Best Places To Visit In Jodhpur
Jodhpur, the Blue City of India, is an amazing place for a holiday in Rajasthan. Here of the some of the best places to visit in Jodhpur:
1. Mehrangarh Fort
Built around 1460 A.D. by Rao Jodha, Mehrangarh Fort is listed among the most magnificent hill forts of Rajasthan. No wonder, it is one of the best places to visit in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Standing almost 100 feet above the city skyline, the fort is built so flawlessly that you won’t be able to make out where the hill ends and the walls begin. Unbeatable and impressive, this grandeur in red sandstone is wrapped in an eccentric beauty. Needless to say, when travelers look forward to the most remarkable tourist attractions in Jodhpur, this fort is the foremost choice.
It’s huge, thick walls surprise you with grand palaces inside that are ornamented with intricate carvings. The colossal structure also boasts of a museum that displays fascinating and precious artworks of great historical value. It also invites you to an experience of a lifetime with its several cultural festivals such as the annual Rajasthan International Folk Festival in October and the World Sufi Spirit Festival in February. So, while making your list of Jodhpur tourist attractions, missing out on this splendor in stone is a No-No.
Opening hours: Sunday to Saturday – 9:00 hours –17:00 hours
Fast fact: Mehrangarh Fort is a popular site for movies’ set. It was one of the locations to shoot the movie – The Dark Knight Rises, released in June 2012.
2. Jaswant Thada
Your Mehrangarh visit is coupled by a trip to Jaswant Thada. As both the monuments are at a stone’s throw, these are tourist places to visit in Jodhpur in one day. Standing adjacent to Mehrangarh Fort, this is a cluster of majestic cenotaphs in white marble. Built in 1899 A.D. in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, the main cenotaph of these holds portraits of various Rathore rulers. While visiting places in Jodhpur, at this place, you will feel tranquility all around. Also, you will realize that it is more of a temple where deceased rulers are worshipped. This is the most popular tourist places in Jodhpur.
Also known as Taj Mahal of Marwar, carvings of this monument are beautifully intricate. A spectacular multi-level garden, a pond, and exquisitely carved gazebos manifold its charm. Visit it on a sunny day to behold it beauty in full bloom. When it is kissed by sun rays, the extremely thin marble sheets, of which it is made up, glow golden. Make a wish here. Locals believe that the monument grants your wishes.
Fast Fact: The Trivia
The Pond of the Gods at Jaswant Thada, is known to be the traditional cremation ground for the Jodhpur royals.
3. Umaid Bhavan Palace
Umaid Bhavan Palace is one of the visit places in Jodhpur when it comes to witnessing the luxurious side of the city. Step into scrumptious luxury at Umaid Bhavan Palace – a celebrated destination when it comes to famous places in Jodhpur. Among the largest private residences on the globe, this palace is named after Maharaja Umaid Singh, grandfather of the current owner Gaj Singh. Crowned with several features that make it an exquisite structure, the palace has 347 rooms and a part of it is operated by Taj Group of Hotels.
This palace holds a prominent position among places to see in Jodhpur. A museum is also housed in a part of this magnificent structure. Don’t miss to see its galleries housing various regal items, one gallery dedicated to display a variety of an item. For instance, a gallery showcases a host of royal clocks, and one of those display royal vintage cars. Make sure, you visit the grandeur spread in every nook and corner of this palace.
Fast Fact: Story time
Once upon a time Jodhpur, erstwhile Marwar was hit by famine in 1920s. People approached Maharaja Umaid Singh for help. To provide employment to people, he generously commissioned a new palace. The venture resulted in helping people survive the tough time and emerged as a symbol of hope in times of trouble. Thus, the palace was built for a noble cause.
4. Mandore Gardens
Mandore Gardens is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Jodhpur city. Jodhpur sightseeing is incomplete without visiting these gardens. Brimming with cenotaphs, old temples, and several other Madore Garden is another wonderful destination to take you for a trip back in time. The hall of heroes, dedicated to Rajput folk heroes and several deities, stands close to the cenotaphs. Their statues are carved in stone and flamboyant. The Shrine of the Three Hundred Million Gods is another attraction of this garden. Climb up the hill to have a look at the ruined city of Mandore with its old palace. And, beware of langur monkeys in this garden. They play around in hordes.
Fast fact: Did you notice? Mandore Garden is not just a garden but a complete all-in-one package for ardent tourists? Yes, it is. Amidst serene garden setting, it offers you an opportunity to explore breathtaking memorials, an artistic temple, and a host of langur monkeys at play (just in case, you want some fun element added to your visit).
5. Osian Temples
Another on the list of places to visit in Jodhpur and around is Osian. This destination awaits you at a distance of 65 km from Jodhpur in the ancient desert town of Osian. Baptized as Osian Temples, these 15 beautifully sculpted Hindu and Jain temples invite you. Hailing from the 7th and 8th centuries, these sacred places prove the architectural proficiency of ancient India. Make sure that you visit Sun Temple here with other famous places in Jodhpur as it is the oldest of all.
Fast fact: Enclosed within golden sand dunes and small villages, Osian offers the perfect setting to enjoy camel safari in the desert. Don’t miss out on this fun-filled trip.
6. Tripolia Market
If you wish to buy some exclusive Jodhpuri style outfits and footwears then do head to Tripolia Market. You can check out the amazing collection of batik sarees, wooden handicrafts, metal accessories, etc.
7. Balsamand Lake
If you are looking for a perfect getaway from Jodhpur city then Balsamand Lake is located at a distance of 5 kilometers from the main city and is known for offering scenic beauty. The place is located amidst the lush green ambiance and the stunning royal pathways enhances the beauty of this place.
8. Chand Baori
Chand Baori is a famous step well of Jodhpur that was established in the 9th century. This stunning step well is amongst the world’s largest step well and lures travelers with its distinctive features. The step well is 64 feet deep and has 13 floors, making it the biggest stepwell in India. This is quite popular among Jodhpur tourist places.
9. Rai Ka Bag Palace
Rai ka bag palace is located in the old city of Jodhpur and is visited by almost every visitor. It the the oldest attraction of this city and lures travelers with its exquisite beauty. The palace was constructed by royal queen in 1663.
10. Raas Haveli
Another most popular hub in Jodhpur is Raas Haveli that offers multi-cuisine dine-in options including the delicious Mediterrarean cuisine. If you are willing to eat something really healthy and fresh then don’t miss out having a meal here!