Things to do in India’s Blue City Jodhpur
- Amy
- 11 minutes ago
- 16 min read
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Why is Jodhpur called the Blue City?
Jodhpur is popularly known as the Blue City because many of the old houses around Mehrangarh Fort are painted blue. The blue colour was traditionally associated with the Brahmin community, whose houses were painted blue to distinguish them from other communities. Over time, the practice spread to other parts of the city.
There is also a popular belief that the blue colour helped keep houses cool during Jodhpur’s extremely hot summers and may have helped repel insects. The blue-painted houses, especially those seen from Mehrangarh Fort, give the old city its distinctive appearance.
The idea that the blue colour came from indigo cultivation during the British Raj for export to England is sometimes mentioned, but it is not considered the main explanation for Jodhpur’s blue houses. The tradition of blue-painted homes is older and is more closely connected with local customs and the Brahmin community.
Where to Stay in Jodhpur?
Taj Hari Mahal (A Royal Heritage Stay)
Taj Hari Mahal was our first choice, in fact, Taj hotels are always our first choice in India, thanks to my mother-in-law's affiliation with the group. True to its name, Taj Hari Mahal is a heritage property in the heart of Jodhpur, very close to the airport, and it's a stark reminder of the city's royal legacy, blended beautifully with warm hospitality.
And there's good reason for that royal feel, the property was once the residence of Hari Singh, son of the former king of Jodhpur, before it was beautifully transformed into the hotel it is today. Spread across 6 acres of landscaped gardens, the design draws on the aesthetic of a 14th-century royal palace. The rooms are spacious and reflect Rajasthani culture and heritage in their design, while still being fully equipped with modern comforts, comfortable beds, minibars, in-room safes, and pillow menus for a proper luxury touch. Beyond the rooms, the property has plenty to keep you occupied: an outdoor pool and children's pool, a full-service spa, a 24-hour fitness centre, and a poolside bar for lazy afternoons.
Approx. rates: Starting from around ₹7,000–12,000 per night for a Deluxe Room, going well beyond that for Luxury Rooms and suites.
Best for: heritage lovers wanting a royal, culturally immersive stay.
RAAS Jodhpur (A Boutique Luxury Stay)
If you're after something truly special, RAAS Jodhpur is a fantastic luxury option, consistently rated among the best in the city and set right in the historic Gulab Sagar area, close to the old city and within walking distance of Mehrangarh Fort. The property offers striking views of the fort from many parts of the hotel. The 40 rooms are spacious and elegantly appointed, with fireplaces, minibars, and separate sitting areas. There's an outdoor pool, a full-service spa (RAAS Spa) offering treatments from aromatherapy to facials, a steam room, and a lovely rooftop terrace with sweeping views over the city, a wonderful spot to watch the sunset. The hotel has two restaurants and two bars/lounges serving international cuisine, along with a coffee shop and 24-hour room service. It's also connected to a small shopping area, handy if you want to browse local boutiques without straying far.
Approx. rates: Starting from around ₹18,000–22,000 per night, going up for Luxury Rooms and suites.
Best for: travellers wanting a boutique luxury stay with fort views and easy access to the Old City.
The Ummed Jodhpur, Palace Resort and Spa (Grand 5-star resort with a royal, palace-like feel)
Set across 28 acres of lovely gardens and courtyards, it's a popular choice for both leisure stays and weddings in the city. Rooms range from cosy garden-view options to more elegant suites, all with air conditioning, minibars, and views of the courtyards or gardens. The resort has two restaurants, a spa, an outdoor pool, and a fitness centre, plus it's conveniently close to Umaid Bhawan Palace and Mehrangarh Fort.
Approx. rates: Starting from around ₹4,500–6,500 per night, going up for suites.
Best for: a grand, resort-style stay with spa facilities at a relatively accessible five-star price.
Radisson Jodhpur (A Contemporary Stay)
Radisson Jodhpur is located very close to Taj Hari Mahal, making it another convenient option if you're looking to stay in this part of the city. The hotel offers a peaceful retreat with a garden and rooftop terrace, two on-site restaurants and two bars/lounges, both serving purely vegetarian cuisine, along with a coffee shop and 24-hour room service. There's also a full-service spa and an indoor pool, plus a separate children's pool, making it a good family-friendly choice too. Rooms are comfortable and well-equipped, with air conditioning, premium bedding, and a private bathroom with eco-friendly toiletries.
