Places to Visit in Jodhpur

Explore the best places to visit in Jodhpur with eRajasthan Tourism’s guide. Learn about the Jodhpur travel tips for a smooth journey.  

Introduction 

Located on the outline of Thar Desert, Jodhpur is a city in western Rajasthan, pulsating with colours, spirit, and fervour. The Sunlit city boasts a long standing history, vibrant culture, and deep-rooted traditions that have been beautifully preserved for centuries. Speaking of places to visit in Jodhpur, opulent palaces, robust bastions, centuries-old temples, memorials, and historic ruins adorn the cityscape.

Who founded Jodhpur? 

Jodhpur, formerly known as the Kingdom of Marwar, was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, a brave Rajput ruler of the Rathore clan. He commissioned military architecture, stood as a pivotal figure against the attacks of Delhi sultanate and created stability in the region.

After Rao Jodha, much of the fortification around Jodhpur city was done during the reign of Rao Maldeo who came to power in 1532. It’s only 4 days before India’s Independence, the last ruler of Jodhpur, Maharaja Hanwant Singh granted accession and merged his princely state with the Union of India on 11 August 1947. Ever since Jodhpur has been a significant Indian city from a historic, cultural and commercial standpoint.

10 Best Places to Visit in Jodhpur

Jodhpur, also known as ‘Blue City’ is the second biggest city in Rajasthan. The houses in Jodhpur are painted blue to keep them cool in sweltering heat. Blue colour also symbolises sky and divine protection. Apart from the eye-catching blue-toned houses, there are wonderful attractions in Jodhpur that delights diverse travellers.

The imposing citadels that dominate Jodhpur’s vista testifies the valour and military prowess of its erstwhile rulers. Opulent edifices such as Umaid Bhawan Palace and Jaswant Thada that are exemplary architectural masterpieces, inspire awe and wonder in the eyes of onlookers.

As you walk through the bazaars of Jodhpur, the aroma of spices and sweets permeates the air. The exquisite handicrafts such as glass bangles, cutlery, lacquerwork, marble stonework immediately captivates one’s attention. Echoes of folk songs and traditional instruments are heard even in the far flung corners of the city. There is so much to discover in this city that one needs an entire week. However, for those who are short on time, we have compiled a list of must-visit places in Jodhpur. Scroll down to read:

Mehrangarh Fort

Mehrangarh Fort is the most magnificent attraction in Jodhpur and is included in all Jodhpur itineraries. The imposing citadel is symbolic of the unwavering spirit, valour, and architectural wonder of Rajasthan. The elevated placement of the fort (400 ft above the plains) on the rocky hills adds more to its grand stature. Built with red sandstone and bathed in the morning sunlight, Mehrangarh Fort looks resplendent. The city’s founder Rao Jodha commissioned the construction of Mehrangarh Fort in 1459. The sprawling bastion later was expanded by subsequent rulers, which only enhanced its grandeur.

The fort boasts fortified walls and lofty seven gates (called pol in local language) carrying marks that offer a glimpse of the battles fought here. For many years, Mehrangarh Fort endured the attacks of invaders and protected its inhabitants. After victory over Mughals, the Fateh Pol was installed in the fort. The sheer number of attractions within the walls of Mehrangarh Fort makes it amongst  significant historical places to visit in Jodhpur. The key attractions for visitors are:

• Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace) – An expansive space where Raja Sur Singh held his court.
• Phool Mahal (Flower Palace) – A gilded palace where dance performances took place.
• Sheesh Mahal – The kaleidoscopic wonder of colourful mirrors and glasswork.
• Meharangarh Museum – It houses more than 15000 artifacts that take you back in time, including textiles, turbans, armoury, palanquin, tents, and sword of Mughal emperor Akbar.

The two significant religious sites in Mehrangarh Fort are Chamunda Mataji temple, Jodhpur’s most famous temple and Nagnechi Ji temple, dedicated to Nagnechi devi who is kuldevi (clan’s deity) for Rathores. If history, art, and architecture intrigues you, Mehrangarh Fort is a must-visit attraction in Jodpur.

