Things To Do
in Jodhpur
Jodhpur sits on the edge of the Thar Desert, where the sky-blue houses of the old town blanket the lanes. Dominating the skyline is Mehrangarh Fort, a sprawling 15th-century citadel with museum galleries and sweeping city views. The bustling Clock Tower and Sardar Market reveal a sensory feast of color, spice, and crafts.
The city blends royal heritage with vibrant street life, offering visitors a gateway to Rajasthan's culture, cuisine, and desert landscapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café before heading to Mehrangarh Fort, one of the largest forts in India. As you ascend the fort, take in the stunning views of the Blue City and the surrounding landscape. Explore the intricate architecture and fascinating history of the fort as you wander through its many courtyards and museums.
After your fort exploration, enjoy a traditional Rajasthani lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring local specialties like dal bati churma. Post-lunch, visit the Jaswant Thada, a beautiful marble cenotaph that serves as a memorial to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Spend time enjoying the serene gardens and the intricate carvings that adorn the structure.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll through the bustling streets of the old city, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Stop by a local market to shop for handicrafts, textiles, and spices while interacting with friendly vendors. Conclude your day with dinner at a rooftop restaurant offering stunning views of the fort illuminated at night.
Begin your morning with a visit to the historic Clock Tower, a landmark of Jodhpur that marks the heart of the city. Wander through the nearby Sardar Market, where you can see local vendors selling colorful spices, textiles, and handicrafts. Engage with artisans and learn about their crafts, making sure to try some local snacks like mirchi vada.
After exploring the market, enjoy lunch at a local eatery specializing in Rajasthani thali, which features a variety of traditional dishes. Spend your afternoon visiting the Umaid Bhawan Palace, a stunning heritage hotel and museum that showcases the royal history of Jodhpur. Explore its lavish rooms and gardens, and learn about the palace's construction during the 20th century.
As evening falls, head back to the market to witness the transformation as the stalls are lit up with vibrant lights. Capture some stunning photographs of the bustling atmosphere and the beautiful architecture around you. Wrap up your evening with a relaxed dinner at a nearby restaurant, trying out local favorites while enjoying live folk music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🚕Local taxi ride (short trip) | $3-6 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-40 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich royal heritage and dramatic fort vistas
- Vibrant markets with authentic local crafts
- Delicious, spice-forward Rajasthani cuisine
- Very hot summers and crowded old-city streets
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Certain areas may be challenging for accessibility
- "Namaste" - Hello / Welcome
- "Aap kaise ho?" - How are you?
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Kripya" - Please
- "Mujhe madad chahiye" - I need help
- "Yeh kitne ka hai?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Jodhpur
Visit one of these nice places.
Massive fortress walls with sweeping views of the Blue City below; dramatic lighting at sunrise or sunset.
A maze of cobalt-blue houses and narrow stairways—perfect for color and texture photography.
A serene marble cenotaph complex with reflecting ponds and soft light for portraits.
Grand gardens and exterior façades offering regal silhouettes and architectural detail.
Bustling market scenes, spices, textiles, and candid street photography opportunities.
Food in Jodhpur
Jodhpur Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Rajasthan dish: baked baati served with dal and a sweet churma crumble piled on top.
Must-Try!
A fiery mutton curry flavored with red chilies and traditional spices, usually enjoyed with bajra or wheat roti.
A desert classic of dried sangri beans and ker (capers) cooked with spices; a must-try for authentic Rajasthani flavor.
Gram flour dumplings simmered in a tangy, spiced curry, frequently paired with millet breads.
A sweet, flaky kachori stuffed with khoya (mawa) and nuts, a beloved local street treat in Jodhpur.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market celebrated for savory street bites like onion kachori, farsi gota snacks, and locally made sweets.
Narrow alleys host street vendors offering chaats, samosas, and regional savories beyond the main market.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Modest clothing is appreciated; shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting religious sites.
Ask before photographing people, especially in markets or homes; use your right hand for giving/receiving, and avoid public displays of affection in crowded areas.
Remove shoes when entering certain homes or temples where signage requests it.
Safety
Tipping in Jodhpur
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary for good service: about 5-10% in restaurants if service charge isn’t included; small tips to porters and guides are appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted, with many places also accepting cards and mobile wallets. ATMs are common in central areas; carry some cash for markets and small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot from March to June with daytime highs often above 40°C (104°F). Hydrate, wear light clothing, and schedule outdoor activity for early mornings or late afternoons.
July to September brings humidity and occasional showers; expect thundershowers but also refreshingly cooler evenings.
October to February is mild to cool, with cool nights. Pack a light jacket for evenings and enjoy comfortable sightseeing.
Jodhpur at Night
Hiking in Jodhpur
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short, easy nature trails around the fort that showcase desert flora and offer great city views.
Lakeside walks with birds, sunsets, and calm scenery on the city’s outskirts.
Desert dune treks and camel rides about 60-70 km from Jodhpur for a desert experience.
Airports
How to reach Jodhpur by plane.
Domestic and limited regional flights; quick taxi ride to downtown and major hotels.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of communities with strong traditions in crafts, textile work, and cuisine.
Domestic and international visitors drawn to forts, markets, and desert landscapes.
A growing mix of educational institutions and businesses supporting visitors and residents.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A dominant sport; locals play informally in parks and are passionate about matches.
Common in schools and community grounds; weekend games are popular.
Various clubs and tours offer riding experiences and equestrian events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jodhpur.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are abundant; most dishes can be prepared without meat. Request no meat or ghee if needed and ask for millets (bajra/jowar) when available.
Many dishes are naturally gluten-free (dal, vegetable curries) but breads often contain gluten; opt for bajra/pri millet-based breads or rice with curries; always confirm ingredients with the chef.