What to Do in Jodhpur: The Blue City

Jodhpur was the fourth city we explored in India, right after the vibrant atmosphere of Jaipur and the magnificence of the Taj Mahal in Agra. As we approached, its reputation as the “Blue City” became increasingly evident. Located in the Thar Desert, Jodhpur offers a fascinating contrast between its historical past and contemporary life, with a rich cultural heritage evident at every turn.

Known as the “Blue City,” Jodhpur earned this title from the tradition of Brahmins painting their houses blue, creating a unique and picturesque landscape that still dominates the old city today. With its imposing Mehrangarh Fort, magnificent palaces, and bustling markets, Jodhpur is a true paradise for travelers seeking cultural immersion and breathtaking views.

We spent two full days exploring Jodhpur, discovering its wonders and soaking in the city’s charm. In this guide, we’ve gathered valuable tips on what to do in Jodhpur, how to explore its main attractions, where to stay, and some suggestions to make your experience unforgettable. Ready to uncover the charms of this captivating city?

How to Get to Jodhpur

We arrived in Jodhpur on a daytime train from Jaipur. We traveled in 2AC, with a bed, and even though it was during the day, it was quite a comfortable experience, allowing us to relax. If you want to know more about how to buy train tickets in India, check out our detailed guide where we explain everything.

Other Ways to Get to Jodhpur

Bus

There are several bus companies connecting Jaipur to nearby cities, including Agra, Delhi, and Udaipur. Buses range from economy to luxury air-conditioned services, making it a practical and affordable option. For example, the journey from Agra to Jaipur can take about 5 to 6 hours. Check out the various bus options to Jaipur.

Private Car or Taxi

If you prefer greater comfort and flexibility, you can choose to rent a car in India or hire a taxi. This option allows you to stop at points of interest along the way and enjoy a more personalized journey. The distance between Agra and Jaipur is approximately 240 km, and the trip takes around 4 to 5 hours. Be mindful of the traffic and driving style in India before making your decision. Check out the various car rental options in India.

Airplane

For those coming from farther cities like Mumbai or Bangalore, flying to Jaipur is a convenient option. Jaipur International Airport is well-connected and offers regular flights. Once you arrive, you can catch an Uber or a bus to the city center. Check out the various flight options to Jaipur.

What to Do in Jodhpur?

Mehrangarh Fort

Two things left us in awe: the panoramic view over Jodhpur and the architectural beauty, both outside and inside. Entry is ticketed, and you can buy tickets online or at the entrance – the audioguide was sufficient for us, but there are also guides available. The palace is vast, and the museum is filled with Indian art and history, taking about 2 to 3 hours. There are cafes offering water and snacks at reasonable prices. We arrived on foot, and the final climb is worth it for the stunning views of the city.

Jaswant Thada

From the fort, we headed to Jaswant Thada, just a 10-minute walk to the left from the entrance. This white marble memorial was built in honor of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II and looks like a jewel shining in the arid landscape. Entry is ticketed (50 rupees per person), and we purchased tickets at the entrance. Besides the detailed architecture, the place is special for the serenity of its gardens, which surround the memorial and create a uniquely peaceful atmosphere. We took a moment to relax and soak in the incredible view of Mehrangarh Fort in the distance.

Stepwell Square (Toorji Ka Jhalra)

We visited the Stepwell twice, and it instantly won us over. The first time, we had lunch at a nearby cafe, as it was along the way. On our second visit, we explored more thoroughly. The steps leading down to the well are impressive, and we were lucky to see local boys jumping from incredible heights into the water. The Stepwell is not only a pleasant spot but also super photogenic – perfect for capturing Jodhpur’s unique architecture and vibrant colors.

Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar) and Sardar Market

When we arrived in Jodhpur, our Uber dropped us off right at the entrance to the Sardar Market area. At night, the atmosphere there is magical, with the Clock Tower in the center setting the market’s frenetic rhythm. During the day, we returned to explore more calmly and see the area from another perspective. Sardar Market is a labyrinth of colors and sounds, full of life and energy, perfect for getting lost among its corners. The Clock Tower remains the true mark of the city, a constant presence that connects Jodhpur’s history to its modern pulse.