Approx. rates: Starting from around ₹4,500–6,000 per night for a Superior Room.
Best for: a comfortable, contemporary stay with wellness amenities and vegetarian dining.
Fairfield by Marriott Jodhpur (Mid-Range Stay)
If you're looking for something a notch more budget-conscious without compromising on comfort, Fairfield by Marriott Jodhpur is a solid mid-range pick. It's tailored especially well for a smooth stay, with modern amenities including high-speed internet, a well-equipped business centre, and spacious, comfortable rooms. The on-site restaurant, Kava, serves a variety of international cuisines, making it a versatile choice.
Approx. rates: Starting from around ₹4,000–6,500 per night.
Best for: travellers who want reliable, modern comfort at a mid-range price point.
Singhvi's Haveli (Budget Stay)
For a more budget-friendly, characterful stay, Singhvi's Haveli is a lovely choice tucked right into Jodhpur's Old City, just a two-minute walk from Mehrangarh Fort. Set inside a heritage-style Art Deco haveli, it's consistently rated highly by travellers, with individually furnished and decorated rooms, a rooftop terrace, two restaurants, a bar, and free WiFi throughout. It's a great option if you want to soak in some old-world charm and stay within walking distance of the Old City's blue lanes and bazaars, all without the price tag of a heritage luxury property.
Approx. rates: Starting from around ₹1,800–2,800 per night.
Best for: budget travellers who still want character, charm, and a prime Old City location.
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Things to do in Jodhpur
Day 1 - The Royal Jodhpur Day
After a royal breakfast at the Taj Hari Mahal, we were on our way to explore the many things to do in Jodhpur.
Mehrangarh Fort
This is one of India’s greatest forts. Mehrangarh Fort was built by Rao Jodha in 1459 in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. It is one of the most famous and beautiful forts in India. Mehrangarh itself derives from 'Mihir' (Sun) + 'Garh' (Fort), referencing the Rathore dynasty's claimed descent from the sun god Surya. But other sources also reveal that the fort was originally known as 'Chintamani', meaning 'wish-fulfilling jewel', a name that reflects just how precious and significant this fort was considered to be right from its founding. It was also called 'Mayurdhwaj', meaning 'peacock banner,' likely referring to the peacock motif that was closely associated with Rajput royal insignia and flags, a symbol of grace, pride and royalty that the Rathores proudly flew over their new stronghold.
When visiting the fort, don’t miss the guided tour. You'll find placards and information boards put up everywhere inside the fort, and an audio tour is also available if you'd like to explore at your own pace. That said, if you manage to bag a great tour guide who can bring the fort's history alive through storytelling, going beyond what's written on the boards or narrated in the audio guide, I'd highly recommend taking their service. The right guide can turn a simple walk through old stone corridors into a genuinely gripping tale of kings, battles and legends.
Some of the highlights include the beautifully decorated Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) and Phool Mahal (Flower Palace), as well as the collection of royal palanquins used by the former royal family. The fort’s enormous cannons, ramparts, courtyards, and impressive architecture are also worth exploring. The views over the Blue City are spectacular, giving you a wonderful perspective of Jodhpur’s famous blue-painted houses. For families with children, a zipline experience is also available and can be a fun optional activity, especially for kids who enjoy a little adventure.
There are a couple of food options at Mehrangarh Fort:
Mehran Terrace / Chokelao Mahal: A beautiful open-air rooftop restaurant serving traditional Rajasthani and Indian thalis. It is open only for dinner, with spectacular views of Jodhpur and the illuminated Blue City at night.
Café Mehran: A casual café within the fort museum, open during the day for light meals, snacks, and hot or cold drinks. The café is convenient, but the food is not particularly impressive, so we would not prioritise it.
For a more memorable meal, Raas Jodhpur is an excellent choice and is just a two-minute walk from Toorji Ka Jhalra (stepwell).
Jaswant Thada
Right after our visit to Mehrangarh Fort, we made our way to Jaswant Thada, a beautiful marble cenotaph set amidst peaceful gardens. We took a tuk-tuk to the cenotaph, as this is the easiest way to reach it. You can also go by your own car or walk up; it is only about a six-minute walk.
