Jodhpur, the second-largest city in Rajasthan and the former capital of the Marwar region is renowned as "the Blue City" due to its mesmerizing blue walls and houses, creating a stunning sight when viewed from above. This city is adorned with exquisite temples, serene lakes, and delightful snacks that tantalize the taste buds of visitors. The main highlight of Jodhpur is the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort, which stands tall as a symbol of its regal past and offers an awe-inspiring experience for tourists. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and architectural splendors, Jodhpur is a captivating destination that beckons travelers from far and wide. The charm of Jodhpur is truly encapsulated within the winding streets of its old city, encircling the majestic Mehrangarh Fort. The area comes alive with a vibrant atmosphere, teeming with hundreds of shops, guesthouses, eateries, and lively vendors, creating a bustling and cheerful ambiance, particularly near the iconic clock tower and Sardar Market.
As you venture beyond Mehrangarh, you'll discover the new and modern facets of Jodhpur. Other top attractions, such as the nearby Jaswant Thada and Umaid Bhawan Palace, add to the city's allure and provide visitors with a diverse range of experiences to explore and enjoy. Jodhpur's mix of heritage and modernity makes it a captivating destination with something delightful to offer to every traveler.
Renowned as the Best Hotel in the world, Umaid Bhawan Palace is a major tourist attraction in Jodhpur. Beyond its status as a heritage hotel, it also serves as a fascinating museum and serves as the residence of the Royal Family, under the ownership of Raja Gaj Singh. Perched atop Chittar Hill, the palace is often referred to as the Chittar Palace due to its elevated location, offering breathtaking views of Jodhpur. Commissioned in 1929 and completed in 1943, the palace's construction aimed to employ drought and grief-stricken farmers of the region, which contributed to its extended timeline. As a guest at Umaid Bhawan Palace, you'll be treated to unparalleled hospitality, along with heritage walks that reveal the palace's intriguing history. The dining experiences offered here are nothing short of unforgettable, adding to the allure of this opulent destination.
Located close to Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur, Hanwant Palace is a luxurious five-star hotel that offers a truly regal dining experience for its guests. Originally serving as the hunting palace for the Rajas, this magnificent Mahal was a favorite retreat for the kings after their hunting expeditions, where they would indulge in sumptuous meals and drinks. Spread across three stories, the palace also hosts dinners in its beautiful garden, adorned with charming flower beds and elegant fountains. The dining experience at Hanwant Palace offers a delectable array of Rajasthani and North Indian cuisine, served in a heritage setting adorned with decor reminiscent of a bygone era. Immerse yourself in the regal ambiance and flavors, as you relish the grandeur of Jodhpur's illustrious past.
Often referred to as the Glass Palace of Jodhpur, this magnificent structure captivates visitors with its lavish display of intricate mirror work, adorning every inch from ceiling to floor. These elaborate mirrors are harmoniously complemented by vibrant plaster paintings of various religious figures, showcasing the strong influence of religion and culture on the art of that era. The decorative panels present a mesmerizing array of deities, including Lord Brahma, Lord Shiva and Parvati, Lord Krishna playing the flute, and Lord Rama, among others. The Hall of Mirrors, as it is aptly named, boasts ceilings and floors adorned with beautifully inlaid mirrors. The addition of blue, green, silver, and gold ornaments suspended from the ceiling, along with a grand European chandelier, further enhances the opulence of this breathtaking hall. Historically, Mehrangarh's Sheesh Mahal served as the bedchamber of Maharaja Ajit Singh, who reigned over Jodhpur from 1679 to 1724. Today, this remarkable architectural gem stands as a testament to the grandeur and artistic brilliance of the past, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the splendor of its design and craftsmanship.
Dating back to 1740, Toorji Ka Jhalra, also known as the stepwell of Jodhpur, stands as a captivating example of the traditional water management systems of the region. This intricate architectural wonder was commissioned by the queen-consort of Maharaja Abhaya Singh, a testament to the age-old tradition where royal women were entrusted with overseeing public water works. The design and structure of Toorji Ka Jhalra offer a fascinating glimpse into the lifestyle of earlier generations who relied on it as their primary water source. Serving as a local watering hole during its prime, it reflects the essential role it played in the community. Crafted from the renowned rose-red sandstone found in Jodhpur, this 250-year-old stepwell delves over 200 feet deep into the earth. Its grandeur is evident through the intricate carvings that once adorned its walls, featuring dancing elephants, medieval lions, cow waterspouts, and niches depicting various deities. Today, Toorji Ka Jhalra remains a cherished heritage site, inviting visitors to explore its historical significance and admire the skillful craftsmanship of the past.
Mehrangarh, also known as Mehran Fort, stands as an impressive testament to the past, having been built in 1459 by Rao Jodha. This sprawling fort is celebrated as one of the largest in the country, perched atop a majestic 410 feet-elevated hill and guarded by formidable walls. Recognizable by many, Mehrangarh has found its way into numerous Hollywood and Bollywood productions, featuring in films like The Lion King, The Dark Knight Rises, and the recent Thugs of Hindustan. The entrance to the fort, situated atop the hill, exudes grandeur with its seven gates, each bearing a unique name and purpose. The Victory Gate commemorates Maharaja Man Singh's triumph over the armies of Jaipur and Bikaner, while the other gates like Fateh Gate, Gopal Gate, Bhairon Gate, Dedh Kamgra Gate, Marti Gate, and Loha Gate boast their intriguing histories and protective features, such as cannonball marks and spiked defenses against elephant and animal attacks.
Balsamand Lake, renowned for housing the Bal Samand Lake Palace, a splendid heritage hotel, has a rich history dating back to the 12th century. Situated merely 5 km away from Jodhpur, it offers a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Originally constructed in 1159 AD by the Gurjara-Pratihara rulers, this picturesque lake was envisioned as a solution to protect Jodhpur from droughts. The visionary behind this artificial water body, Maharaja Sur Singh, earned the esteemed title of Sawai Raja in recognition of his remarkable contribution.
Rajasthan
Jodhpur
Mirchi Bada, Mawa Kachori, Pyaaz Kachori, Besan ki Chakki, Mave ki Kachori, Motichoor Ke Laddu, and Maakhan Vade are all must-try delicacies in Jodhpur.
Hindi is widely spoken in Jodhpur but tourists can communicate with locals in English.
You can commute internally in Jodhpur by chartering a taxi or rickshaw.
Jodhpur can be visited throughout the year but to avoid hot weather conditions tourists can visit around November to February.
