected to Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata. You can also opt for the luxurious train ride of the 'Palace on Wheels’ train. Some other trains that travel to Jodhpur are Jaisalmer Delhi Express and Howrah Jodhpur SF Express.
By road: Jodhpur has numerous national and state highways that connect to cities like Udaipur, Jaipur, and Delhi. You can use a car or book a seat on the private or government buses.

Best time to visit Jodhpur

The best time to visit is during the months of October to February, which is the winter season. The weather is cool and pleasant. You can also experience many festivals during that time!

Weather in Jodhpur

Jodhpur has arid and dry weather throughout the year, and usually, the temperatures are always high. The most rainfall it experiences is in the months of July and August. The warmest month is May with temperatures reaching up to 40°C. The driest months are January, February, March, April, May, and October. It is mostly sunny during the day and chilly at night.

Conclusion

The City of Blue has plenty to offer! From mouth-watering delicacies to historical forts and palaces to extensive shopping opportunities. We hope these reasons were helpful to convince you to travel to this rich city of Jodhpur!