Jodhpur, the second largest city in Rajasthan (albeit pleasingly unspoilt by haphazard development), has a fascinating past. In case you were wondering, yes, it is where jodhpurs got their name from! These unusual pants were designed by the Maharaja of Jodhpur's son, Pratap Singh, and worn by his polo team when visiting the Queen of England in 1897. Jodhpur is famous for its blue buildings, which were originally painted to signify that they were occupied by Brahmins (the highest caste in India). These 10 Jodhpur attractions and places to visit will give you a diverse experience of the city.
1. Mehrangarh Fort
Getty Images/Michael Heffernan
The impregnable Mehrangarh Fort, which rises above the city, is one of the largest forts in India. As impressive as it is, as a well preserved heritage structure, there's so much more to discover inside. One of the highlights is the museum, which houses an outstanding collection of fine and applied arts from the Mughal period of Indian history. It even has the only professional museum shop in India. The Fort's ramparts are lined with antique artillery and offer a panoramic view of the "Blue City". Do allow plenty of time to visit the Fort -- you can spend hours wandering through it. Want a romantic evening dinner? The Chokelao Mahal Terrace restaurant serves traditional Rajasthani cuisine, while the city sparkles below. The Fort is also an evocative setting for music festivals. Don't miss the annual Rajasthan International Folk Festival in October and World Sufi Spirit Festival in February.
- Location: Above the Old City. The main entrance is at the northeast gate, Jaipol.
- Entry Cost: 400 rupees for foreigners and 60 rupees for Indians (discounts offered for students and senior citizens), plus 100 rupees for a still camera and 200 rupees for a video camera.
- Opening Hours: 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. daily.
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2. Jodhpur Flying Fox
Flying Fox
Adventure lovers can't pass up the unique opportunity to go zip-lining with Mehrangarh Fort as the backdrop. The circuit has six zip lines and takes around 1.5 hours to complete. Groups of up to 12 people depart at appointed times.
- Location: North side of Mehrangarh Fort.
- Entry Cost: Book online up to three days in advance and get discounted rates of 1,199 rupees for adults and 1,000 rupees for students.
- Opening Hours: Mid July until the end of May. Tours start daily at 9.30 a.m., 10.30 a.m., 11.30 a.m., 2.30 p.m., 3.30 p.m., 4.30 p.m., and 5.00 p.m.
3. Jaswant Thada
Getty Images/Tim Graham
This intricately crafted cenotaph (empty commemorative tomb) was built in 1899, in honor of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. It features white marble lattice screens and whimsical domes. The inside is adorned with portraits of Ranthore rulers. It's a peaceful place to relax and enjoy stunning views of the Fort and city. Many a tired tourist sprawls on the front lawn to recuperate after sightseeing!
- Location: 1 kilometer northeast of Mehrangarh Fort.
- Entry Cost: 30 rupees for foreigners and 15 rupees for Indians, plus 25 rupees for a still camera and 50 rupees for a video camera.
- Opening Hours: 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. daily.
4. Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park
Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park
The Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park was developed in 2006, with the aim of restoring the natural ecology of a large rocky wasteland area next to the Fort. Neglected for many years, it was overrun by an invasive thorny shrub. After the shrub was eradicated, over 80 native species of rock-loving plants from the Thar desert were grown there. The Park extends across 70 hectares (around 200 acres) of rehabilitated land and has a walking trail. It's interesting to explore at different times of the year, as its foliage changes with the seasons.
- Location: At the foot of Mehrangarh Fort. Enter from the Visitors' Center, 800 meters from the Fort's main gate.
- Entry Cost: 30 rupees for adults, 10 rupees for students.
- Opening Hours: 9.00 a.m. to 5.25 p.m. daily.
