Jodhpur, the Blue City, is dominated by the glorious Meherangarh Fort. The old city and it’s blue-painted houses, that give Jodhpur its nickname, circle the fort bounded by a wall with several gates. Jodhpur proper stretches beyond the 16th-century border, but it’s the immediacy and grandeur of the old city, once the capital of the Marwar State on the ancient silk route, that attracts more and more visitors. Today, Jodhpur has grown to become the second largest city of Rajasthan without shedding its medieval splendour. The city is also known as the “Sun City” for the bright, sunny weather it enjoys all year.
Our itinerary ideas for your tailor-made holiday in Jodhpur
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Highlights
Amber Fort is a fascinating Indian forts. It was the ancient capital of the Jaipur state. Construction began in the 16th century and was subsequently added on to by successive rulers. Don’t miss the Palace of Mirrors, inlaid with millions of tiny glistening mirrors, the hall of Public Audience and the beautiful manicured gardens.
Jaswant Thada
Close to the fort is the 19th century royal cenotaph, Jaswant Thada, a milky white marble memorial to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. This array of domes is a welcome, peaceful spot and the view across to the fort is superb. The cenotaph, built in 1899, was followed by the royal crematorium and three other cenotaphs that stand nearby.
Umaid Bhawan Palace
Umaid Bhawan Palace is one of the world’s largest private residences. Named after Maharaja Umaid Singh, grandfather of the present owners of the palace, the palace has 347 rooms and serves as the principal residence of the Jodhpur royal family. Umaid Bhawan Palace was called Chittar Palace during its construction due to its location on Chittar Hill, the highest point in Jodhpur. The Palace is divided into three functional parts – a luxury Taj Palace Hotel, the residence of the erstwhile royal family, and a Museum focusing on the 20th century history of the Jodhpur Royal Family. The museum contains a small but exquisite display section, exhibiting arms, furniture, antique clocks and priceless china vases that formed a part the private collection of Maharajas of Jodhpur.
Other
Those who want to feel the city are advised to visit Ghanta Ghar (the clock tower), a popular monument in the old city, and colourful Sardar market with its narrow alleys leading to the bazaars featuring textiles, silver and handicrafts.
If you have a little bit of more time, you may also explore Mandore, which was the capital of the Kingdom of Marwar prior to the foundation of Jodhpur. Today it is a popular local attraction due to its extensive gardens with high rock terraces and cenotaphs of Jodhpur rulers.
You can also use Jodhpur as a base to visit:
Kaylana Lake and Garden, Balsamand lake, Sardar Samand Lake and Palace, Masooria Hill, Veer Durgadas Smarak (monument, park and museum), Dhawa (Dholi) forest area, Khichan, Osian, Nakoda ji.
Our favourite hotels in Jodhpur
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