Jodhpur Tourism

Jodhpur is a city in the northwestern Indian state of Rajasthan. It is the second-largest city in the state and is known for its historical significance and cultural heritage. The city is home to the Mehrangarh Fort, one of the largest forts in India, as well as the Jaswant Thada, a cenotaph dedicated to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Jodhpur is also known for its blue buildings, which gave it the nickname “Blue City.” The city is a popular tourist destination and is known for its handicrafts, textiles, and traditional Rajasthani cuisine. Here Top 10 Places to visit in Jodhpur.

1. Mehrangarh Fort:

Mehrangarh Fort is one of the largest forts in India and a major tourist attraction in Jodhpur. The fort is situated on a hilltop and offers a panoramic view of the city. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its intricate carvings, beautiful palaces, and rich history. The fort was built in the 15th century by Maharaja Rao Jodha and has several gates, each with a unique story and significance. Inside the fort, you can explore various palaces such as the Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, and Sheesh Mahal. The fort also houses a museum that displays a collection of artifacts, weapons, and paintings from the Rajput era.

2. Jaswant Thada:

Jaswant Thada is a cenotaph dedicated to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. The monument is made of marble and is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful architecture. The cenotaph was built in 1899 and it serves as the final resting place of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II and other members of the royal family. The cenotaph is surrounded by beautiful gardens and a small lake, making it a popular spot for photography and picnics.

3. Umaid Bhawan Palace:

Umaid Bhawan Palace is a grand palace built in the 1920s and was the residence of the Maharaja of Jodhpur. The palace was designed by the British architect, Henry Lanchester, and it took around 15 years to complete. The palace has 347 rooms and is a mix of Indian, Western, and Art Deco styles of architecture. The palace is now a hotel and a museum, and visitors can tour the palace and see the beautiful architecture, antiques, and artifacts.

4. Sardar Market:

Sardar Market is a popular shopping destination in Jodhpur. The market is known for its traditional Rajasthani crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Visitors can find a variety of items such as traditional Rajasthani clothes, textiles, jewelry, and pottery. Sardar market is a great place to buy traditional souvenirs such as Jodhpuri Jutti, Bandhni Saris, and Rajasthani Mojri and it’s also a great place to explore the local culture and customs.

5. Clock Tower:

Clock Tower is a popular landmark in Jodhpur and is located in the heart of the old city. The tower is a fine example of Rajasthani architecture and is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful clock. The clock tower was built in 1874 and it’s a great spot to take a stroll and explore the surrounding area.

6. Mandore Gardens:

Mandore Gardens is a popular tourist spot in Jodhpur and is known for its beautiful gardens, temples, and cenotaphs. The gardens are located 6 km from the city and are a great place to relax and take in the natural beauty of Jodhpur. The gardens have several temples and cenotaphs, including the Hall of Heroes and the Shrine of the Three Hundred Million Gods.

7. Balsamand Lake:

Balsamand Lake is a beautiful artificial lake located just outside of Jodhpur. The lake is surrounded by lush green gardens and is a popular spot for picnics and boating. The lake was built in 1159 AD by Maharaja Balsamand and it is a great place to take a boat ride and enjoy the scenery.

8. Kailana Lake:

Kailana Lake is a beautiful artificial lake located just outside of Jodhpur. The lake is surrounded by lush green gardens and is a popular spot for picnics and boating. It is also a popular spot for birdwatching, as the lake is home to a wide variety of bird species. The lake has a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and it is a great place to take a walk and enjoy the peacefulness of nature.

9. Raas Leela Temple:

Raas Leela Temple is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and is located just outside of Jodhpur. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful architecture. The temple is also known for its annual Raas Leela festival, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion. During the festival, the temple comes alive with music, dance, and devotion.

10. Osian:

Osian is an ancient desert town located 65 km northwest of Jodhpur. It is known for its ancient temples, which date back to the 6th century AD. The temples are a great place to learn about the history and culture of the region. Osian has 18 temples in total, the most famous of which are the Sachiya Mata Temple and the Sun Temple. The temples are made of sandstone and are a great place to explore the rich history and culture of the region.

Best time to Visit

The best time to visit Jodhpur is between October and March when the weather is cool and pleasant. During this time, the temperature ranges from 10-25 degree celsius, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. This is also the peak tourist season, so you can expect crowds and higher prices for accommodation and flights.

If you’re looking to avoid crowds and save money on your trip, the months of April to June can be a good option. The weather during this time can be quite hot, with temperatures ranging from 35-45 degree celsius, so it’s best to plan your activities in the morning or evening when the temperatures are cooler.

It’s also worth noting that Jodhpur experiences monsoon season from July to September, during this time the city may see some heavy rain and it may not be the best time to visit as many of the outdoor activities and sightseeing may be disrupted.

How to Reach Jodhpur

Jodhpur is well connected by air, rail, and road. Here are a few ways to reach Jodhpur:

1. By Air: Jodhpur Airport (JDH) is well-connected to major cities in India such as Mumbai, Delhi, Udaipur, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. There are regular flights from major cities in India to Jodhpur. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the city center.
2. By Rail: Jodhpur railway station is well connected to major cities in India such as Mumbai, Delhi, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, and Udaipur. There are several trains running from major cities in India to Jodhpur. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the city center.
3. By Road: Jodhpur is well connected to major cities in Rajasthan and other states in India by road. There are regular bus services from major cities in Rajasthan and other states in India to Jodhpur. If you’re traveling by car, Jodhpur is well connected to major cities in Rajasthan and other states in India by National and State Highways.

