If you’re planning a trip through Rajasthan, you’ve likely heard of the ‘Big Three’: the Pink City of Jaipur, the Golden City of Jaisalmer, and the White City of Udaipur. But nestled right in the middle—acting as the heart of the Marwar region—is the second-largest city in the state and my personal favorite: Jodhpur, the Blue City.
Well, I am quite admittedly ‘those people’ that say one of the best things to do in Jodhpur is to just admire (and photograph) the BLUE. It is incredible and truly as the many photos depict.
Jodhpur is another of those places in India where history feels like a living, breathing thing. From the gargantuan Mehrangarh Fort that towers over the city to the labyrinthine blue alleyways that look exactly like the photos and that smell of spices (and cow dung), it is an essential stop on any Indian itinerary.
Because we’ve spent so much time exploring this corner of Rajasthan (with our boys in tow!), we’ve put together this ultimate guide to help you navigate Jodhpur.
Whether you’re here for the architecture, the food, or just the aesthetic – and BLUE – here is everything you need to know about the Best Things To Do in Jodhpur.
- About Jodhpur
- Planning Your Trip to Jodhpur
- Things To Do in Jodhpur
- Getting There
- Getting Around
- Tips For Jodhpur
- Where To Stay in Jodhpur
Why is Jodhpur Blue?
The first thing everyone asks is: Exactly how blue is it?
If you’re expecting a Moroccan-style Chefchaouen where every single brick is painted sapphire, you might be a little disappointed.
Jodhpur is famously blue too; but more selectively blue.
The concentrated indigo areas are mostly found in the Old City, specifically in the neighborhood of Navchowkiya, situated on the southwest slope of the fort.
The Origin Story
There are many theories, and even our local guide couldn’t give us one single truth.
- The Brahmin Theory: Historically, Brahmins (the priestly caste) painted their houses blue to distinguish themselves and show devotion to Lord Shiva, whose color is blue.
- The Termite Theory: Some locals claim that copper sulfate was added to the whitewash to repel termites, which reacted to create a blue tint.
- The Coolness Factor: Blue is said to reflect heat, helping the houses stay a few degrees cooler during the brutal Rajasthani summers.
Whatever the reason, looking down from the fort ramparts onto that sea of blue is an experience you won’t forget. 🙂
Planning Your Trip to Jodhpur
Jodhpur is a great (and iconically photogenic) addition to any India itinerary. But before getting into all those beautifully blue things to do in Jodhpur, these are a few tips for planning.
When to Visit
About the best time to visit Jodhpur and Rajasthan:
- The Sweet Spot (Nov–Feb): Winter is the best time. Days are around 25°C (77°F) and the nights are crisp. This is perfect for walking the hilly terrain.
- The Scorcher (March–June): Avoid this if possible. Temperatures soar above 40°C (104°F). If you must visit, do your sightseeing at 7:00 AM and hide in the AC by noon.
- The Monsoon (July–Aug): The desert gets a splash of green, which is beautiful, but the humidity rises and mosquitoes are a thing to take note about.
Getting There and Around
Jodhpur is well-connected by air and rail.
- By Train: Jodhpur Junction (JU) is a major hub. We recommend taking the morning trains from Jaipur (about 6.5 hours).
- By Air: The airport has direct flights to Delhi and Mumbai.
- Getting Around: In the Old City, Auto-Rickshaws are your best friend. The streets are too narrow for cars. However, the best way to see the blue is on foot!
Read more about Travel By Bus In India.
9 Best Things to Do in Jodhpur
Ready? These are the Best Things To Do in Jodhpur.
1. Mehrangarh Fort
This is not just a fort; it’s a masterpiece!
Perched 120 meters above the city on a sheer cliff, it is one of the best-preserved and most impressive forts in all of India.
But unlike the crowded forts of Jaipur, Mehrangarh feels spacious and organized.
We recommend walk all the way to the back ramparts (past the temple) for the most iconic Blue City photo opportunity.
- Tip: Your entry ticket (600 INR) includes an excellent audio guide. Use it! It brings the history of the Rajput kings to life.
2. Toorji Ka Jhalra (The Stepwell)
This 18th-century stepwell was only recently restored after decades of being filled with rubbish. Today, it is a stunning piece of geometric architecture.
You’ll see local kids jumping into the water to escape the heat, and it’s a great spot to grab a coffee at the nearby Stepwell Café while you admire the view.
3. Explore the ‘Real’ Blue Streets of Navchowkiya
There is lots of BLUE about the things to do in Jodhpur!
But don’t just stick to the Clock Tower area. Head into the Navchowkiya district. This is where you’ll find the deepest blues and the most authentic local life.
Don’t expect them all to be entirely blue all over the city. (You might be disappointed).
But a wander through the network of blue laneways is one of the best things to do in Jodhpur.
- Tip: The light is best here in the early morning (around 7:30 AM) when the streets are quiet and the blue pops against the morning sun. Gavin went out for an amazing early morning walk!
4. Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park
Located right next to the fort, this park was created to restore the natural ecology of the rocky wasteland.
We had heard about this and ended up booking a walking tour that started in the Rock Park – which we recommend!
It is a cool place to start a Walking Tour of Jodhpur.
- Tip: Go at 7:00 AM when it opens. It’s a peaceful 45-minute walk through volcanic rock trails with incredible views of the fort.
