Jodhpur, the second largest city in Rajasthan is popularly known as the Blue City. The name is clearly befitting as most of the architecture – forts, palaces, temples, havelis and even houses are built in vivid shades of blue. The strapping forts that tower this magnificent city sum up to a spectacle you would not want to miss. Jodhpur marks its origin back to the year of 1459 AD. The history of this prosperous city revolves around the Rathore.
Jodhpur city is undoubtedly one of the most exuberant and historic tourist destinations in Rajasthan
Balsamand Lake is about 5 kilometres from Jodhpur on the Jodhpur-Mandore Road. Built in 1159 AD, it was planned as a water reservoir to cater to Mandore. The Balsamand Lake Palace was built on its shore later as a summer palace. It is surrounded by lush green gardens that house groves of trees such as mango, papaya, pomegranate, guava and plum. Animals and birds like the jackal and peacock also call this place home. This lake is now a popular picnic spot with tourists and locals.
GUDA VILLAGE
Guda, a Bishnoi village, is home to a vivid range of exotic wildlife and nature. It is a habitat for thousands of migratory birds in the area. One can often catch the Demoiselle crane frolicking at the lake. Antelopes and black bucks can also be spotted by the pond. This place is a must-visit for nature lovers.
MEHRANGARH FORT AND MUSEUM
Mehrangarh, the fort of Jodhpur, crowns a rocky hill that rises 400 feet above the surrounding plain and appears both to command and to meld with the landscape. One of the largest forts in Rajasthan, it contains fine palaces and preserves in its museum many priceless relics of Indian courtly life. Jodhpur is named after its founder Rao Jodha, a fifteenth-century chief of the Rathore clan. In 1459, Rao Jodha (r. 1438-89) began to build a new fort six miles to the south of Mandore, his then capital. A strategic location was chosen for the new fort: an isolated rock providing high elevation and good natural defenses. The fort was named Mehrangarh, meaning ‘fort of the sun’ – a reference to the clan’s mythical descent from the Sun god ‘Surya’. Over five hundred yards long, the fort wall is seventy feet wide and rises in places to a height of one hundred and twenty feet. Today Mehrangarh Museum has a unique importance as a repository of the artistic and cultural history of the large areas of Central Rajasthan and Marwar-Jodhpur. The museum boasts exemplary examples of 17th, 18th and 19th-century collections for the fields of Miniature Paintings, Arms and Armours, Textiles, Decorative Arts and Furniture. The Museum has also participated in many international exhibitions all over the world, displaying and sharing the rich heritage of Marwar, and interacting with prestigious institutions in the field.
CHOKHELAO BAGH AND INTERPRETATION CENTER
Visit the Chokhelao Bagh which sits at the foot of the Mehrangarh Fort. This over two hundred-year-old garden, complete with the scents, sounds, and textures of a garden of the eighteenth century Marwar has been turned into a Botanical Museum by the Mehrangarh Museum Trust by planting and in-situ displaying, exquisite endemically historic flora of Marwar region. The garden today, as in the past, is truly a celebration of nature as it captures the changing colors of the seasons in the upper terrace of flower beds. It is equally magical for night viewing when the Mehtab Bagh or moonlight garden laid out in the lower terrace comes alive with the white flowers ofchandni(Tabernaemontana coronaria) and the sweet- smellingkamini(Maurya exotia). Visit this gem of a garden and carry back the sensuous experience of eighteenth-century Rajput garden.
The Sachchiya Mata Temple is located in Osian, near Jodhpur city in the Indian state of Rajasthan. The mother goddess Sachiya is worshipped there by Kshatriya Swarnakar, Marwadi, Oswal, Maheshwari, Karnawat, and Mahecha Rajputs.
Rising perpendicular and impregnable from a hill which is 125 metres above Jodhpur’s skyline is the Mehrangarh Fort. This historic fort is one of the most famous in India and is packed with history and legends. Mehrangarh Fort still bears the imprints of cannonball attacks courtesy the armies of Jaipur on its second gate. Chiselled and sturdy, the fort is known for its exquisite latticed windows, carved panels, intricately decorated windows and walls of Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal and Sheesh Mahal.
