Jodhpur Travel Guide — Best Time, Things to Do & Where to Stay

Why Jodhpur

Jodhpur is the second-largest city in the northwestern Indian state of Rajasthan. Situated near the geographic center of the state on the edge of the Thar Desert, it serves as a central hub for travelers exploring the region. The destination is widely recognized as the "Blue City" because of the predominant blue color scheme across the buildings in its historic quarter.

Established in 1459 by Rao Jodha, a Rajput chief of the Rathore clan, Jodhpur succeeded the nearby town of Mandore as the historic capital of the Kingdom of Marwar. Positioned along a strategic trade route connecting Delhi to Gujarat, the settlement historically prospered through the commerce of silk, sandalwood, copper, opium, and dates. Over the centuries, the state experienced Mughal, Maratha, and British alliances before joining the Indian Republic in the late 1940s.

The old city circles the prominent Mehrangarh Fort and is enclosed by a protective wall punctuated by several gates. Beyond the fort, notable historic sights include the Umaid Bhawan Palace, the Jaswant Thada, and the Ghanta Ghar, or Clock Tower. Visitors can also explore the historic stepwell Toorji Ka Jhalra, the Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park, and the Mahamandira temple, which features detailed murals depicting ascetics in yoga postures.

In addition to its historic monuments, the area features scenic outdoor locations such as Kaylana Lake, Balsamand Lake, Surpura Dam, Machia Biological Park, and Mandore Garden. The city’s bustling local markets are famous for offering traditional clothing, antique items, and regional footwear known as Jodhpuri Mojari.

Culturally known to locals as Jodhana, the city possesses a distinct culinary reputation, famous for local specialties like Mirchi Bada, Rabdi Ghewar, and Mawa Kachori. The urban area is traversed by the Jojari River and experiences a hot desert climate. Summer conditions from April to June are extremely hot, with daily temperatures routinely exceeding 40 °C, while the majority of rainfall occurs during the monsoon months between June and September.