The one time capital of Rajputana state of Marwar, Jodhpur is the largest city of Rajasthan and among the most popular tourist places of the state. The city is bound to win you over with its colourful culture and mouth-watering delicacies. Among its many aliases, the most well-known one is the Blue City because of the countless blue houses in the Brahmin residency of Brahmapuri. A bird’s eye view of the city totally justifies its name. Tourism in Jodhpur is exceptionally colourful, painted more blue like its houses. Here is a travel guide of Jodhpur to help you ready your holiday plan.

By Air:

The airport is located 6 kms away from the city centre and has only domestic operations. The closest international airport is the Sanganer Airport at Jaipur. Jodhpur is connected to major metros in India via flight while indirect flights connect it to the Gulf as well as South-east Asia.

By Rail:

India’s massive rail network grants excellent connectivity to this beautiful tourist hub. From the budget traveller to the luxury traveller, there is a train that would fulfill each person’s needs. While on a budget, you could travel to Jodhpur by Rajasthan Sampark Kranti, Howrah Jodhpur SF Express, Chennai Jodhpur Express, Jaisalmer Delhi Express and Yesvantpur Bangalore Jodhpur Express. If you’re looking to splurge, hop onto the Palace On Wheels for a once in a lifetime experience.

By Road:

Rajasthan, arguably the most frequented state by tourists, has brilliant road connectivity within the state and with nearby places. The roads are extremely well maintained and are a pleasure to drive on. State run as well as private luxury and deluxe buses run on a daily basis connecting major cities of Rajasthan and neighbouring states. If you chose to drive, take the NH62, NH112 or NH114.

Located in the arid region of Rajasthan, there is very little difference in the climate all year round. Hence, you can choose when to visit depending upon the activities you want to do. While summers are very warm with scorching heat at mid-day, winters tend to be pleasant with warm days and chilly nights. Summers and monsoons are generally avoided by tourists; however, these seasons have some great discounts on offer. Winter is the best time to visit Jodhpur. 

Meherangarh Fort:

Part of the World Heritage sites of UNESCO, the majestic Meherangarh fort towers over the city of Jodhpur. Its base merges into the hilltop on which its situated giving it a unique look. If you’re lucky, you might even spot HH Maharaja Gaj Singh Ji and his family who still manage the royal affairs of the state from the Meherangarh Fort.

Umaid Bhawan Palace:

The Residence of HH Maharaja Gaj Singh and the royal family, Umaid Bhawan Palace is arguably the most regal of them all in Rajasthan. With the royal family staying in one wing of the palace, and the other two being converted into a royal museum and a luxury palace hotel, this is as close as you can get to the Rajput royalty.

Marwar Festival:

October is probably the best time to be in Jodhpur with the annual Marwar festival being held around this time. The city turns into a riot of colours and a cacophony of sounds of traditional musical instruments. With camel races, traditional dances and moustache competitions, this is a festival not to be missed.

Among the many luxurious restaurants with their different cuisines, Rajasthani cuisine still manages to stand apart. While in Jodhpur, we urge you to try the dishes of the royals. Jodhpur it famous for its Laas Maas, Dal Bati Churma, Ker Sangri, Lasan ki Chutney, Mawe ki kachori and Rawal ke Pyaaz ki Kachori. Make it a point to relish them all.

Street Markets: A stroll down the narrow lanes of Jodhpur’s colourful street markets will definitely appeal to the shopaholic in you. Visit the Kapra bazaar for traditional rajasthani fabrics, Mochi Bazaar for Jodhpur’s famous mojris, Ghanta Ghar Bazaar for almost everything you can think of, Sarafa Bazaar for antiques and silverware and Tripolia Bazaar for their locally made handicrafts.