Reputed as the Blue City, Jodhpur is a tangle of Brahmin blue houses and zigzag streets that ramble towards the buzzy markets selling sarees. Home to the mighty Mehrangarh, amid the Thar Desert, beyond the city walls, Jodhpur is larger than life and beyond imagination.
Nestled in the rough and barren Thar Desert, the Blue City Jodhpur is a reflection of rich history and cultural heritage. Also called ‘Sun City’, the majestic forts, ruined temples, palaces, and endless deserts have a thousand stories to capture a visitor’s imaginations.
Mehrangarh Fort
One of the most magnificent forts in Jodhpur, Mehrangarh since 1459 has been a real feast for an eye. Standing tall at 150 meters above the sea level, the fort complex has several palaces, gardens, courtyards, galleries and temples that offer a captivating experience. The museum inside is a perfect place to know about the rich heritage of Rathores and other royal families. Try out 6 zip line activities over the battlements of this masculine Fort.
Umaid Bhavan Palace
Overlooking the desert capital of Jodhpur, the magnificent Umaid Bhavan palace was constructed by Maharaja Umaid Singh in 20th century. Now a hotel and museum, this massive art deco palace stands out for its glorious pink and white exteriors. Umaid Bhavan Palace is the residence of the royal family, a luxury Taj Palace Hotel, and a Museum that treasures 20th-century history of the Jodhpur Royal Family. In the museum one will find some fantastic rare clocks, royal furniture, stuffed leopards and trophies.
Jaswant Thada Mausoleum
Towards the left of the Mehrangarh Fort, this beautiful monument is a miracle of intricately carved marble. The royal crematory has cenotaphs and tombs, elegantly carved gazebos, a multi-tiered garden, and a small lake. The main memorial has been built like a temple. To reach this place one has to pass through some rocky hillocks that create a mystical aura.
Mandore Gardens
Erstwhile capital of the Marwar kingdom, Mandore, today is famous as a garden that has cenotaphs of the Jodhpur's former rulers. Amid the well landscaped rock garden, one will find the hall of heroes which is dedicated to the brave Rajput heroes. The queens cenotaphs are on a rocky outcrop that needs a 10 min walk over the hill.
Osian Temples
An ancient desert township, Osian with its oasis-like appearance salutes the glorious history of Rajasthan. The complex has 15 beautiful well preserved temples that belong to 8th and 9th century, oldest of them being the Sun Temple. As a visitor walks around appreciating the architecture of these temples, he will find that no two temples are alike.
Fairs and Festivals of Jodhpur
Jodhpur, a monograph of extravagant architecture and a vibrant culture, comes in its full bloom during its fairs and festivals. It offers sheer bliss in the wild and barren desert. Some of the popular festivals to look forward to are:
Jodhpur International Desert Kite Festival (14th January)
The 3-day International kite festival of Jodhpur is an open invitation for the best kite flyers from India and world. With a lot of excitement, people show their kite flying skills in the polo ground on the occasion of Makar Sankranti.
Nagaur Fair (January - February)
The second biggest in India, Nagaur is known to hold the famous Cattle fair where approx 70,000 bullocks, camels, sheep and horses are traded. Lavishly decorated cattle are sold by their owners wearing colorful turbans and long moustaches. Buyers can also look forward to wooden items, iron crafts and camel leather products. Places nearby are Mirchi bazaar (largest red-chilly market of India).
Marwar Festival (September-October)
Held every year to commemorate the heroes of Rajasthan, Marwar Festival has folk music that narrates the romantic lifestyle of rulers of Rajasthan. Dancers and singers provide a live entertainment singing the folklores of the battles fought by the heroes. Other attractions here are camel tattoo show and polo. The venues of this festival are Umaid Bhawan Palace, Mandore and Mehrangarh Fort.
A visit to the heritage city is not complete without a good shopping in the heritage city. The bustling markets here are full of Rajasthani fabrics, chic mojaris, antiques, handicrafts, and traditional jewellery which will boost your shopping spree. Some of the best places to look forward to are:
Summer
From April to July, the weather is hot and dry as the temperature ranges between 32 to 43 degrees Celsius.
Monsoon
From July till August, temperature falls to a comfortable level, though Jodhpur receives low to moderate rainfall.
Winter
From October till March, Jodhpur receives maximum tourists who come here to do desert camping, sightseeing and attend the famous festivals like Desert Kite festival, Marwar Festival. During this time the temperature stays between 7 degrees to 25 degrees Celsius.
By Air
Domestic airport of Jodhpur is 5 kilometres from the city centre. It is well-connected to other major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Udaipur and Jaipur. The nearest international airport to Jodhpur is IGI airport in New Delhi.
By Train
Jodhpur railhead connects to cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata. Palace on Wheels, the famous luxury train also stops here to visit the city.
Self Drive
Jodhpur connects Delhi, Ahmadabad, Udaipur and Jaipur through national and state highways. Nothing can compare a long drive in the rusty countryside stopping at the hamlets and small towns.
