Jodhpur Jamboree: Inside the Blue City of India
Jodhpur- The Blue City of India is a concoction of ancient traditions and modern hues. Within its walls lies a treasure trove of royal heirlooms - opulent palaces, towering forts, old-world bazaars & iconic cuisines. All are perfectly preserved and proudly displayed. Brimming with larger-than-life tales of the magnificent era when the warrior kings ruled and the aroma of mouth-watering food, the city has so much to offer that you might want to carry a spare bag just for the everlasting memories. So hop on and read our guide to experience what this city offers.
Best Time to Visit Jodhpur
The months from November through February provide the most pleasant weather for visiting Jodhpur. The temperatures can drop to around freezing for short periods in January, making exploring quite enjoyable. October and March also see decent weather in Jodhpur, conducive to appreciating the city. However, Jodhpur experiences intense heat during the summer from April to September due to the arid climate, so if you’re planning to visit the city during these months, do so with proper care.
Places to Visit in Jodhpur
Every place in this city is filled with classic stories. This Jodhpur travel guide will help you discover some of them.
Mehrangarh Fort:
It’s one of the largest forts in India & is situated atop an elevated hill. The fort has 7 entry gates and museums and galleries depicting the rich history of the rulers of Jodhpur. Jodhpur sightseeing is incomplete without visiting this fort.
Time: 9 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fee: INR 100
Mandore Gardens:
The gardens house royal cenotaphs, a government museum, the famous Hall of Heroes and the temple of Three Hundred Million Gods.
Time: 8 AM to 8 PM
Entry Fee: INR 50 for the museum.
Peace & Serenity at the sprawling Mandore Gardens.
Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park:
If you want to have a look at the real terrain of Rajasthan and the indigenous flora of the Thar Desert, then be sure to visit this eco-park. It's located at a distance of 6.5 km from Zostel Jodhpur (Ratanada).
Time: 8 AM to 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: INR 100
Balsamand Lake:
Surrounded by lush gardens, the lake provides a peaceful spot for relaxation away from the city's hustle.
Time: 24 hours
Entry Fee: N/A
Ranisar Padamsar:
Twin lakes, interconnected and situated at the rear of Mehrangarh Fort. The clear waters provide an identical reflection of the fort on its surface.
Time: 24 hours
Entry Fee: N/A
Toorji ka Jhalra:
Called the stepwell of Jodhpur, this architectural wonder is one of the few remaining structures depicting Jodhpur's traditional water management systems.
Time: 24 hours
Entry Fee: N/A
Things to do in Jodhpur
Ziplining
If you want to experience the panoramic views of the majestic fort & the blue city with a twist, try the ziplining available from Mehrangarh Fort.
Cost: INR 1600 per person.
Take a heritage tour around the blue city
Jodhpur boasts a rich Rajasthani heritage & culture. There is no better way to soak in all its glory than to take a complete heritage tour of the city covering the important landmarks, food joints, and tourist attractions near Jodhpur.
Cost: Variable
Bishnoi Village Safari, Jodhpur
Located just a kilometre from Zostel Jodhpur (Ratanada), this is a wholesome way to experience the Rajasthani lifestyle. You will get to witness & indulge in the traditional arts of block printing, carpet weaving & pottery here.
Cost: INR 900 per person
Take a sneak-peek into the Rajasthani way of life at the Bishnoi Village.
Take an offbeat jeep safari in Osian
Want an adrenaline boost? Take on this exhilarating jeep desert safari in Jodhpur on the offbeat dunes inside the Osian barren region located 65 km from Jodhpur.
Cost: Variable
Enjoy musical fountain show at Shastri Circle
If you’re tired from all the sightseeing around the city and want a relaxing time, then take a spot in Shastri Circle and enjoy the musical fountain show in the evening.
Cost: INR 10. (An extra ticket is required to attend the fountain show)
Where to Eat in Jodhpur
A wholesome Jodhpur experience is incomplete without diving in it's rich flavours.