Enjoy a City Rooftop

We could recommend a specific rooftop, but the truth is that most of them are quite similar in terms of cuisine. What truly makes the difference here are the views! Whether overlooking the fort or the city, each terrace offers a unique perspective of Jodhpur. So, choose based on the view you want to enjoy, and let yourself be enchanted by the sunset magic over Mehrangarh Fort. Check below, in the “Where to Eat” section, to see the rooftops we tried.

Explore the Blue City

The Blue City of Jodhpur, located near Mehrangarh Fort, is famous for its blue-painted houses. This tradition started in the 15th century with the Brahmins, who used blue to distinguish themselves from the rest of the population. Besides being a status symbol, the color helps keep the houses cool and repels mosquitoes. Today, this area is one of the most photogenic in the city, with narrow, colorful streets that transport you to another time. Exploring the Blue City is a unique and immersive experience full of history and charm.

Shop for Local Items and Souvenirs

If you love bringing authentic souvenirs from your travels, Jodhpur is a true paradise! There are vibrant markets and local shops throughout the city, perfect for finding unique pieces. But if you don’t have the patience to haggle or prefer to know the fixed price from the start, there’s a great option: the National Handloom Corporation. This store offers a wide variety of typical items, like fabrics, crafts, and souvenirs, all at fixed prices. This way, you get the essence of local markets without the stress of negotiations.

Where to Stay in Jodhpur

When it comes to choosing where to stay in Jodhpur, the city offers a variety of options for all budgets and preferences. From historic palaces to modern hotels, each area has something special to offer. Let’s explore the three best areas to stay in Jodhpur and some hotel recommendations that promise an unforgettable stay.

Old City (Blue City)

The Old City, or “Blue City,” is Jodhpur’s historic center, famous for its blue-painted houses and traditional markets. Staying here allows you to explore iconic attractions, like Mehrangarh Fort and the bustling Sardar Market, just minutes away on foot. This area is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in local culture and feel Jodhpur’s vibrant energy.

• Budget Option: Dev Koti – Dev Koti is a cozy and budget-friendly choice, ideal for travelers seeking authenticity and comfort. With a fantastic terrace overlooking Mehrangarh Fort, it’s the perfect place to relax at the end of the day, savoring a good meal and watching the sunset over the city. The laid-back atmosphere and friendly hosts make Dev Koti an excellent choice for a local experience.
• Mid-Range Option: Pal Haveli – This boutique haveli-style hotel offers spacious, traditionally decorated rooms for an authentic experience. Located in the heart of the Blue City, Pal Haveli has a rooftop restaurant with views of Mehrangarh Fort, perfect for enjoying a local meal.
• Luxury Option: RAAS Jodhpur – One of the best luxury hotels in the Old City, RAAS Jodhpur combines modern elegance with traditional architecture. This hotel offers a spectacular view of the fort, a relaxing pool, and an acclaimed restaurant. Every detail is designed to provide an unforgettable stay.

Near Mehrangarh Fort

Staying near Mehrangarh Fort allows for a direct connection to one of the city’s most important attractions. With hotels and guesthouses offering incredible views of the fort and a serene atmosphere, this area is perfect for those seeking some peace and quiet while remaining close to the sights.

• Budget Option: Yogi’s Guest House – Yogi’s Guest House provides a budget-friendly and comfortable stay, with a family-friendly environment and a fantastic rooftop restaurant. The rooms are simple yet cozy, and the service is known for its friendliness and hospitality.
• Mid-Range Option: The Arch Boutique Home Stay – This charming and well-decorated bed & breakfast offers a welcoming and personalized stay. With views of Mehrangarh Fort and attentive service, The Arch is perfect for those seeking tranquility.
• Luxury Option: Indana Palace Jodhpur – Just minutes from the fort, Indana Palace is a luxury hotel that offers a high-end experience. With spacious rooms, a pool, a spa, and multiple dining options, the hotel combines modern comfort with Indian architectural influences.

Circuit House Road

Circuit House Road is a more modern and tranquil area, ideal for those who prefer a calmer environment while still staying close to Jodhpur’s center. This area offers a wonderful view of Mehrangarh Fort and has a good selection of mid- to high-range hotels.