Jaswant Thada is essentially a royal memorial and cremation site for the rulers of Jodhpur. The main cenotaph was built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, and the site contains memorials to members of the Jodhpur royal family. The intricate white marble and peaceful surroundings make it a lovely contrast to the imposing Mehrangarh Fort.
The Baradari at RAAS Jodhpur
One of the standout meals of our entire Jodhpur trip happened right at RAAS Jodhpur, at their in-house restaurant, Baradari. Known for its organically grown ingredients, some sourced straight from the hotel's own garden, and its iconic views of the fort, it's easily one of the most memorable dining spots in the city.
We had the best Laal Maas of our trip here, rich, deeply spiced, and cooked exactly the way this fiery Rajasthani mutton curry is meant to be. Another dish we'd highly recommend is the Dahi ke Kofte, soft, deep-fried dumplings served in a tangy, yogurt-based curry. Paired with the ambience, the fort views, and the impeccable service RAAS is known for, it turned into an evening we still talk about.
We found that tuk-tuks are particularly useful for getting around the old city of Jodhpur. Many of the inner roads are narrow and difficult for larger vehicles to access. Cars and Ubers often have to take a considerable detour to reach places that are easily accessible by tuk-tuk.
Toorji Ka Jhalra Stepwell
Our next stop was Toorji Ka Jhalra, one of the prettiest historic stepwells in Rajasthan. The stepwell has been restored, although when we visited, it did not feel particularly well maintained. Historically, the stepwell provided water for the local community. Today, the water is no longer used for drinking, but we saw local young boys taking extraordinary plunges into it from the surrounding heights!
Standing there, it was easy to imagine what this part of Jodhpur must have been like in the past, calm and serene, with women carrying their pots down the winding flights of steps to collect water. The steps were designed to make it easier and safer to carry the pots up and down. The residential neighbourhood around the stepwell must once have been full of everyday life, with children playing in the streets and families busy with their daily routines.
Rang Mala
From Toorji Ka Jhalra, our guide took us to Rang Mala, in the Makrana Mohalla area, a store specialising in traditional and historic wares. The collection included antique furniture, intricate appliqué work, marble and brass pieces, Jodhpuri karigari, textiles such as block prints and achrega, beadwork, mirror work, camel wool, silk fabrics, clothing, rugs, ornaments, delicate crewel chain-stitch embroidery, and vintage, upcycled wedding fabrics given a new life..
We were not completely sure about the authenticity of everything in the store or whether the prices quoted represented good value. That said, we did find some things that we would not easily have been able to purchase in Mumbai or the Netherlands, and we were very happy with what we bought.
It was a nice opportunity to take home a few pieces of Jodhpur’s traditional craftsmanship and artistry. It's the kind of place where you go in expecting to browse for ten minutes and end up losing track of time entirely.
Day 2 - Bishnoi Village Experience
On Day 2, we booked a Bishnoi Village Safari through the Taj, and it turned out to be one of the most unique experiences around Jodhpur. The morning took us through traditional Bishnoi villages, where we watched artisans at work, from pottery making and block printing to weaver families showcasing their craft. We drove past rural homes, browsed local handicrafts, and spotted wildlife like blackbuck and chinkara roaming remarkably close to village life. This was all followed by a relaxed village lunch.
For the full story, head to my dedicated blog post! Bishnoi Villages of Jodhpur |
Day 3
Blue Corridor Walking Tour
We started our walk at the iconic Clock Tower, right underneath the tower itself, where everyone gathered before exploring the heart of Jodhpur's old city. Our first stop was Toorji Ka Jhalra, the magnificent 18th-century stepwell built by Rani Toorji, the wife of Maharaja Abhay Singh. After that, we shortly passed Raju Namkeen Bhandar, tucked away in Rawaton Ka Bass near Manak Chowk, and very popular for their mawa kachori. We parceled two pieces to try later and decided to move further. It was a great introduction to Jodhpur's rich history and architectural heritage.
