Ciao, my name is Luisa and welcome to my guide on the best things to do in Jodhpur – The Blue City! I’m a curious Italian girl who has a passion for design and plant-based food. I’m an architect by training, designer by vocation and food designer by passion. In my work, I intertwine all of these disciplines into commercial and educational projects that use plant foods as an incentive for sustainability. Another big passion of mine is travel.
Traveling allows me to discover new cultures, different products and anticipate trends. India was a country that I had wanted to visit for a long time and for several reasons: it has an incredible historical and artistic heritage, has the world’s largest number of vegetarians with a rich tradition of vegetarianism (both in philosophy and cooking), and promotes physical, mental and spiritual well-being through yoga and meditation. I had already traveled a lot in Asia and I was curious to learn more about Indian culture!
Spending Four Magical Days in Jodhpur
During my tour of India, I spent four days in Jodhpur. It was one of the destinations I liked the most in India. Situated in the heart of the royal state of Rajasthan, Jodhpur is a marvelous city full of color that bewitches travelers with its heritage and vibrancy. The Mehrangarh Fort, located on the hilltop, dominates the city and helps visitors get a sense of its past.
Inside the fort, I made two discoveries. One was the large and magnificent collection of miniature Marwar paintings (an incredibly refined, traditional painting style developed in Jodhpur sometime in the 17th century), which is characterized by bold lines and the use of primary colors. The second was the Turban Gallery where you can see the different kinds of turbans worn by people of various communities in Rajasthan on different occasions.
In the countryside of Jodhpur, I had the most inspiring experience of my India trip. My boyfriend and I spent a day with the Bishnoi community, the original Indian eco-warriors and members of the Hindu sect, who have been protecting the environment for over 500 years! This community believes in the sanctity of all life, shunning meat and worshiping trees.
My Favorite Place in Jodhpur: Old Stepwell
In Jodhpur, everything is vivid and vivacious. A maze of indigo-blue houses, women donning colorful Saris, turban-laden men, tourists and residents alike. The rhythm of the day is marked with honking traffic which invariably (along with people) includes cows, chickens and dogs. The smell of street food pervades every corner. With its warm hospitality, natural beauty and wonderful architecture – there is no shortage of reasons to visit Jodhpur!
My favorite place in Jodhpur is the old stepwell: Toorji Ka Jhalra Bavdi. In the heart of the city lies a 300 year old stepwell, perched between narrow winding streets and centuries old havelis. Carved with characteristic rose red sandstone (from Rajput architecture), the walls of the stepwell are engraved with carvings of dancing elephants, lions and cows.
The Toorji Ka Jhalra Bavdi stepwell not only served as a storage facility for water during periods of drought, but also as a place to relax and socialize (which is still evident today). Around sunset time, it’s a beautiful experience to stand on the steps of this well and savor the true essence of the city.
9 Best Things To Do in Jodhpur
1. Reserve Half a Day to Meet the Bishnoi Community
Discover the beauty of the Jodhpur countryside with a visit to the Bishnoi community. Witness their respect for nature, evident in the wildlife around their villages. Learn about their traditions, like their reverence for Khejri trees and blackbuck antelopes. Experience warm hospitality as you visit a Bishnoi home and gain insights into their life. This unforgettable encounter will leave your heart brimming with the beauty of their culture and your mind enriched with a newfound appreciation for the natural world.
2. Eat at the Omelette Shop by the Clock Tower
While Jodhpur boasts a vibrant street food scene, for a truly local experience, head to the Omelette Shop near the iconic Clock Tower. This legendary stall, recommended by Lonely Planet, is known for cracking thousands of eggs daily – with omelettes served on thick slices of hot toast!
3. Enjoy the Views at Stepwell Cafe Over Dinner
Stepwell Cafe, perched atop Toorji Ka Jhalra Bavdi, boasts the city’s best night view of the central stepwell. Imagine savoring Indian or continental fare while the carvings of the well are illuminated against the sky. The gentle glow reflects on the still water, creating a truly magical ambiance! This unique combination of delectable food, rich history and breathtaking scenery will leave you yearning to linger long after the last bite.
4. Let Children Guide You Through the Blue Corridor
Ditch the map and let the local children be your guides! For a handful of rupees, they’ll unlock a world beyond the blue walls. Weave through narrow alleyways, walk by bustling homes where families chat over steaming chai and marvel at the vibrant murals hiding in secret corners – each one a story whispered by the neighborhood’s heart. With these young ambassadors, you’ll discover the true magic of Jodhpur – a kaleidoscope of life painted not just on the walls, but in the smiles and warmth of its people.