Restaurants & Cafes in Jodhpur:
The Olive Court
Relish the lip-smacking variety of cuisines & exclusively curated cocktails at Zostel Jodhpur (Ratanada)’s in-house restaurant.
Time: 2 PM to 2 AM
Cost for 2: INR 1000
The Blue Turban
A hip & happening place serving North-Indian, Chinese & continental food.
Time: 12 PM to 3 AM
Cost for 2: INR 500-700
Namaste Cafe
The place offers a wide variety of menu to choose from, with one of the best views of Mehrangarh Fort.
Time: 9 AM to 11 PM
Cost for 2: INR 300
The Filos
If you’re looking for good Italian and seafood in Jodhpur, then this is your place.
Time: 8 AM to 11 PM
Cost for 2: INR 500
Indique Restaurant & Bar
Head here for an exquisite fine-dining experience with a view. North-Indian & desserts are the speciality.
Time: 12 PM to 4 PM & 6 PM to 10:30 PM
Cost for 2: INR 1200
Stepwell Cafe
A must visit, this triple-decker cafe offers a stunning view of the Mehrangarh Fort with food that will have you coming back for more.
Time: 11 AM to 11 PM
Cost for 2: INR 700
Street Food
Besides the forts & palaces, it’s the street food of Jodhpur that people can never get enough of. So when you’re here, do not miss these legends:
Pyaaz Kachori bursting with sweet & tangy flavours.
- Shahi Samosa from Shahi Samosa
- Mawa Kachori at Janta Sweet Home
- Rabri Laddoo from Mohanji Mithai Wala
- Pyaaz Kachori from Rawat Mishthan Bhandaar
- Malai Roti with Gulab Jamun ki Sabzi at Vijay Restaurant
- Gulab Halwa from Gulab Halwa wala
- Jodhpuri Kabuli from Kabuli Wala
- Makhaniya Lassi from Shri Mishrilal Hotel
Through Jodhpur's Bazaars
After having seen the city bursting with traditional rajasthani colours and jewellery, you'd want to buy some for yourself, right? Read below to know where to get them all.
Clock Tower Market
If there's one market that every local advises you to shop from, it's the Clock Tower Market. Located just 3.5 km from Zostel Jodhpur (Ratanada), carry a lot of empty shopping bags when coming here.
What to Shop: Spices, handicrafts & flavoured tea.
The Clock Tower Market bustling with activity.
Nai Sarak
Your shopping experience in Jodhpur won't be complete without visiting this famous fabric market.
What to Shop: Tie & dye fabrics like Bandhani and Leather materials
Sojati Gate
Hunting for souvenirs for friends & family? Be sure to drop by this market, frequented by herds of tourists.
What to Shop: Traditional handicrafts & jewellery
Mochi Bazar
Also known as the Cobbler's Market, there is not a pair of Rajasthani footwear that you won't find here.
What to Shop: Colourful Mojaris & junk jewellery
Sarafa Bazar
Famous for its diversified textiles and garments collection, this place must be on your shopping list.
What to Shop: Silver ornaments & lehariya fabric.
About Zostel Jodhpur (Ratanada)
In the heart of the Blue City lies Zostel Jodhpur (Ratanada), a blend of the old and the new. Step into the haveli-inspired haven, bustling with the energy of travellers from all over. Unwind in the onsite cafe hosted by two friendly beagles or fill your stomachs with food and hearts from the shared moments at the in-house restaurant and bar. Head to the common room to indulge in board games or splash in the pool after your day's adventure. Find the perfect accommodation, with options spanning from private rooms to female-only and mixed dorms. Zostel Jodhpur (Ratanada) is more than just a roof over your head. It's an experience waiting to be unfolded.
The facade, dorm and common area at Zostel Jodhpur (Ratanada). Photos by @ankitguptaphotography
The bar, pool area and private room at Zostel Jodhpur (Ratanada). Photos by @ankitguptaphotography
A Jodhpur trip isn't just about stories and sights; it's about immersing yourself in its captivating rhythm. So come and experience the historical city in all its glory.