Umaid Bhawan Palace

The palatial Umaid Bhawan Palace is hailed as one the top tourist places to visit in Jodhpur. Umaid Bhawan Palace perfectly captures the regal architectural heritage of Jodhpur. The mere sight of this opulent edifice will leave you in awe and wonder. In 1929, Maharaja Umaid Singh commissioned the construction of this palace and it took 16 years to complete its construction. Till this date, Umaid Bhawan Palace remains as one of the largest private residences in the country.

The architecture of Umaid Bhawan Palace reflects a blend of influences, namely Classical Revival, Art Deco, and Indo-Saracenic styles. The design and layout of the palace was carried out by Maharaja Umaid Singh and British architect Henry Vaughan Lanchester. The breathtaking interiors of the palace and embellished work shows the best of Rajasthani and European artistic styles.

A segment of Umaid Bhawan palace is private where the Royal Family of Jodhpur resides. Another portion of the palace has been turned into a heritage hotel and is managed by the Taj Group. The remaining space is for the museum, Durbar Hall, etc. which is open to the public. The Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum includes displays of vintage cars, and exhibits such as paintings, textiles, antique clocks, a gallery of items like furniture, dining sets, writing sets, etc.

Jaswant Thada

Known as ‘Taj Mahal of Marwar’, Jaswant Thada, a cenotaph built in 1899  in the memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh by his son Maharaja Sardar Singh Ji. In the Blue City, this architectural wonder shines as bright as a pearl. The white exteriors of Jaswant Thada look iridescent under the sunlight. The soothing white colour of Jaswant Thada comes from the Makrana marble that was used to build Taj Mahal in Agra.

This historical palace features intricate lattice (jali) work and depictions of former Marwar rulers. Beyond its mesmerising architecture, the palace also serves as a royal memorial ground dedicated to members of the royal family. This makes Jaswant Thada an important historic spot to visit in Jodhpur. You can stroll in the garden and watch the exquisite craftsmanship of the structures within the palace.

Once you enter the main halls, the sight of 12 delicately carved pillars catches your attention. The walls of the monument bear beautiful murals of Hindu gods and goddesses. The opulent chandelier illuminates the main hall. You also get to see the sweeping views of Mehrangarh Fort and the city from Jaswant Thada. This place is a must visit for those who cherish architectural wonders and history.

Clock Tower, Jodhpur

Ghanta Ghar or Clock Tower is an iconic landmark and tourist spot to visit in Jodhpur city. The Clock Tower is located in the bustling Sardar Market. (in the old part of the city). Maharaja Sardar Singh during his reign between 1880 and 1911 commissioned the construction of a clock tower. This clock tower was set up with an aim to keep Jodhpur  at par with other modern cities in the world of that time.

The Clock Tower installed in Jodhpur was similar to one in European cities. The structure became a timekeeper for the general public even before wrist watches or pocket clocks became an accessory for the masses. The architectural style of the Clock Tower is admirable with a  nuanced blend of Rajasthani and British influences. While you admire the glorious time keeper of Jodhpur, also explore colourful stalls of Sardar Market selling handcrafted jewellery, textiles, leather goods, and spices. You can also relish some delicious food items like samosa, ghevar, mawa kachoris, etc.

Mandore Garden

Among places to visit near Jodhpur, Mandore Garden is a popular tourist attraction. Long before Jodhpur became the capital of Rathores, Rao Jodha ruled from Mandore.  The Madore Gardens which is about 9 kilometers from Jodhpur was used as a memorial ground for Rajput kings and royal members.

The tall red-hued cenotaphs are examples of wonderful architecture and are akin to Hindu temples with refined lines and angles. Beyond cenotaphs, there are many attractions to explore within Madore Garden that can easily take 3 to 4 hours of your time. Tourists come here to witness the following attractions:

1. Ruins of Mandore Fort: Narrates the stories of a thriving capital of bygone era.
2. Halls of Heroes: Contains vivid statues of brave Rajput warriors all cut from single rock.
3. Temple of 300 Million Gods: Beautiful depictions of hindu gods and goddesses, all hand painted.
4. Mandore Garden Government Museum: Displays numerous artefacts and relics.