KHEJARLA FORT
Located 85 kilometres from the main city, the 400-year old Khejarla Fort is situated in a rural setting. The stunning red sandstone monument, now a hotel, is an example of Rajput architecture. Visitors will be mesmerised by the fort's picturesque settings, latticework friezes and intricate Jharokas.
UMAID BHAWAN PALACE
Umaid Bhawan Palace was built by Maharaja Umaid Singh in 1929 to counter a famine which had hit the state at the time. It was also known as the Chittar Palace while being constructed thanks to the use of stones drawn from the Chittar hill. The palace was designed by HV Lanchester, a renowned British architect, and was completed in 16 years. Built with sandstone and marble, the architecture of the palace is described as a blend of lndo-Saracenic, Classical Revival and Western Art Deco styles. It is recognised as one of the largest private homes in the world and also one of the more spectacular buildings. It is the only palace built in the 20th century.
MOTI MAHAL
Moti Mahal, as the name suggests, is the Pearl Hall where the royal families held their audience. The hall is known to have glass windows and five nooks that enabled the queens to listen to the proceedings taking place in the Sringar Chowki, The Royal Throne of Jodhpur.
SHEESH MAHAL
Situated within the compound of Mehrangarh Fort is the glass palace of Jodhpur, popularly known as Sheesh Mahal. This magnificent piece of architecture is adorned with walls of mirror work that stretch across ceilings and to the floors. It is superimposed by the mirror work of brightly painted religious figures cast in plaster.
PHOOL MAHAL
Going by the name, the Phool Mahal or Flower Hall is the most exorbitant of all the halls in the palace. This beautiful chamber is said to be the pleasure dome for the Maharajas. The gold used for constructing the Mahal came from Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
Famous for: History, Architecture, Photography, Adventure.
Tickets: 60 INR for Indians and 400 INR for foreigners. A trip to museum will cost 70 INR for Indians, 600 INR for foreigners plus 200 INR and 100 INR for photography and videography respectively. Discounted prices for senior citizens and students.
Opening Timings: Open on all days (9am to 5pm).
Duration: 2-3 hours.
About Mehrangarh Fort
Beyond question, Mehrangarh Fort tops the list of ‘must visit’ places in Jodhpur. It is one among the largest Indian forts. This invincible fort stands magnificently 400 feet above the city. Rao Jodha constructed the fort in 1459 AD. Though the attempt to construct the fort was started in 1459, the fort had seen many centuries before it was completed. Hence, you could find that the style of architecture represents various periods. The grandeur in architecture is awe-inspiring. The Dark Knight Rises was also shot here.
Things to Do around Mehrangarh Fort
Visit the Ranisar and Padmasar lakes.
Explore the fort’s museum.
Go ziplining (Flying Fox Tour).
Take a guided tour around the fort.
Visit the Chokelao Bagh.
2. Umaid Bhawan Palace
Visitor Information
Famous for: History, Architecture, Photography.
Tickets: Entry to museum is 30 INR for Indians, 10 INR for children (5-11 yrs) and 100 INR for foreigners.
Opening Timings: Open on all days (10am to 4:30pm).
Duration: 1-2 hours.
About Umaid Bhawan Palace
The construction of Umaid Bhawan Palace was started in the year 1929 and it was completed in 1943. The palace is situated on the highest point in the city. The 347-roomed massive palace is named one of the largest private residences in the world. The palace boasts of a combination of Indian and European style of architecture. A part of the palace still serves as a residence to the former royal family, while other two parts of the palace are converted into Taj Palace Hotel and museum. The museum is open to the public, while the hotel is only accessible to the guests and the entry to the residence is prohibited.
Things to Do around Umaid Bhawan Palace
Observe a stunning vintage car collection.
View the clock collection throughout different periods of history.
Tickets: 15 INR for Indians and 30 INR for foreigners. Photography and videography charge are 25 INR and 50 INR respectively.
Opening Timings: Open on all weekdays (9am to 5pm). Closed on all gazette holidays.
Duration: 2-3 hours.
