Top Places to Visit in Jodhpur

Exuding royalty and flamboyance, Jodhpur is a unique city in Rajasthan offering an interesting range of Jodhpur attractions. Stroll through its winding medieval streets leading to the ruins of historic forts and palaces creating an amazing ambience for visitors. Its skyline is dominated by the famous and fantastic Mehrangarh Fort, and it is aptly called the Blue City as most of the houses and buildings here are painted in blue. This 15th-century city served as the capital of Mewar and was founded by Rajput ruler Rao Jodha. It also boasts of such a royal abode which is known across the world. The royal game like Polo has been strongly associated with Jodhpur for ages. Don’t stereotype about Jodhpur that it is just the Mehrangarh Fort, there is much more to this destination. The more you explore this destination, the more fascinated you will be! Well, we have got some of the must-visit places in Jodhpur on your Jodhpur tour.

Mehrangarh Fort: The insurmountable masterpiece

Set atop a hill about 410 feet above the rest of the city, Mehrangarh Fort is enchanting both from the outside and inside. It is one of the largest and best-preserved forts of Rajasthan boasting of fortified walls that enabled it to defend itself and had many victories in the past. Within its imposing walls are the beautiful palaces with intricate detailing, gardens, brilliant galleries replete with royal artefacts and the Chamunda Mata temple. Its architectural brilliance deserves special mention. It is one of the most important monuments of the Marwar history. Built by Rao Jodha in 1459. To add more adventure, you can also enjoy zip-lining activities available at the Fort

Jaswant Thada: The royal memorial

It is a cenotaph built in precious white marble to pay homage to the courageous heroes of the royal Marwar army. It has fine intricate detailing that attracts attention. It is a fascinating architectural landmark in Jodhpur. It was built by Maharaja Sardar Singh in the 19th century.

Umaid Bhawan Palace: The grand of the grandest

As you catch the first glimpse of Umaid Bhawan Palace, you will be astonished with its grandness! It is one of the largest royal residences in the world. Built in golden-yellow sandstone, this palace is the epitome of architectural beauty. The royal family of Marwar still resides in this palace and some portion of it is a museum and the remaining has been converted into a heritage hotel by Taj. Explore its museums for royal artefacts transcending various eras, and the garden housing the vintage car collection owned by the Maharajas.

Arna-Jharna Museum: Unique presentation of history

Sprawling across 10 km, the Arna-Jharna Museum is an interesting museum set in the open desert rather than walled space. The word Arna Jharn means forest and spring. Its artefacts reflect the rich history, culture and cuisine of Rajasthan. Here you can see different varieties of brooms belonging to different village communities of Rajasthan. It depicts the rural lifestyle of the villages, and music and dance performances are also held here. Located in the village of Moklawas, this museum was established in 2000 by Rupayan Sansthan and envisioned by the known folklorist and ethnomusicologist Padam Bhushan Komal Kothari.

Balsamand Lake and Garden: A relaxing retreat

The serene waters of the lake and gorgeous green views of the garden are a treat for the soul. It is an artificial lake located amidst a well-manicured garden teeming with payapa, mango, guava, pomegranate, plum and many other exotic flowers and trees. The sights of peacocks and jackals are common in this garden. It was founded in 1159 by Balak Rao Parihar. There is a heritage hotel called Bal Samand Palace located near the lake which offers royalty of the bygone era in plenty.

Bishnoi Village: The blend of nature and tradition

Visit this small village near Jodhpur (around 22 km) to experience wonderful cultural activities. Here you can enjoy camel trek, cane spotting, desert excursion, village walk, etc. You will get to see beautiful arts and crafts in this village. It is a perfect place to experience the village lifestyle.  Bishnoi village is home to the Bishnoi tribes known for their true love for wildlife. It is the Bishnoi community that earned the title of First Environmentalists of India for their love for wildlife. Don’t be surprised if you come across a Bishnoi woman feeding baby animals like deer off their breast on your village tour.

Machiya Safari Park: Adventure unlimited

If you are a wildlife enthusiast, then Machiya Safari Park is the must-visit tourist attraction of Jodhpur. It is home to a variety of exotic birds and animals such as blackbuck, tiger, crocodile, deer, blue bull, desert fox, etc. You can even plan a stay at the Park’s camp to experience the wilderness from close quarters. There is a Machai Fort inside the Park which offers breathtaking views of sunset from the top. Go for a safari to enjoy the wilderness to the fullest.

Chamunda Mata Temple: Divine Blessings

It is one of the most revered temples of Jodhpur where the locals as well as tourists come in great numbers. The sanctum santorum houses the idol of Goddess Chamunda which was brought here from Mandore by Rao Jodha in 1460. She is the Isht Devi (main deity) of Jodhpur royals.

Sardar Government Museum: Historic Delights

Showcasing the rich heritage of the Marwar region of Rajasthan, the Sardar Government Museum is the perfect place to discover the glorious history of Jodhpur. Located amidst Umaid Garden, the museum displays an extensive and exquisite collection of miniature paintings, weapons, textiles, portraits of rulers, local arts and crafts, ancient manuscripts, etc.

Mandore Gardens: A mix of rejuvenation and history

It is a beautiful garden housing an ancient temple, a museum, exquisitely carved cenotaphs of Maharajas of Jodhpur and a Hall of Heroes with amazing paintings, sculptures and artefacts. It is located in Mandore, only 9 km from Jodhpur. It is a historic site with the Ravana Temple and it is in the town of Mandore where the demon king Ravana got married to his wife Mandodari. There are also the ruins of the Mandore Fort in this garden, built in the 6th century.

Jodhpur tourism has a lot to offer to its visitors and the above-mentioned places are the must-visit tourist destination that must occupy your Jodhpur tour itinerary.

How to Reach Jodhpur

Jodhpur is easily accessible by air, rail and road as it is well connected to all the cities of Rajasthan and the major cities of India.

By Air: Jodhpur Airport is a domestic airport located 5 km from the city centre. It is well connected to the major cities of India through regular flights. Some of the major cities include Delhi, Jodhpur, Jaipur, Mumbai, Kolkata, Pune, Goa, Chennai, Chandigarh, Surat, Hyderabad and Ahmedabad. The nearest international airport is in Jaipur, 339 km away. 

By Rail: Jodhpur city is very well connected to all the major cities of Rajasthan and India such as Jaipur, Jodhpur, Delhi, Chandigarh, Mumbai, Patna, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Goa, Lucknow and many more. 

By Road: Jodhpur is well connected to the major cities of Rajasthan and the country by road. Apart from driving down/cab, one can opt for luxury Volvo buses from Delhi and other cities to reach Jodhpur.

Best time to Visit Jodhpur

The perfect time to visit Jodhpur is winter (from October to February) as it feels pleasant and one can easily roam around comfortably. Summers (March to June) are quite hot here.