Ravana Temple: The only temple dedicated to Ravana in Rajasthan. Locals believe Ravana’s consort Mandodari belonged to Mandore.

Toorji Ka Jhalra Bavdi

One of the most picture-worthy tourist spots to visit in Jodhpur is Toorji Ka Jhalra Bavdi, which is a stepwell. The stepwell in Rajasthan showcases the architectural genius as well as human ingenuity in meeting the growing demands of water in an arid land. And the one in Jodhpur is no different. It was built in the 1740s under the reign of Maharaja Abhay Singh of Marwar. The word Jhalra means stepwell in local dialect and Toorji refers to the local community that lived nearby.

If observed closely, you will see depictions of gods, birds, animals, and mythical creatures on the stepwell which speaks volumes about the craftsmanship of local artisans. Toorji Ka Jhalra Bavdi is where you click one of the most instagrammable photos of your Jodhpur trip. The backdrop of stepwells, a pond and a few birds will add beautiful elements to your pictures.

There is no entry fee to visit Toorji Ka Jhalra Bavdi, hence it is among the free tourist places to visit in Jodhpur. The best time to explore Toorji Ka Jhalra Bavdi is early morning or after 4 PM.

Sardar Government Museum

Every history and cultural enthusiast should visit the Sardar Government Museum in Jodhpur. It is located on Rajasthan High Court road in the middle of Umaid Udhyan. The museum was constructed under the reign of Maharaja Umed Singh and named after Maharaja Sardar Singh, who ruled Jodhpur (1895 to 1911). The design and architectural layout of the museum was given to British architect Henry Vaughan Lanchester.

The artefacts and displays in Sardar Government Museum will transport you back in time. Wander and observe the exhibits in different galleries and sections such as General Gallery

Animal gallery, Industrial Section – I & II, Armoury Section, Sculpture Section. Historical Section and Mahaveer Section. They have an outstanding collection of stone sculptures, inscriptions, miniature paintings, terracotta and metallic objects, armoury, coins etc. There are also local arts, crafts, textile and other miscellaneous objects on the display.  After the museum visit, you can sit and relax in the garden area.

Balsamand Lake

Seeing a waterbody in an arid desert feels like a mirage. But thankfully, that is not the case with lakes in Jodhpur. And just like most lakes in Rajasthan, Balsamand Lake is also an artificial lake which was created as a reservoir for water supply to the nearby villages. This lake is located about 5 kilometres from Jodhpur and easily accessible via car or bus.  Balsamand Lake was built in the 13th century by Balak Rao Parihar and later a lush garden was built by Maharaja Jaswant Singh.

What started as a noble pursuit to quench the thirst of a populace, turned into a wonderful tourist attraction in Jodhpur. You can take a stroll on the surrounding pathways or unwind in the nearby garden replete with lush trees, shaded groves, and flowers. The waters of Balsamand Lake and the vegetation around it attracts beautiful birds and butterflies. There is also a mini zoon where one can spot animals like rabbits and peacocks.

Bishnoi Village

When we talk about Jodhpur’s diverse tourist experiences, a trip to Bishnoi Village is a must for travellers. This village is about 22 kms from the hustle and bustle of Jodhpur. It’s a place of calm and serenity where environmental preservation is paramount for the Bishnoi community. The Bishnoi community is among the largest pastoral communities in Rajasthan. They are committed to protecting nature, including plant and animal life and consider blackbuck as a sacred animal.

Bishoni Village is marked by Khejri trees and blackbucks roaming around. The locals are friendly, hospitable and love to share their way of life and cultural practices. You can enjoy a wildlife safari or stroll through the village to get a closer glimpse of the everyday life unfolding in the village. In Bishnoi Village, tourists get to witness a wonderful coexistence of humanity and nature without any conflicts.

What to do at Bishnoi Village?

Top activities to do on a Bishnoi village tour include visiting Guda Bishnoi Lake, Blackbuck Sanctuary, attending a pottery workshop and learning how to mould clay. Besides this, one can also try camel rides, try delicious Rajasthani cuisines (all vegetarian), learn traditional block printing and watch cultural performances in the evening. It’s advisable to visit Bishnoi village with a tour guide.

