Jodhpur Tourism

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About Jodhpur

A popular travel destination in Rajasthan, Jodhpur is a sunny city set against the bright blue sky and is called the ‘Blue city since a number of houses and walls of the city are painted blue in color. The city of Jodhpur was founded in the year 1459 by Rao Jodha, the chief of the Rathore clan at the time.

After being driven out by the Afghans from their homeland in Kannauj, The Rathore clan fled to Pali, where they established marital ties with the local kingdom which increased their strength. Following which they drove out the Pratiharas from Mandore and established the town as their capital. Later as the need for a more secure capital arose, the Rathores decided to settle in the beautiful city of Jodhpur.

A Quick Glance at Jodhpur

State	Rajasthan
Coordinates	26.2389° N, 73.0243° E
Geographical area	22,850 square kilometers
Popular Tourist Attractions in Jodhpur	Mehrangarh Fort and its palaces, Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jaswant Thada, Mandore Garden, Chamunda Mata Temple, Mahamandir Temple, Om Banna Temple, Osian Village, Kaylana Lake, Toorji ka Jhalra, Mandore Garden, Masuria Hills, Sardar Government Museum
Popular Festivals of Jodhpur	Marwar Festival, International Desert Kite Festival, Nagaur Fair
Languages Spoken in Jodhpur	Hindi, English, Marwari, Rajasthani

Tourism in Jodhpur

Jodhpur's sublime architecture is what catches the eyes of the tourists while sightseeing. Jodhpur offers its visitors an unbeatable blend of modern and ancient that divides the city neatly into two parts, Old and New.

The Old Jodhpur is crammed with the famous blue painted houses, consistently mushrooming hotels catering to hippie culture, and those interested in witnessing the rustic side of this one of the favorite getaways in Rajasthan. On the other side, the New Jodhpur area teems with malls, high end accommodations, amusement parks, cafes and lounges.

However, one cannot overlook the gorgeous suburb of Jodhpur that is adorned with lakes like Kaylana, and the places nearby such as the Osian village, dotted with beautiful ancient Hindu and Jain temples with a desert area for camel safari. Indeed, Jodhpur is an enriching and fulfilling experience for family vacations, honeymoon, history lovers, students, and for that matter, even for solo travelers.

Apart from Mehrangarh and Umaid Bhawan Palace, the top places to visit in Jodhpur include the white marbled Jaswant Thada, Mandore Garden, and the Masuria Hills, popular for offering panoramic views of the city. There are also a large number of Hindu temples in Jodhpur, beckoning an ideal destination for pilgrimage tours. Another must see place is the Sardar Government Museum that displays ancient inscriptions, coins, sculptures, etc.

While Jodhpur is famous for its palaces and architecture, it is equally known for its Pyaaz Kachori, Mirchi Bada and Mawa Kachori, among other delicacies.

Read along to find out the top tourist destinations in Jodhpur as we bring to you a travel guide on Jodhpur tourism.

Forts and Palaces - The Royals of Rajasthan

Perched on top of a hill at a height of 410 feet above the city of Jodhpur is the most beautiful structure of the city, the Mehrangarh Fort. Built in the year 1459 by Rao Jodha of the Rathore clan, the fort is an architectural marvel and is steeped in history.

The fort has 7 huge gates which were built by different rulers at different points of time and were made as a reminder of their victory in battles. The fort houses a number of magnificent palaces namely,the Phool Mahal, Moti Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Jhanki Mahal, Takhat Vilas and Zenana Mahal, and now functions as a museum.

The Phool Mahal is the most elaborate palace in the fort. As the name suggests, Phool Mahal was designed to look like the most beautiful flower, and it does. The palace was made by Maharaja Abhaya SIngh and was intended to be a pleasure chamber for the King

The interior of the palace is laden with gold, uses a colorful palette, and is adorned with paintings and intricate carvings on its walls and ceilings. The built and design of the palace are a fine testament to the extravagant taste of the royals.

Moti Mahal translates to 'Palace of pearls' is considered to be the biggest palace at Mehrangarh and was made by Raja Sur Singh as a darbar or the court where he would listen to the concerns of his subjects.

The palace earns the name due to its surface being covered with a mixture of finely crushed seashells and lime plaster which gives it a shiny look. The intricacies of its interior with the beautiful mirror work, religious paintings and stained glass windows make the palace a sight to behold

The Sheesh Mahal or the Palace of Mirrors is another exquisite palace in Mehrangarh Fort. The palace is known for the marvelous interior with its walls and ceilings covered in mirrors of different sizes and the walls adorning painted panels of various Hindu Gods and Goddesses. Sheesh Mahal was built by Maharaja Ajit Singh and was one of his private chambers.