Note: If you are traveling to Jodhpur from other countries, you will have to fly to a major Indian city like Delhi, Mumbai, or Jaipur and then take one of the above-mentioned modes of transport to Jodhpur.

Famous Festival in Jodhpur

Jodhpur is known for its rich culture and heritage, and there are several festivals celebrated throughout the year. Some of the famous festivals in Jodhpur include:

1. Marwar Festival: The Marwar Festival is held every year in October and is a celebration of the rich culture and heritage of Jodhpur. The festival is a showcase of Rajasthani folk music, dance, and art. It features traditional performances, horse riding, and cattle fairs.
2. Gangaur Festival: Gangaur is one of the most important festivals in Rajasthan, celebrated in the honor of Goddess Gauri, the consort of Lord Shiva. It is celebrated by married women for the well-being and longevity of their husbands and unmarried women to find a good husband. It is celebrated in the month of March or April.
3. Teej Festival: Teej is a festival celebrated by women in Rajasthan, and it is celebrated in the month of August. The festival marks the onset of the monsoon and is celebrated by women who fast and pray for the well-being of their families.
4. Diwali: Diwali is the festival of lights and is celebrated in the month of October or November. This is the biggest festival of the year and is celebrated by lighting diyas and candles, and bursting firecrackers.
5. Holi: Holi is the festival of colors and is celebrated in the month of March. It is a festival of fun, frolic and spreading love and joy.
6. Jodhpur International Desert Kite Festival: This is a unique annual event that takes place in

Famous Foods in Jodhpur

Jodhpur is known for its delicious and authentic Rajasthani cuisine. Some of the famous foods in Jodhpur that you must try include:

1. Dal-Baati-Churma: This is a traditional Rajasthani dish and is a must-try in Jodhpur. It is a combination of lentil curry (dal), deep-fried wheat balls (baati) and a sweet dish made of crushed wheat, ghee, and sugar (churma).
2. Laal Maas: Laal Maas is a spicy mutton dish that is cooked in a red chili-based gravy. It is a popular dish in Jodhpur and is best served with bajra roti (millet bread)
3. Mirchi Vada: Mirchi vada is a popular street food in Jodhpur. It is a deep-fried snack made of stuffed chili peppers and gram flour batter.
4. Pyaaz Kachori: Pyaaz kachori is a popular breakfast dish in Jodhpur. It is a deep-fried pastry filled with a mixture of onions, gram flour, and spices.
5. Mawa Kachori: Mawa Kachori is a sweet dish made of deep-fried pastry filled with a mixture of khoya (milk solids), sugar, and dry fruits. It’s a famous dessert in Jodhpur and is a must-try for sweet lovers.
6. Ker Sangri: Ker Sangri is a traditional Rajasthani dish made of dried wild berries (ker) and beans (sangri). The dish is cooked with spices and is a great option for vegetarians.
7. Ghevar: Ghevar is a sweet dish made of deep-fried wheat flour and soaked in sugar syrup. It’s a famous dessert in Jodhpur, particularly during the monsoon season.

Note: These are just a few examples of famous foods in Jodhpur, there are many more delicious dishes to try and explore during your visit.

Near-by Hotels in Jodhpur

Jodhpur has a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are a few nearby hotels in Jodhpur that you can consider:

1. Ajit Bhawan: Ajit Bhawan is a heritage hotel located near the airport. It is a palace converted into a hotel and offers luxurious accommodations with all modern amenities.
2. Raas: Raas is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Jodhpur. It offers luxurious accommodations with all modern amenities and a rooftop restaurant with views of the Mehrangarh Fort.
3. Hotel Kalyan: Hotel Kalyan is a budget-friendly hotel located near the railway station. It offers comfortable accommodation with all basic amenities.
4. Hotel Hari Mahal Palace: Hotel Hari Mahal Palace is a heritage hotel located near the Clock Tower. It offers luxurious accommodations with all modern amenities and a rooftop restaurant with views of the Mehrangarh Fort.
5. Hotel Umed Bhawan Palace: Hotel Umed Bhawan Palace is a heritage hotel located near the Umaid Bhawan Palace. It offers luxurious accommodations with all modern amenities and a rooftop restaurant with views of the Mehrangarh Fort.
6. Hotel Ajit Vilas: Hotel Ajit Vilas is a budget-friendly hotel located near Clock Tower. It offers comfortable accommodation with all basic amenities.
7. Hotel Ratan Vilas: Hotel Ratan Vilas is a budget-friendly hotel located near the Mehrangarh Fort. It offers comfortable accommodation with all basic amenities.
8. Hotel Indana Palace: Hotel Indana Palace is a luxury hotel located near the Mehrangarh Fort. It offers luxurious accommodation with all modern amenities and a rooftop restaurant with views of the Mehrangarh Fort.
9. Hotel Gateway: Hotel Gateway is a budget-friendly hotel located near the Jodhpur railway station. It offers comfortable accommodation with all basic amenities.
10. Hotel Palace View: Hotel Palace View is a budget-friendly hotel located near the Mehrangarh Fort. It offers comfortable accommodation with all basic amenities and a rooftop restaurant with views of the Mehrangarh Fort.

When choosing a hotel, it’s important to consider the location, amenities, and reviews to ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable stay in Jodhpur. It is also advisable to book your accommodation in advance, as hotels in Jodhpur can get fully booked during peak season.