About Jaswant Thada
Jaswant Thada was built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh, the Second in the year 1899. This is close to Mehrangarh Fort. The tranquility of the marble construction is enchanting. The carvings are intricate. Inside Jaswant Thada, you will find the portraits of the Rathore rulers. The grounds of Jaswant Thada consist of a stunning multilevel garden, intricately carved gazebos and a pond.
Things to Do at Jaswant Thada
Relax in the nearby lakes and gardens.
Enjoy a stunning view of Umaid Palace from here.
Explore the stunning architecture.
4. Mandore Gardens
Visitor Information
Famous for: History, Architecture, Gardens, Photography.
Tickets: No fee.
Opening Timings: Open on all days.
Duration: 1-2 hour.
About Mandore Gardens
Mandore, belonging to the 6th century, was Marwar’s capital before Jodhpur was established. Mandore Gardens here attract tourists in great numbers. The Mandore Gardens also house a government museum, a ‘Hall of Heroes’ and a temple to 33 crore Gods. Various artifacts and statues found in the area are housed at the museum. The architectural splendor of the bygone era is clearly evident here.
Opening Timings: Open on all days (sunrise to sunset).
Duration: 2-2.5 hours.
About Kailana Lake
Kailana Lake is located on west of the city. This is yet another artificial lake, which was constructed in the year 1872 by Pratap Singh. This is one amongst the most frequented lakes in Rajasthan. It is a birdwatchers’ paradise. You could sail on a boat if you aim to add some breathtaking photographs to your collection. The view of sunset would be stunning.
Things to Do at Kailana Lake
Go Boat Riding
Have a Picnic
Birdwatching (seasonal).
6. Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park
Visitor Information
Famous for: Nature, Photography, Ecotourism.
Tickets: For adults 100 INR and entry free for school Students. A Naturalist for a guided walks costs 200 INR.
Opening Timings: April to September (7am to 6:30pm) & October to March (8am to 5:30pm).
Duration: 2-2.5 hours.
About Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park
The aim behind the formation of Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park in the year 2006 was to restore the rocky area near the fort. Once preliminary steps were taken to restore the land, more than 80 native plant species from the famous Thar Desert were grown. The 200 acres of park is located at the foot of the impregnable Mehrangarh Fort. The place reflects the hard work and dedication of the ecologists who spared no efforts to make the place green.
Things to Do at Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park
Start your trip here with the The Visitors Centre.
Explore the park by using the walking trails.
Visit the outdoor museum.
Check out the native plant nursery.
Relax in cafes or shop for souvenirs.
7. Clock Tower
Visitor Information
Famous for: Shopping, History, Architecture.
Tickets: No fee.
Opening Timings: Open on all days from 10am to 9pm.
Duration: 2-3 hours.
About Clock Tower
Clock Tower is a famous landmark in the Old City. It was constructed by Maharaja Sardar Singh during his tenure between 1880 and 1911. The clock tower offers a good view of the fort. Sardar Market is adjacent to Clock Tower where a wide range of products is sold. You can find handicrafts, saris, spices, vegetables and a lot more. There are over 7000 shops and you can have a great shopping experience here.
Opening Timings: Open on all days from 5am to 12 pm & 4 pm to 9 pm.
Duration: 0.5 hour.
About Chamunda Mata Temple
Located inside Mehrangarh Fort, Chamunda Mata temple was built by Rao Jodha who was also the founder of Jodhpur. Built for protection against a curse given by an old sage, this temple is much revered by the people of the Rajasthan and houses the chief deity of Rajputs.
Things to Do at Chamunda Mata temple
Attend the evening aarti.
Get a stunning view of blue city and Umaid Bhavan.
Opening Timings: Open on all days (sunrise to sunset).
Duration: 2-2.5 hours.
About Balsamand Lake
Balsamand Lake is an artificial lake that was constructed by Balak Rao Parihar in 1159 AD. The lush greenery around the lake has mango groves, papaya groves and groves of guava, plum and pomegranate. Balsamand Lake Palace was intended to serve as summer resort for the royal family of Jodhpur. The lawns and gardens with birds and peacocks finding their homes here, the place is exquisite. The palace reflects Rajputana style of architecture. The palace turned heritage hotel was built of red sandstone.