Built by Maharaja Takhat Singh, the Takhat Vilas served as his residence during his reign and displays a blend of Rajput and British architecture. The walls and ceiling of the palace are decorated with paintings which showcase stories from Hindu mythology.

The Jhanki Mahal was built for the women of the royal family to observe the royal ceremonies since they were barred from coming into public view, and so they observed the ceremonies through the windows of the palace.

This palace at Mehrangarh Fort called the Zenana Mahal was built for the royal women and was kept separated from the men's quarters. The royal women lived at the palace and spent a lot of their time here. The noticeable architecture of the palace includes structures made of sandstones and intricate carvings.

Another marvel at Jodhpur by the Rathore dynasty is the Umaid Bhawan Palace. Built by Maharaja Umaid Singh, it is another place for tourists to explore. The Palace is divided into three parts, a luxury stay hotel, museum and the private residence of the royal family of Jodhpur.

Temples of Jodhpur- Carved for the Gods

Apart from the majestic palaces and forts, Jodhpur also has some mesmerizing temples as well. Take a look at them while on your trip to the city.

The Chamunda Mata Temple was built by Rao Jodha of the Rathore dynasty, and is situated at the Mehrangarh Fort.

The Rathore King brought the deity of Goddess Chamunda from the previous capital of Mandore to Jodhpur and established it at the temple. The story of the temple revolves around the making of the Mehrangarh Fort.

Apparently before the King decided to build his capital at this hilltop, it used to be a residing place of a certain Sage, who did not wish to move even after multiple requests by the King. As a result, he was forced to leave the hilltop by the King's troop. He left, but cursed the kingdom will forever face water scarcity and drought. To avert this curse, the Chamunda Mata Temple was set up.

Another marvelous temple at Jodhpur is the Mahamandir Temple. The beautiful temple is a Shaivite temple and is supported by 84 intricately carved pillars. The temple is a popular site for tourists when they visit Jodhpur due to its exquisite architecture and is a place you must visit on your trip to the city.

At the Osian village, near the city of Jodhpur are the beautiful temples of Osian. The village houses a number of Jain and Hindu temples, and is therefore also called the 'Khajuraho of Rajasthan' due to the presence of the many temples. The temples which are known primarily include the Surya Temple, Harihara Temple, Sachiya Mata Temple and Mahavira Jain Temple.

A fascinating temple near Jodhpur that is truly one of a kind is the Om Banna Temple or the Bullet Baba Temple. The Temple is located on the NH 62 on the Pali-Jodhpur Highway and is dedicated to a young man called Om Singh Rathore who passed away at the site due to a bike accident.

The bullet bike of Om Banna is at the temple and is kept in a glass case, which is worshiped by the people along with the tree which the bike crashed into. The local people as well as travelers stop by and pray to Om Banna for a safe journey. The peculiar temple is a place that you should include in your itinerary to Jodhpur.

Other Tourist Attractions

Modern Jodhpur has grown and expanded through its palaces, forts and temples and is a favored tourist attraction featuring beautiful architecture cradled in the sandy folds of the Thar Desert.

Also known as the 'Taj Mahal of Mewar', the Jaswant Thada is another popular tourist place in Jodhpur.

Built in 1899, Jaswant Thada is a cenotaph and is compared to the Wonder of the world due to being made out of white marble and in memory of a loved one. The structure was built by Maharaja Sardar Singh to commemorate his father Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. The intricately carved sandstone along the structure also adds to its beauty.

Other popular tourist attractions in Jodhpur include the Mandore Garden, the beautiful Kaylana Lake, Toorji ka Jhalra, Masuria Hills, and the Sardar Government Museum.

Jodhpur's Markets- Do't Stop Just Shop

A Jodhpur trip is not quite complete without shopping for gorgeous jewelry, Bandhej work, and spices, especially the Mathania red chillies available at the colorful, vibrant Clock Tower Market, which is also one of the popular markets in Jodhpur, not only among tourists but also among the locals.

For the traditional tie-dye Bandhej fabrics, head to the Nai Sarak Market. The market has some of the beautiful Bandhej printed suits, sarees, dupattas, and turbans that you can get. And if you are looking for the classic Jodhpuri Jutti or the Mojari, the Mochi Bazaar is for you.

Celebrations at Jodhpur - The Cultural Way

The popular celebrations give a detailed insight into what makes Rajasthan a land of vivacity. For those wanting to relish the culture and tradition of Jodhpur should plan their holiday during when the city’s fairs and festivals take place, like the Marwar Festival, Jodhpur International Desert Kite Festival and the Nagaur Fair.

The Marwar Festival is celebrated in the month of Ashwin according to the Hindu calendar, and is a 2 day affair. The festival is celebrated in honor of the valiant Kings and rulers of Rajasthan and is accompanied by folk song and dance performances at popular sites of Jodhpur like the Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhawan Palace, and Mandore Garden.