5. Sadar Market & The Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar)
This is the chaotic heart of Jodhpur. The market is a sensory overload of spices, textiles, and street food.
We loved seeing the different stalls that are just the typical hustle and bustle of an Indian market. Everyone just goes about their day as they have always done – though it looks like it could be set up for a photo shoot! India is incredible like that.
- The Famous Omelette Man: Just outside the gate is a tiny stall that has gained worldwide fame for its spicy masala omelettes.
- The Best Lassi: Seek out Shri Mishrilal Hotel inside the market for their legendary saffron-infused ‘Makhania Lassi’ – it’s thick enough to eat with a spoon!
6. Jaswant Thada
Known as the ‘Taj Mahal of Marwar’, this is a milky-white marble cenotaph (memorial) built for Maharaja Jaswant Singh II.
It’s located on a small lake just a short walk or rickshaw ride from the fort.
It’s incredibly peaceful and offers a different perspective of the city’s skyline.
7. Mandore Gardens
Located about 9km outside the city center, Mandore was the ancient capital before Jodhpur was built. The gardens are filled with stunning high-roofed cenotaphs and temples.
- Warning: There are lots of monkeys here! Keep your snacks hidden – and don’t make eye contact…
8. Shri Gangashyam Ji Mandir
This is one of the oldest and most beautiful Hindu temples in the city, dedicated to Lord Krishna.
The carvings are intricate, and if you visit during the morning walking tour, you can hear the fascinating stories of the queens who used to travel from the fort to pray here.
9. Try the Jodhpur Must-Eats
Jodhpur is famous for its street food.
Beyond the lassi and omelettes, you have to try:
- Pyaaz Kachori: A spicy onion-filled pastry that is a Jodhpur staple.
- Mirchi Bada: Large green chilies stuffed with potato and deep-fried in batter. It’s spicy, but so worth it!
Where to Stay in Jodhpur
We always recommend staying in the Old City or near the Clock Tower to be within walking distance of the action.
- Heritage Havellis: Look for traditional Havelli’s (historic mansions) turned into boutique hotels. They often have rooftop restaurants with stunning views of Mehrangarh Fort.
- Budget Stays: There are dozens of affordable guest houses in the Navchowkiya area that offer a real local experience.
Places To Stay in Jodhpur
- Budget: Raj Mandir Boutique Homestay
Good location in Blue City, spacious room with small balcony inside Haveli style home. Tiny little doors, lots of unique decor and artefacts. This is where we stayed! - Budget: Hotel Bawarri Haveli
Friendly, budget Haveli-style accommodation with a rooftop restaurant and less than 1km away from the Stepwell. - Budget-Mid-Range: Jewel Palace Haveli
Located just 400 metres from Mehrangarh Fort offering the chance to stay in a traditional converted Haveli at a budget-friendly price. - Hostel: Zostel Jodhpur
Located well in the city’s heart overlooking Mehrangarh Fort and adjacent to the Clock Tower offering haveli-inspired architecture for backpackers. - Luxury: Umaid Bhawan Palace
Want to try some serious luxury? This one of the world’s largest private residences!
Insider Tips for Travellers
- The Staring Culture: As mentioned in our “What to Wear” guide, people will stare. It’s usually harmless curiosity. Wear your modest Kurtas and sunglasses, walk with confidence, and you’ll be fine.
- Laundry: If you’ve been traveling for a while, Jodhpur is a great place to catch up on laundry. Most guest houses can have your clothes washed and dried by the afternoon for a very small fee.
- Connectivity: Jodhpur is quite modern. Most cafes have decent Wi-Fi, and 5G signals are strong across the city.
- Support Local: If you’re looking for textiles, Jodhpur is famous for its hand-printed fabrics and leather Jodhpuri shoes (mojaris). Buy directly from the artisans in the backstreets of Sadar Market.
Final Thoughts
Blues aside, Jodhpur is a different feel of Rajasthan. It’s louder and more frenetic than the lakeside serenity of Udaipur, but it’s more “real” than the tourist-heavy Jaipur.
Plus – it’s BLUE!
Spend your mornings exploring the fort, your afternoons getting lost in the blue alleys, and your evenings on a rooftop watching the sun set over the blue city horizon.
It is a city of history, real life that is oh-so-India and incredible colours.
We hope this guide of things to do in Jodhpur helps you enjoy the Blue City as much as we have.
Namaste and happy travels!
Read More India Inspiration
- Ultimate India Food Tour: 10 Must-Try Treats.
- India Tourist e-Visa: Our Step-By-Step Guide.
- 10 Things To Do In Kochi & Kerala.
- Best Tourist SIM Card For India.
- What To Wear In India.
- 10 Tips To Avoid Delhi Belly In India.
- 4-Day Kochi & Kerala Itinerary.
- Travelling India By Bus: Intercity, Tourist & Sleeper Buses.
- 10 Iconic Things To Do In Kolkata.
Travel Planning for India & Beyond
These are the companies we use while traveling fulltime as a family and that we would recommend to anyone planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation and it’s easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally.
- Skyscanner– This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.
- GetYourGuide– Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world. Everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
- SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy it short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country.
- World Nomads – Tailored travel insurance (including for those who have already left home): Make sure you have good travel insurance before traveling to India!
Hi! I’m Sarah. I am the self-confessed dreamer, travel-schemer and the main editor behind this blog. I love to write, and it is a dream come true to share so many experiences together and inspire others in our stories.