5. Buy Souvenirs at the Mehrangarh Fort Bookshop
This gem within the fort offers more than books. Find souvenirs that celebrate Jodhpur’s culture. From miniature paintings to beautiful textiles, each piece is a treasure. Support local artisans and the fort’s preservation by bringing home a piece of Mehrangarh’s majesty.
6. Shop for Crafts and Dresses at Good Heart
Nestled in the bustling markets of Jodhpur, discover Good Heart – a haven for the eco-conscious shopper. This unique store isn’t just another souvenir stop. Here, find yourself surrounded by handcrafted art and clothing – created with sustainability in mind. From intricately embroidered dresses to locally sourced pottery, a visit to Good Heart is always a good idea!
7. Find Temples with the Best Views of the City
In Jodhpur, to experience the city’s vastness bathed in blue hues, head to the Mehrangarh Fort. Take the Blue Corridor route and prepare to be awestruck. About halfway up, nestled amidst the fort’s ascent, you’ll find a temple. This gem offers a breathtaking panoramic view, showcasing the iconic blue houses sprawled across the landscape. It’s the perfect spot to capture amazing photos and create unforgettable memories.
8. Explore the Heart of Jodhpur at the Clock Market
The Clock Market is a chaotic bazaar – a sensory overload in the best way possible. Imagine vibrant textiles stacked high, their colors competing with the heady aroma of freshly ground spices. Everywhere you turn, artistry unfolds – intricate embroidery on clothes, hand-painted pottery and gleaming silverwork. It’s a feast for the eyes and a haven for bargain hunters, a place where Jodhpur’s spirit comes alive!
9. Look Up and Enjoy the Sight of Eagles Flying
Don’t forget to gaze upwards when visiting Jodhpur! While the vibrant blue houses steal the show, the skies above hold a majesty of their own. Keep an eye out for eagles soaring, their wings beating a steady rhythm against the vast expanse. These feathered sentinels circle the Mehrangarh Fort, with cries echoing a timeless freedom. Watching them glide effortlessly adds another layer of wonder to your Jodhpur experience.
Must-Try Traditional Dishes of Jodhpur
Jodhpur is a paradise for foodies! There are many varieties of vegetarian food on offer – remembering that a third of the Indian population doesn’t eat meat, fish or eggs! That being said, it’s harder to find vegan food in Jodhpur because milk and ghee (clarified butter, originating from India) is widely used. The food is spicy which made me happy as I like to eat spicy food, even in Italy. Some vegetarian/vegan dishes I recommend:
- Gulab Jamun Ki Sabzi: A traditional Jodhpur dish made by dunking deep-fried balls of Mawa into a tomato-heavy gravy with cashew nuts.
- Pyaaz Kachori: My favorite street food in Jodhpur which is a snack that combines crispiness, texture and flavor. These fluffy fritters contain a flavorful filling made from tangy onions, lentils and various spices.
- Omelette: The appetizing egg sandwich in the Sardar Market is a must visit for egg lovers, accompanied with refereshing non-alcoholic fruit beer.
Makhaniya Lassi: A creamy concoction of buttermilk flavored with rose water, sugar, saffron and cardamom, with a topping of dried fruits. - Mirchi Bada: This spicy snack consists of chili with a filling of potato or cauliflower stuffing, served battered or fried with hot tomato chutney.
Jodhpur Accommodation Recommendations
On my Jodhpur trip, I stayed at the Shahi Guest House – a charming, heritage haveli that is 350 years old and made in the Mughal style. Traditionally, women met there in purdah veils – and the haveli maintains many of its original features such as stone lattice work, balconies and an open central courtyard. The rooms are big, clean and affordable. The terrace on the top with a restaurant offers a nice view of the fort and blue houses.
Need to Know Before You Go
To get to Jodhpur, my boyfriend and I booked a Rajasthan tour with a private driver. For us, it was a faster way to travel given our time restraints. I recommend this mode of transport if you have the budget. Otherwise, The Blue City can also be reached by train or by flying to the airport.
Don’t miss the opportunity to respond to the smiles that the locals give you in Jodhpur. Stop to talk with them, and you’ll discover the true beauty and essence of the city (and of the Indian people in general). Enjoy your visit!
