The second-largest city of Rajasthan, Jodhpur is a perfect blend of royalty and ethnicity. This city, also referred to as the ‘Sun City of India’ is widely known for the houses which are painted in blue. Hence, this city is popularly known as the blue city. It’s interesting how the state of Rajasthan has different cities which are famous for depicting the colours through their settlement.
Jodhpur is a must-visit city when in the largest state of India if you wish to be taken back in the princely era. The Sun City of India is decorated with palaces and forts, just like any other city in the city but there’s much more to Jodhpur. Below is a list of all the places to visit in Jodhpur and the best things to be done when in the blue city.
#1 Mehrangarh Fort
“The grandeur of Jodhpur”
The most explored forts by the tourists, this is the first place that the tourists choose to visit. Once the abode of the royals, this fort has now been turned into a museum that lives to tell the tales of the princely era. Being one of the largest forts in the country, it houses a number of mahals within, depicting the rich culture and heritage of the city.
Located on a hilltop of about 410 feet, you get a majestic view of the blue city below. The marvellous architectural work charms tourists from all over the world to visit here. Indian nationals are expected to pay a sum of Rs.60 for the entrance while international tourists are charged Rs.400 for the entry. Add this place to your bucket list as a must place to visit in Jodhpur.
#2 Things to do in Umaid Bhavan Palace
“Experience a royal life at the royal abode”
This is the last constructed palace in India and is known for its breathtaking architecture and designs. This palace is now divided into three sections, one of which has the royals residing in, one part is turned into a heritage hotel for tourists who wish to experience a royal life and one section is turned into a museum where pictures of the Maharaja and his family are on display. Just a stroll through the palace is enough to mesmerize you with the delicately carved intricate details on the walls.
#3 Bishnoi village
“Experience a humble life with the locals”
Be it a nature lover, art and crafts enthusiast or a typical traveller, there is something for everyone here. The Bishnoi Village is one such place that you shouldn’t skip for many reasons. From camel safari to desert excursion to village walks to cane spot, you can enjoy a lot of activities here within 3 to 4 hours only.
If you are tired of the regular palaces and forts, this wonderful destination will give you an experience of a lifetime. Safari tours and other private tours are organized here where you can live in luxury accommodations within the typical village settings. You get to catch a glimpse of the cultural life of Marwar to understand the heritage of the country. Bishnoi village is one the good places to visit in Jodhpur
P.S: The Bishnois are the people who are now protecting wildlife such as the blackbucks and antelopes from humans.
#4 Jaswant Thada
“Visiting a tomb of the royal”
A brilliant architectural landmark in the city, Jaswant Thada is a must-visit place in Jodhpur mainly because it offers a spectacular view of the majestic Mehrangarh Fort in the backdrop. Open between 9 am to 5 pm, Indians are charged Rs.15 while international tourists are charged Rs.30 for an entry. If you plan to take your camera along, pay a sum of Rs.25 while a sum of Rs.50 for a camcorder.
Jaswant Thada is a cenotaph or an empty commemorative tomb crafted in the honor of Maharaja Jaswant Singh. Built-in 1899, this cenotaph is decorated in white marbles and houses portraits of different kings inside. A perfect place to relax with the splendour view of the bigger Mehrangarh Fort, this is a must-visit place that should definitely go on your list.
#5 Balsamand Lake
“Spot an artificial lake amidst the red backdrop”
An artificial lake was created back in 1159 AD, this lake used to be a reservoir for the people of Mandore. Built by Balak Rao Parihar, this lake is a great attraction for tourists. Environed with lush greenery, the cool waters of the lake is a perfect setup amidst the natural brown and red hues, thus, a treat to the eyes.
To enhance the natural beauty of the lake, there is a royal pathway constructed that serves as an entrance to the lake. Later on, a palace was built next to the lake which, served as a royal residence back then. All these little factors make the Balsamand Lake worth a visit.
#6 Masuriya Hill Garden
“Relaxing in the lap of nature”
Tired from the usual temple and palace hopping in Jodhpur, you can visit the Masuriya Hill Garden for relaxation purposes. An ideal place for a tiny family picnic or a place to relax, this park is a charming one, which will allow you an entry at Rs.10 per person between 7 is to 9 pm. The statue of Maharana Pratap is a major attraction in the garden where you can also view beautiful sunsets that sets upon the magnificent blue town. Though not an exclusive thing to do in Jodhpur, this garden is perfect to have leisure time in the city.
#7 Sardar Samand Lake
“Time to spot the vivid fauna”
Jodhpur is more than just a city of palaces. The various lakes in the city give you an opportunity to explore the other side of Rajasthan. Built in 1159 AD by Gurjara-Pratihara rulers, Sardar Samand Lake is one such place redefining the city of Jodhpur. Apart from being a retreat getaway from the busy metropolitan life, you will be lucky to spot a number of vivid fauna here. Take out your cameras to capture exotic animals like blackbucks, chinkara and Neel gaai along with various birds that flock here.
#8 Machiya Safari Park
“Head out to explore the wilderness”
For the nature lover in you, the Machiya Safari Park is a great place to visit, which is situated at a distance of 8.5kms from the Jodhpur junction. This is a perfect place to visit if you want to spot some of the rare wildlife in Jodhpur. Animals like blue bulls, desert foxes, deer, monitor lizards, rabbits, wild cats and mongooses can easily be spotted here in their natural habitat.
Exclusive bird watching points are located in the park for avid bird watchers. An astonishing fact about this park is that there is a fort inside, which offers a spectacular view of the blue city. Indian tourists have to pay Rs.30 per person while international tourists are charged Rs.300. Taking your camera inside will cost you an additional Rs.80 while a camcorder will cost Rs.200.
#9 Chand Baori
“The largest step well in the world”
Built by King Chanda around the 9th century, Chand Baori is a stepwell in the Abhaneri village, about 95 km from Jaipur. This is one of the largest steps well in the world and the most beautiful one. For the purpose of water harvesting, this wall was built 64 feet deep with 13 floors, making it the largest and deepest in the country.
The precise geometrical pattern of this lake is not easily spotted in this era. The stairs enclose the water on three sides of the rectangular courtyard while the fourth side gloats of a pavilion having three stories with galleries and sculptures. You will be fascinated to know that a scene from the renowned movie.
#10 Camel safari
“Visit the Thar on a camel”
Take a break from the routine of your life and hop on to a camel for a desert safari. Explore the calm sand dunes on a three-hour ride that will take you across the Thar desert. The best time to go on a camel safari would be just before the sunset so that you get a chance to capture the wonderful sunsets, painting the sky in various hues.
Also Read –
- 9 best places to visit in Chittorgarh in 2019
- Parasailing, Paramotoring & great things to do in Jaisalmer
- 13 Best Things to do in Jaipur, Forget the Mahals and Palaces
- 10 Best Things to do in Jodhpur, Rajasthan
- 9 Things to do in Udaipur
- 20 Best Places to visit in Rajasthan
To make your Jodhpur visit a memorable one, get in touch with us at info@adventourist.in and we will provide you with the needed information. For the best tourist attractions to visit in Chittorgarh, reach out to us on Whatsapp and we will be happy to help.
Great list, thanks!