5. Clock Tower and Old City Markets
Getty Images/Maremagnum
A trip to Jodhpur wouldn't be complete without visiting the bustling Old City (many people choose to stay in it as well, as some of the best budget hotels in Jodhpur are located there and have fabulous Fort views). The Old City's famous landmark, the clock tower, stands at the heart of it -- and it's still working! Next to it, Sadar Market retains a traditional village bazaar feel. It's chaotic and colorful, and sells almost everything (including handicrafts, spices, saris and fabric). If you feel uncomfortable in crowds, you might prefer to take a walking tour rather than explore the market area yourself, as the congestion can be overwhelming.
6. Spice Paradise Cooking Classes
Spice Paradise
Spice Paradise is a spice shop that's run by a kindhearted husband and wife team (their special masala chai blend has been refined and perfected over the years, and is highly recommended). They also conduct Indian cooking classes, which are hugely popular with foreigners, in their humble kitchen. Along with delicious recipes, you'll get to meet a lovely family and gain priceless insight into Indian culture. If you don't have a lot of time in Jodhpur, do book in advance as classes are often full.
- Location: Girdi Kote, Amar Chowk, Jodhpur. It's just behind the Clock Tower.
- Cost: 1,000 rupees per person, for a three course meal. Classes are around 3-4 hours long.
- Contact: Email: anilkumar20042003@gmail.com
7. Janta Sweet Home
Janta Sweet Home
If you love not just Indian sweets but all kinds of Indian snacks, you'll definitely want to visit the iconic Janta Sweet Home, renowned for making some of the best treats in Jodhpur. They're fresh and delicious, and the range is huge. Try: the Mawa Kachori, a prestigious dish that originated from Jodhpur.
- Location: Nai Sarak, Ratanada, Jodhpur.
- Phone: (0291) 263-6666.
- Opening Hours: 6.30 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.
8. Sambhali Boutique
Sambhali Boutique
Sambhali Boutique is the perfect place to pick up some gorgeous, top quality, Jodhpur handicrafts and clothing (both Indian and western style), all made by underprivileged women who are taught and employed by the Sambhali Trust. Items include silk and cotton camels and elephants, block-printed scarves and curtains, and shoulder bags. Custom orders can also be placed. If you're looking for cheap accommodations, the Sambhali Trust operates from a very charming little guesthouse (the Durag Niwas Guest House) that's a hit with backpackers. Long-term stays with all meals provided are possible.
- Location: 1 Old Public Park Lane, Near K. N. Hall Girls College, RaiKa Bagh, Jodhpur.
- Phone: (0)98 28 089293 or (0291) 251-2385.
- Opening Hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
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9. Umaid Bhawan Palace
Getty Images/Adam Jones
The magnificent Umaid Bhawan Palace, completed in 1944, was one of the last great palaces to be built in India. The royal family of Jodhpur still occupies a section of it. Most of the remainder has been converted into a luxurious palace hotel and unfortunately, it's off-limits to anyone who's not staying there. If you can't afford $600+ per night for a room, you can still get a glimpse inside the palace by having an expensive dinner at one of its restaurants or visiting the museum. The museum mostly displays old photos of the Maharaja and his family. There's a vintage watch and car collection as well. If you're into that kind of thing, it's worthwhile going there. Otherwise, you may be disappointed as you'll get to see very little of the palace.
- Location: Airport Road, Jodhpur.
- Entry Cost: Museum entry fee is 50 rupees (free for hotel guests). Camera fee 30 rupees.
- Opening Hours: 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. daily.
10. Mandore and Mandore Gardens
Getty Images/Win Initiative
Mandore was the capital of the Marwar region before Jodhpur was founded but now it's in a sad state of disrepair. There's an old fort, as well as an eclectic collection of temples and cenotaphs, and a small museum, in the Mandore Gardens. It could be a really attractive tourist spot if it was properly maintained. The monuments are in ruins and garbage is often scattered around. It's still worth a visit though, for the amazing architecture and history of a bygone era. The best time to go is during the week, when it's quietest. If you love monkeys, you'll find plenty there!
- Location: 8 kilometers north of Jodhpur.
- Entry Cost: Gardens are free. Museum 50 rupees.
- Opening Hours: Gardens, daily from sunrise to sunset. Museum, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday to Thursday.
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