Along these lanes, we also stumbled upon Navchokiya, one of the oldest residential pockets of the walled city. Located just behind the main tourist trail, it's home to a cluster of centuries-old havelis with beautifully carved facades, and has a quieter, more residential charm compared to the busier stepwell and clock tower area. We walked via these blue lanes, which give the city its famous nickname, the Blue City. The colour was traditionally used by Brahmin households to mark their homes, though over time it also stuck around for practical reasons, it's said to reflect the desert heat and keep interiors cooler, and even helps keep mosquitoes away. It gives a breathtaking panorama view of Jodhpur's azure-hued landscape, especially when seen from a height.
We passed the Narayan Misthan Bhandar (Lal Bhatti Wale) in Kapda Bazar, Sodagaran Mohalla, on our way out. It's very famous for its mogar dal kachori made of pure ghee. We concluded the walk with a visit to the beautiful Ghanshyam Ji Temple, a stunning 16th-century temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. The intricate architecture, peaceful atmosphere, and vibrant artwork made it a memorable way to end our tour. We wrapped things up near Ghantaghar, the clock tower itself, built in the early 1900s under Maharaja Sardar Singh, with a clock imported from the same English maker as London's Big Ben. Around it, the Sardar Market opens up into narrow lanes selling spices, textiles, silver jewellery, and Rajasthani handicrafts and puppets, a fitting, sensory-rich end to our walk through old Jodhpur.
Umaid Bhawan Museum
What I particularly liked about Umaid Bhawan Palace was that, despite its enormous scale and grandeur, the visitor experience itself felt surprisingly concise and well organized. Only a portion of the palace is open to the public, and the tour is conducted in a simple, structured manner by the official guides.
Built between 1928 and 1943, Umaid Bhawan is one of the world’s largest private residences and remains a working royal residence even today. The palace is spread across a vast estate, with one section operated as a luxury hotel by Taj, another housing the museum that is open to visitors, and a private wing that continues to be the residence of the Jodhpur royal family. The scale of the palace is extraordinary. Its Art Deco architecture, expansive courtyards, grand halls and beautifully maintained gardens reflect the ambition behind its construction. The museum offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of the Jodhpur royal family through its collection of photographs, artefacts, clocks, furniture and other memorabilia.
One of the highlights for me was the vintage car collection. The beautifully preserved cars belonging to the royal family are displayed in an impressive setting and add another dimension to the experience. Taj also offers experiences centered around the palace’s vintage cars. There is also a gift shop where you can browse for souvenirs before leaving.
And then comes the perfect little indulgence after the tour, the kulfi at the outdoor café. In Jodhpur’s heat, it is every bit as satisfying as it sounds! It is undoubtedly one of Jodhpur’s most spectacular landmarks!
A Traditional Marwari Thali at Maa Ki Dhani
Dinner today was a traditional Marwari thali at the very famous Maa Ki Dhani, tucked away in the Air Force Area of Jodhpur.
As you enter, you immediately understand why this place is such a popular destination for experiencing authentic Rajasthani cuisine. The ambience itself is so unique, with a wonderful village-inspired feel—traditional charpoys, colourful Rajasthani décor, folk-art murals and rustic touches everywhere you look. The staff, dressed in traditional turbans, add beautifully to the whole experience.
Even the menu is an experience in itself, with detailed descriptions of local specialties and photographs showcasing many of their signature dishes. We were so intrigued by the variety that, being a large group, we decided to order almost all the local specialties and turn dinner into a proper Rajasthani feast!
From the traditional desi sabzis, we tried Maa Ki Dhani Special Sabzi ( A traditional Rajasthani mix of desert berries, beans, seeds and cashews with spices), Ker Kaju Draksh Masala (Tangy desert berries cooked with cashews, raisins and spices), Sukha Gawar Kachari (Dry-cooked cluster beans and desert vegetable with spices), Rabodi Ki Sabzi (Dried wheat crisps cooked in a spiced yogurt gravy) and Besan Gatte (Soft chickpea-flour dumplings in a spiced yogurt gravy).
And of course, no Rajasthani meal is complete without the accompaniments, bajre ki roti, khoba roti, ghee, papad, chutneys, raita and rice, followed by something sweet to round off the meal. A lovely place to visit when you want to experience Rajasthani food beyond the usual dal-baati-churma!