• Budget Option: Govind Hotel – Govind Hotel is a great option for budget travelers, with simple yet comfortable rooms and a homey restaurant serving authentic Indian food. It’s located a short distance from major attractions.
• Mid-Range Option: Park Plaza Jodhpur – A mid-range hotel with good amenities such as a pool, restaurant, and gym. Park Plaza is a convenient choice for those wanting a comfortable stay near major attractions, offering great value for money.
• Luxury Option: Umaid Bhawan Palace – One of the most luxurious palaces in Jodhpur, Umaid Bhawan Palace provides an extraordinary experience. With stunning architecture, lush gardens, and impeccable service, this hotel is perfect for an exclusive and unforgettable stay.

These three areas provide a range of options for all tastes and budgets. No matter where you choose to stay, Jodhpur offers excellent hospitality and comfort, always with a touch of authentic Indian culture.

Where to Eat in Jodhpur

Exploring Jodhpur also means discovering its unique flavors and the best spots to soak up the city’s atmosphere. During our days here, we compiled a list of our favorites. Join me in getting to know some of the places that left a lasting impression on us.

Dev Koti Restaurant

Imagine this: the sun setting on the horizon, lighting up Mehrangarh Fort and the blue city in the distance. At Dev Koti, this is how we ended two of our days in Jodhpur. The restaurant, located on our accommodation’s rooftop, became the perfect spot for relaxed dinners with a breathtaking view. The food was good, and the atmosphere magical – isn’t that enough to convince you?

Stepwell Café

This place feels like it stepped out of a movie. The interior has a very special vibe, and the view? The incredible Stepwell, one of the city’s highlights. We stopped here for a quick and light lunch, perfect for recharging without losing our sightseeing momentum. It’s a must-visit spot to soak in Jodhpur’s charm.

The Man Cave

If you’re looking for a laid-back space with a mix of international and local dishes, The Man Cave is the place to be. It features a terrace with a lovely view of the city and the fort, and the atmosphere makes you want to linger. The vibe is great, and we ended up relaxing there, enjoying the food and the scenery.

The Coffee Shop by Musafir

For coffee lovers – like us! – this stop is a must. The Coffee Shop by Musafir was one of our favorite discoveries in Jodhpur for a quality espresso. The space is cozy, with an inviting ambiance for a quiet break, perfect for planning the rest of the day or simply enjoying the moment.

These were our culinary retreats in Jodhpur. Each had its own magic, and all left a piece of themselves with us. When you pass through Jodhpur, give them a try – and then tell me all about it!

General and Safety Tips

Safety Tips in Jodhpur

• General safety: Jodhpur is generally a safe city. However, as anywhere, stay alert and avoid deserted areas.
• Interacting with locals: Our experience showed that people here are not intrusive, and a simple “no” is easily respected.
• Beware of scams: As in many tourist destinations, it is crucial to be aware of scams. Stay informed and avoid common traps.
• Water and street food: Whenever possible, drink bottled water and check the hygiene of street food stalls.
• Travel insurance: Our Heymondo insurance proved essential to protect us in case of unforeseen events. Besides covering travel changes, it helped us with health situations like food poisoning.
• Connectivity: Stay connected at all times with Holafly eSIMs, offering unlimited data so you're always reachable and safe. From our experience, Holafly was incredibly simple to set up and let us browse without worries about limits or connection failures, making it the perfect choice for stress-free travel. And now, you can even get 5% off your travel eSIM from Holafly! If needed, contact the police at number 100.
• Transportation: In transportation, like Uber, you may be asked to pay extra in cash. In case of disputes, call the police to resolve the situation.

General Tips in Jodhpur

• Best time to visit: Summer in Jodhpur can be scorching. The shoulder seasons are a more comfortable option for exploring the city at a leisurely pace.
• Local etiquette: When speaking with locals, we were advised to wear long pants and avoid sleeveless tops, especially in sacred places. This simple gesture shows respect for the local culture and etiquette.
• Accommodation and travel desks: All hotels in India have a travel desk, where you can organize activities and transport at more affordable rates. For example, in Jodhpur, we booked our transport to Udaipur directly through our accommodation.
• Bargaining at markets: Take the opportunity to bargain at the markets. It’s a common practice, but always with respect, of course.
• Photos and etiquette: Always ask for permission before photographing people or religious sites. In some places, there may be an additional fee for taking photos.
• Tuktuks and local transport: If you choose to take a tuktuk, agree on the price before boarding and always carry change. You can also book an Uber.

These tips will help you explore Jodhpur with safety, respect for the local culture, and comfort! Enjoy your trip to the fullest!

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