Tourist Attractions Jodhpur

Tourist Attractions Jodhpur, The second largest city in Rajasthan, Jodhpur is every traveller’s delight offering a glimpse of the state’s rich cultural heritage and the legacy left by Marwar rulers. Founded by Rao Jodha of the Rathore clan in 1459 AD, this city has many captivating forts, palaces, lakes, and other architectural wonders to explore. A highlight of Jodhpur is its houses, built in vivid shades of blue, which paint a magical picture on the canvas of Thar Desert – something you would not want to miss. Consider yourself spoilt for things to do in Jodhpur when it comes to the Blue City, so to make it easier, here is a list of popular attractions that must be a part of your Jodhpur itinerary.

Mehrangarh Fort
Visiting the mighty Mehrangarh Fort has to be on your list of things to do in Jodhpur. This fort sits on a hilltop and you can view it from almost every part of the old city. This fort will be one of the most magnificent structures you’ve ever seen in India. Make sure you visit the fort before sunset, as you get the best views and clicks of the blue city. If you are a history enthusiast you can avail of an audio guide or hire the official Jodhpuri guides at the entrance who are great and can share some great anecdotes about the palace. You also can shop inside the fort and not have to worry about bargaining as the prices here are regulated by an NGO.

Jaswant Thada
Jaswant Thada, which is located near the fort is a mausoleum of the king of Jodhpur. The white marble memorial was built by Sardar Singh in 1899 in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh. The monument has a series of domes, intricate carvings and a lake. It’s perfect for photography because of the way the white marble stands out and makes the monument look so royal. You can combine this visit with the visit to the fort.

Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park
Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park is located near the historic Mehrangarh Fort and spreads over 72 hectares. This park contains ecologically restored desert and arid land vegetation. The main purpose of this park was to restore the natural ecology of a large, rocky area adjoining and below the fort. The park is crisscrossed with four walking trails that one could follow (i.e. green, red, yellow and blue trails). These trails take you up to the city walls, around Devkund Lake, spotting local birds, butterflies and reptiles. Visitors can hire trained guides and naturalists as they are also available.

Umaid Bhavan Palace Museum & Hotel Umaid Bhavan Palace
The Umaid Bhawan Palace and Museum, is an architectural delight and definitely worth a visit. Part of the property is a museum and the other part is now a hotel run by the Taj Group of Hotels. If you stand on the rooftop of any cafe or hotel in the old city, you will spot this royal building. The museum here is very well maintained; displaying an exclusive range of items belonging to the Maharaja and the Royal family. The Hotel is very grand and spectacular. A meal here would take you back in time and back in your savings plan too. Do check out the hotel while waiting for the cup of coffee or a glass of beer at the trophy bar.

Mandore Gardens
Mandore was the capital of Marwar prior to the founding of Jodhpur. Its gardens consist of rock terraces and varieties of dark-red cenotaphs of Jodhpur’s rulers, making it perfect for photography. A path winds 350m behind the gardens to the extensive remains of Mandore’s Fort on the hill above, whose origins go back to the 6th century AD or possibly earlier – long before the Rathores. It’s now inhabited mostly by langurs, dogs and cows. However, once reaching the top of this hill, the cool breeze and the remains of the Mandore Fort make quite a view.

Balsamand Lake, Jodhpur
Situated on the Jodhpur-Mandore Road, Balsamand Lake is yet another popular attraction in the city. Built in 1159 AD to serve as a water reservoir, this artificial lake is visited by tourists and locals alike for its lush green surroundings and charming natural beauty, which makes a perfect setting for picnics. If you are lucky, you might even spot a peacock here!