Find yourself thinking of things to do in Jodhpur? Then you’re at the right place. Jodhpur, like the rest of Rajasthan’s popular states, offers a lot of history and culture. Quite similar but still distinct from its neighbors. Read this short list for some ideas on what you could do while visiting this special city.
Learn why Jodhpur is called the Blue City
Dubbed as the “Blue City” and “Sun City,” Jodhpur is the second-largest city in Rajasthan. Being the historical capital of the Kingdom of Marwar, it boasts numerous palaces, forts, havelis, and temples. Situated at the center of the Indian state, Jodhpur is located in the Thar Desert, the world’s 17th largest desert.
Jodhpur, as a tourist destination, is well-known for the shades of blue in the old city. Brahmpuri, on the north side of the town where many Brahmins live, particularly feature this color. With its origin dating back in 1459, Jodhpur today is a vibrant blend of enduring tradition, proud culture, unique sights, lively sounds, and homegrown craftsmanship.
I took a cab to get to Jodhpur from Udaipur. If you’re interested to know how: Click here! Reaching the middle part of my 3-week India trip, I needed a break from seeing too many sights (actually templed-out) per city. So, in Jodhpur, I didn’t go extreme and took my time doing mundane things. But I did see a couple sights! 😁
Check out the Clock Tower and Sardar Market
A not so hard to miss spot. The Clock Tower, or the Ghanta Ghar, is the landmark that leads people into the different sections of the old city. Built by Maharaja Sardar Singh, the Clock Tower provides a buzzling introduction into what lies at the outskirts of the domineering fort on the background.
Nothing much to do here except take photos. The Clock Tower is at a major throughway and intersection, so it gets really, really noisy and busy! Once you enter, the Sardar Market takes you to an adventure. Through the numerous shops lining the streets, selling everything from spices and sweets to textiles and handicrafts.
Admire the grandiosity of the Mehrangarh Fort
Your Jodhpur trip wouldn’t be complete without visiting its most iconic landmark, the Mehrangarh Fort. Built in around 1459, the imposing structure is situated above the city and is enclosed by formidable walls. The fort is spread over an area of 5 km.
There are seven gates built by different rulers, starting from Rao Jodha. Get cultured when you enter as the museum inside is one of the most well-stocked museums in Rajasthan. See history unfold before you with its diverse collections. From the royal palanquins to the heritage of Rathores, from the 17th to the 19th century.
Besides the museum, other things to do in the Mehrangarh Fort is to simply enjoy the view of the city once you reach the higher parts of the structure. It’s the photo at the beginning of this post!
Hours, fees, and some tips
- See here if you want to visit the Mehrangarh Fort official website.
- The Museum is open every day from 09:00 to 17:00.
- Entry ranges from Rs. 60 to Rs. 600, audio guide included for international visitors.
- The address is P.B #165 The Fort, Jodhpur 342006, Rajasthan. You can easily search on Google Maps for the fastest way to go there wherever you are. If you’re staying within the old city, you can just walk to get to there! That’s what I did.
- Better to wear something comfortable. And also, visit early to prevent the crowd.
Stay and/or eat at Namaste Café
Have you booked your accommodation in Jodhpur? If not yet, then perhaps consider Namaste Café. I stayed here and enjoyed every bit of the experience. The room was big for the price and beautifully designed. It’s walking distance to and from the Clock Tower and Mehrangarh Fort.
But the best bit? The view from the restaurant. Imagine eating brunch or having a candlelit dinner while enjoying the view of the Mehrangarh Fort. Feeling the calm breeze of Jodhpur air around you. And interacting with the most hospitable locals. Do you need any more reason to add this to your list of things to do in Jodhpur now?
Hours, fees, and some tips
- Read what other travelers had to say about Namaste Café on TripAdvisor.
- The restaurant is open every day from 08:00 to 23:00.
- Prices of rooms and restaurant food are great for budget travelers.
- The address is Jasoda Kunj, Makarana Mohalla, Near Clock Tower, Jodhpur City (Some cars and rickshaws prefer not to go inside the old city, but it’s a short walk from the entrance).
Umaid Bhavan Palace and Museum
Located around 6 km from the Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhawan Palace is known as one of the world’s largest private residences. Boasting 347 rooms, it is the principal residence of the former Jodhpur royal family.
Taj Hotels manages the palace which is also home to a museum. There is a minimal fee to enter. If you fancy art deco interior, vintage collections, and architectural grandeur, this place is for you.
Unfortunately, I missed this one. The time I was in Jodhpur was also during the wedding festivities of Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas. Naturally, the palace was already closed a day or two before the wedding date… which was when I chose to go. 🙃
Hours, fees, and some tips
- See here if you want to visit or book a room at Umaid Bhavan Palace.
- The palace is open every day from 10:00 to 16:30.
- Entry fee ranges from Rs. 10 to Rs. 100.
- The address is Circuit House Rd, Cantt Area, Jodhpur, Rajasthan (I took an Uber to get there).
Ride a camel and enjoy a local meal at Osian
For the last entry of possible things to do in Jodhpur, why not go for a camel safari? Add a little bit of nature to your itinerary with a quick half day trip to Osian. An ancient town located in Jodhpur. An oasis in the Thar Dessert.
I booked this particular Camel Safari Half -Day Tour In Jodhpur which brings you to the Sachiya Mata Tempe. A place of worship built in the 9th to 10th century. Before you ride a camel and enjoy the view of the desert. Meet a local family and eat a delicious thali meal. And maybe, see some wild animals and appreciate the sunset.
This experience was memorable for me because it was my first time to ride a camel. I didn’t know you’ve got to have a strong core to hold yourself up when the camel stands up while you’re already sitting on it. Definitely one for the books!
Out of all the things to do in Jodhpur on this list, which one do you plan on doing? Overall, I loved exploring Jodhpur. Since I didn’t have all the time to visit all Rajasthan states, I chose Jodhpur because it has the perfect balance. It offers a desert experience which you would get from Jaisalmer. And a lot of distinct culture which you would encounter in the most popular state, Jaipur.
Is India your next country of destination? See my other entries here!
- What to Do in Kolkata? A List of 7 Things (Itinerary)
- Top Tourist Places in Hyderabad: 6 Cultural Spots to Visit (Itinerary)
- 48 Hours in Mumbai: Exploring Colaba (Itinerary)
- Why is the Rice in Indian KFC Filled with Hot Spices? #cry (Personal, food-related story)
- Beware of This Hotel in Mumbai, India! (Personal)
- Taking a Cab from Udaipur to Jodhpur + Side Trips (Itinerary)
- Udaipur Sightseeing: 7 Things to Do in the City of Lakes (Itinerary)