Held on 14 January every year, the Jodhpur International Desert Kite Festival is a festival that has become popular very fast. The festival is held on the occasion of Makar Sankranti and has people from all over the world participating in it to fly kites. There are cultural and folk performances held alongside as well.

The Nagaur Fair is organized by the Department of Tourism and Animal Husbandry Department and is held annually between the months of January and February. Animals like cows, bulls, horses, and camels are traded during the fair. Apart from the trades, the fair also has cultural performances and activities such as the turban-tying competition, tug-of-war, camel dance, etc.

Jodhpuri Cuisine- Sweet and Spicy

Jodhpur's cuisine is as colorful and vibrant as Jodhpur and is sure to be one of the highlights of your trip. Just like the city's palaces and forts, the Jodhpuri food is also quite popular.

On your trip to the city, make sure you try the delicious Pyaaz Kachori, Shahi Samosa and the Makhaniya Lassi along with the famous Gulab Jamun ki Sabzi. And if you love yourself some spice, do try out the Mirchi Bada, Mirchi ki Sabzi, or the Lal Maas. To end your meal with something sweet, you might want to reach out for a Rabdi Laddoo made with sweetened condensed milk or the Besan ki Chakki.

Best Time to Visit Jodhpur

Being close to the Thar Desert, Jodhpur can get extremely hot in the months of April to June with temperatures reaching up to 45 degrees Celsius, and is not ideal for travel. It is therefore best to avoid the summer months.

The city experiences monsoon from July to September. There might be fewer crowds as compared to other months but the weather can get pretty humid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.What is Jodhpur famous for ?

Jodhpur is a city in the North Indian state of Rajasthan and is also known as the blue city due to the number of houses in the city that are painted blue. It is most primarily known for being the capital of the Rathore clan and therefore the Mehrangarh Fort is a known tourist attraction of the city. Jodhpur is also known for its spicy food, silver jewelry, Mojari footwear, and the Bandhej printed fabrics.

Q. What is the best time to visit Jodhpur for holidays ?

The best time to visit Jodhpur is between the months of October and March when the weather is colder and pleasant. It is the peak season for tourism in the city since the second half of the year brings various fairs and festivities. Being close to the Thar Desert, Jodhpur can get extremely hot in the months of April to June with temperatures reaching up to a scorching 45 degrees celsius, and is not ideal for travel. It is therefore best to avoid the summer months. The city experiences monsoon from July to September. There might be fewer crowds as compared to other months but the weather can get pretty humid.

Q.How many days are recommended for a trip to Jodhpur ?

Jodhpur has a number of tourist attractions that you must visit and so 2- 3 days in the city would be an ideal duration for a trip to Jodhpur.

Q.Is Jodhpur safe for solo female travelers ?

Yes, Jodhpur is completely safe and an ideal destination for female travelers who wish to travel solo in the city.

Q.Which are the top tourist attractions to explore in Jodhpur ?

The top tourist attractions to explore in Jodhpur include the Mehrangarh Fort and its palaces, Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jaswant Thada, Mandore Garden, Chamunda Mata Temple, Mahamandir Temple, Om Banna Temple, Osian Village, Kaylana Lake, Toorji ka Jhalra, Masuria Hills, and the Sardar Government Museum.

Q.What are the best local dishes to try in Jodhpur ?

When you visit Jodhpur make sure to try these local delicacies of Pyaaz Kachori, Shahi Samosa, Makhaniya Lassi, Gulab Jamun ki Sabzi, Mirchi Bada, Mirchi ki Sabzi, Lal Maas, Rabdi Laddoo, and Besan ki Chakki.

Q.What are the popular must-see festivals in Jodhpur ?

The popular festivals and fairs of Jodhpur are the Marwar Festival, International Desert Kite Festival, Nagaur Fair.

Q.How to get around in Jodhpur ?

The best way to travel in Jodhpur is by hiring a taxi or by the local auto-rickshaws.

Q.What are the best places for holiday shopping in Jodhpur ?

If you would like to shop around in Jodhpur, it is advisable to head to the Clock Tower Market for spices and Mathania red chillies, Nai Sarak for Bandhej fabrics, and the Mochi Bazaar for the Jodhpuri Mojari,

Q.How are the summer, monsoon and winter seasons in Jodhpur ?

Being close to the Thar Desert, Jodhpur experiences a desert climate and remains hot and dry most of the year. Summer in Jodhpur is from April to June and sees the average temperature of 33-degree Celsius, and can reach up to 45-degree Celsius on the hottest days.

The months of July to September bring in rains due to monsoon and the weather remains slightly cooler and sees an average temperature of 30-degree celsius. But due to the rains, the weather gets pretty humid during July and August.

Jodhpur experiences winter between the months of November to February with an average temperature of 18 degrees Celsius.

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