Machia Safari Park

For a wildlife excursion near Jodhpur, head to Machia Safari Park. This biological park is located 8.5 km from the centre of Jodhpur (near Kalayana Lake). The park is a satellite zoo of the old heritage zoo of Jodhpur. It spans an area of 41 hectares out of 604 hectares of Machiya Forest Block.

Watch the stunning wildlife roaming freely in the park. Deer, desert fox, desert lizards, are commonly spotted animals and reptiles in this park. It is also a safe haven for animals like mongoose, rabbits, wild cats, blue bulls etc. The main attraction of this park is elephant rides which gives a sweeping view of the park and birdwatching. There are also ruins of an old fort  (Machiya Fort) from where you can catch the amazing view of a sunset. Machia Safari Park is one of the best tourist places to visit in Jodhpur for wildlife viewing. The park remains closed on Tuesdays.

Things to Know Before Planning Jodhpur Trip

The Sunlit City Jodhpur is marked by many historical and cultural attractions. While attractions like Mehrangarh Fort and Jaswant Thada are examples of a rich history and architectural prowess, places like Bishnoi Village offer glimpses of a calm and slow rural life that operates harmoniously with nature. In the arid land of Jodhpur, artificial lakes  like Balsamand and stepwell such as Toorji Ka Jalra offer a soothing treat to the sore eyes. To explore all the beautiful tourist spots in Jodhpur, here are some of the tips you should keep in mind before planning your tour.

1. Jodhpur’s Weather 

Located on the edge of Thar desert, Jodhpur experiences hot days and cool evenings. The best time to plan a Jodhpur trip is from October to March when the weather is pleasant 14 to 26 degree Celsius. This is the peak tourist season when outdoor exploring is much easier and convenient. On the other hand, the summer season is excruciatingly hot when temperatures are up to 45 degree Celsius. While the monsoon season can bring some relief from sweltering weather, sudden rains can disrupt your sightseeing plans.

2. Transportation in Jodhpur 

Jodhpur is well-connected with the rest of Rajasthan via roads, railways and airways. To travel within Jodhpur, private cars, taxis (ola and uber), etc are the best option. For visiting attractions such as Sardar Market, you can take a quick auto ride but make sure to negotiate the price. Auto-rickshaw drivers may quote higher fare, so make sure you know about the correct fare. Group attractions together and plan your route accordingly. This will save your time and money.

3. Where to Eat in Jodhpur?

Jodhpur is a foodie’s heaven especially if you have a taste for spicy, aromatic, and flavour rich foods. From fine dining with elaborate menus to budget-friendly restaurants to street food, there are plenty of good places in Jodhpur where one can enjoy a meal. The following places have consistently rated well by customers and considered to be some of the best places to eat in Jodhpur:

• Gypsy Dining Hall
• Flamingo Restaurant
• Shri Mishrilal Hotel
• Surya Namkeen

4. Tourist Etiquette 

Please follow rules and guidelines while visiting certain attractions of Jodhpur. Dress modestly while visiting a temple. Make sure to follow photography rules as some attractions may allow it, while others prohibit it. Ask your tour guide/coordinator for additional information. Be respectful of local practices, do not disturb wildlife, especially when visiting places like Bishnoi Village.

Plan Your Jodhpur Trip & Explore its Tourist Gems

It can be rightly said about Jodhpur that the city is blue but your spirits won’t be! Each and every facet of Jodhpur is worth admiring. As the sun shines brightly in the sky, the narrow blue-painted lanes of Jodhpur provide a contrast of light and shadow. Every nook and corner becomes a photography hotspot.

Be it the majestic forts and palaces of Jodhpur or wildlife safari, at eRajasthan Tourism, we offer affordable Jodhpur tours in Rajasthan, covering the best tourist spots to visit in Jodhpur in 1 day or 2 days. Our well-planned itinerary covers 3-4 Jodhpur attractions that unfolds the culture, architecture and regal heritage of this city.