Where to Shop in Jodhpur
The best place to shop in Jodhpur, without a doubt, is Sardar Market, right by the Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar). Just a word of caution though, bargaining is a must here if you want to walk away with sane prices, so don't be afraid to haggle a little. That said, the sheer variety of handmade products on offer is genuinely unbelievable, there's something for every kind of shopper tucked into its lanes.
To make things easier, here's a little shopping checklist I put together while I was there, feel free to use it as your own guide the next time you're in Jodhpur: Bandhani sarees and dupattas, Leheriya textiles, mojaris (those beautiful traditional juttis), leather journals, handcrafted furniture if you're up for arranging shipping, brass handicrafts, marble work, wooden toys, local spices, Rajasthani tea, and of course, silver jewellery. Whatever you end up picking, Sardar Market is one of those places where you go in for one thing and come out with an entire suitcase's worth of treasures.
A Taste of Jodhpur
Dal Baati Churma (baked wheat dumplings served with spiced lentils and a sweet crumbly wheat dessert) at Marwar Restaurant, Taj Hari Mahal, the in-house restaurant of our royal stay, serving up authentic Rajasthani thalis in a setting as regal as the dishes themselves.
Ker Sangri (a traditional Rajasthani dish made with desert berries and beans cooked with spices) and Gatte ki Sabzi (gram flour dumplings cooked in a tangy yoghurt-based curry), the best at Maa ki Dhani, a rustic, village-style dining experience designed to recreate the charm and flavours of rural Rajasthan.
Gulab Jamun and Ghewar Rabdi (a rich, sweet dessert made by slowly reducing milk until thick and creamy) at Chaturbhuj, a 125-year-old sweet shop tucked into the old city, considered by many locals to be the finest gulab jamun in all of Jodhpur.
Rasgullas (soft, spongy cottage-cheese balls soaked in light sugar syrup) and Gulab Jamun ki Sabzi (a unique savoury curry made using gulab jamuns instead of the usual sweet dessert form) from Janta, a beloved sweet shop known for its wide spread of Rajasthani mithai and snacks, a favourite pit stop for locals.
Laal Maas and Dahi Ke Kofte at RAAS Jodhpur, a stunning 5-star heritage boutique hotel situated right below Mehrangarh Fort, is a fiery red mutton curry made with chillies, rich, spicy, and full of flavor. The setting is gorgeous, with the old haveli architecture and fort views, but it comes at a cost, quite overly expensive compared to other places in the city, so worth it mainly if you want the luxury experience along with the meal.
Safed Maas (a mild, creamy mutton curry flavoured with yoghurt, nuts, and aromatic spices) and Bajra Roti (a rustic flatbread made from pearl millet flour) from Indique. It is a rooftop restaurant at Pal Haveli in Jodhpur, right near the Clock Tower. People love it here because the food is tasty and you get to eat it while looking out at Mehrangarh Fort lit up at night. It's a bit pricey and popular, so it's best to book a table in advance.
Mirchi Vada (large green chillies stuffed with spiced potato, coated in gram flour batter, and deep-fried) and Samosas from Shahi Samosa, an iconic, always-crowded street food stall near Jalori Gate, a Jodhpur institution for decades.
Makhaniya Lassi (a rich, creamy yoghurt drink topped with butter or thick cream) at Shri Mishrilal Hotel, an old-city breakfast institution, famous for its thick, cardamom-laced lassi that's practically a rite of passage for visitors.
Desi ghee-fried Mogar Dal Kachori (a deep-fried, flaky pastry stuffed with spiced mogar/moong dal) at Narayan Misthan Bhandar (Lal Bhatti Wale), a neighbourhood gem in Sodagaran Mohalla, known among locals for its mogar dal kachoris made in pure ghee.
Pyaaz Kachori (a flaky, deep-fried pastry stuffed with a spicy onion filling) at Raju Namkeen Bhandar, a local favourite tucked near Manak Chowk, cherished by residents for this indulgent, syrup-soaked treat.
Malai Roti, a rare Rajasthani dessert made by draining milk cream, shallow-frying it in pure desi ghee until it takes on a bread-like shape, then garnishing it with saffron, pistachios and almonds at Vijay Restaurant, a decades-old institution in Katla Bazar, near Achal Nath Mandir, and the only place in Jodhpur famous for serving this unique delicacy.
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