Things to Do at Balsamand Lake
Visit the nearby gardens to view an artificial waterfall.
Picnic
Boat riding.
10. Masuria Hills Garden
Famous for: Photography,Gardens.
Tickets: No tickets for visiting.
Opening Timings: Open on all days ( after sunrise till sunset).
Duration: 1-2.5 hours.
About Masuria Hills Garden
Explore the stunning views of Jodhpur at Masuria Hills Garden. Situated on atop Masuria hill, which lies amidst the main city, this place it the ideal way to take a break from the hustle bustle of the main city. Go here if you want some quiet time alone and for some stunning sunset views.
Things to Do at Masuria Hills Garden
Catch some great city views.
Have a picnic with your family.
Eat at the nearby restaurant.
Other attractions include Ghantaghar (clock tower), Toor Ji Ki Baori, Chokelao Bagh, Mahamandir and the Bishnoi Village Safari.
Popular Places to Visit near Jodhpur
Jodhpur is a land of many marvels but a visit to some of its nearby places are not to be missed. Away from a less than a day’s journey, the following places are sure to make your visit to Jodhpur even more special and picture worthy.
The quaint city of Pali is home to many ancient temples, beautiful stepwells and gardens but perhaps it is well known for Om Banna Shrine. This shrine is dedicated to a deity in form of a motorcycle and has an interesting legend behind it. It receives many tourists passing through Pali as a visit here is believed to make your journey safe.
2. Osia
Distance from Jodhpur: 1 hr 34 min (67.3 km).
Also known as “Khajuraho of Rajasthan” for its temples, Osian is also an oasis in the sweltering Thar Desert. This ancient town is said to be centuries old and used to be an important trade center till it was attacked by the armies of Muhammad of Ghor in 1195. There are many attractions around like the architecturally magnificent Osiyan Temple and a visit here is highly recommended for everyone visiting Jodhpur.
A small village located enroute to Bikaner from Jodhpur, Khimsar is home to the majestic Khimsar Fort and the rustic Khimsar Dunes Village. Visitors can enjoy the architecture marvel of the fort or go for a desert safari on the sand dunes.
4. Phalodi
Distance from Jodhpur: 2 hr 45 min (142.1 km).
Known as the ‘Salt City’ due to the presence of salt related industries, Phalodi is famous for Lal Niwas, a haveli made completely of red sandstone and its interiors which provide a glimpse of the richness of its past residents. Other attractions include the Parasnath Jain temple, Phalodi Fort and Khichan bird.
Distance from Jodhpur: 3 hr (162.5 km).
A visit to Ranakpur is recommended for the famous Ranakpur Jain temple here. This famous Jain temple is a stunning example of architecture due to its sheer size and beautiful carvings all over the temple. It is dedicated to Tirthankara Adinatha and therefore is also an important pilgrimage for Jains. There is also a Sun Temple nearby.
Famously called the ‘Sun City’ and the ‘Blue City’, tourist places in Jodhpur brings back the days of the past. If you are passionate about things of the past, you will love the city that is rich in palaces, forts and museums. You could indulge yourself in a great purchasing spree as the city offers unique handicrafts, antiques, miniature elephants.
In Pushkar you can visit the following places.
1. Savitri temple 2. Pushkar lake 3. Brahma temple 4. Old Rangji temple 5. Pop Mochani (Gayatri) Temple 6. Varaha temple 7. Atmeshwar temple 8. Aptaeshwer temple 9. Maha deva temple 10. Shiva cloth center. stores for shopping 11. Gurdwara Singh Sabha and 12. Dharma camel safari
In Pushkar you can visit the following places.
1. Savitri temple
2. Pushkar lake
3. Brahma temple
4. Old Rangji temple
5. Pop Mochani (Gayatri) Temple
6. Varaha temple
7. Atmeshwar temple
8. Aptaeshwer temple
9. Maha deva temple
10. Shiva cloth center. stores for shopping
11. Gurdwara Singh Sabha and
12. Dharma camel safari