Popular places to visit in Jodhpur

Rajasthan’s Jodhpur was the seat of a Rajput kingdom when Rao Jodha created his fortress in Mehrangarh Fort. The city is a popular tourist destination for people in India and abroad. Every year millions of people travel to Rajasthan to catch a glimpse of the Indian architecture and tour the desert plains around. An important cultural and historical city, Jodhpur is a must-visit place in the Indian subcontinent.

You can reach Jodhpur in the following ways:

By air: Jodhpur airport is located within the city and is a busy domestic terminal in Rajasthan. The airport is well connected to other airport cities in India, and tourists can easily travel here by direct flights. For international travellers, Jaipur Airport will be the nearest international terminal. You will find plenty of connecting flights to Jodhpur from Jaipur, or you can opt for a cab ride from the airport to your destination city.

By rail: Jodhpur has its very own railway station, which is Jodhpur Junction Station. Tourists in India who want to avail rail transport to reach Jodhpur can travel here from any part of the country. Additionally, the rail routes in Rajasthan pass through some beautiful landscapes making the journey even more appealing.

By road: If you want to reach Jodhpur via roadways, you can easily travel here from major cities in Rajasthan and other parts of the country. You can take the NH 48 highway to reach Jodhpur city from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Amritsar, and Jaipur.

 

Tourist places and things to do in Jodhpur

If you are planning a tour to Jodhpur, you need to take a look at these top Jodhpur tourist places, which you need to include in your itinerary:

Mehrangarh Fort

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Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur is a marvel of Indian architecture from the 15th century. This site, among the Jodhpur famous places, is spread over an area of 1,200 acres and placed on a hilltop. Located about 122 metres above the plains below, it was commissioned by Rajput ruler Rao Jodha. The various rooms and individual palaces within its premises are famous for their astounding carvings and decorations. The museum located within has a variety of relics from the Rajput kingdom. You will need hours to explore the entire premise and a guide who will take you through its history.

Timings:

Everyday from 9 am to 5 pm.

Entry fees:

International Travellers:- INR 600

International Guests (Students):- INR 400

Indian Guests: INR 100

Indian Guests (Sr. citizen, Student, Para Military personnel): INR 50

Photography Fee (Still): INR 100

Photography Fee (Video): INR 200

Elevator (one-way): INR 50

Tour Escort Fee: INR 120

Audio Guide: INR 180

Audio Guide (Concession): INR 120

 

Toorji Ka Jhalra (Toorji’s Step Well)

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Toorji ka Jhalra, or the Torrji Step Well, is another notable place among the places to visit in Jodhpur. The site is located within the city premises and can be easily reached by local transport. The step well was created in the 18th century by a Rajput queen consort. The step well has a rich red sandstone structure which goes well below 200 metres underground. Originally the well served as a public place for drawing water and bathing. The fluctuating levels of water made it necessary for steps to be constructed when the water levels dropped way below the surface of the Earth. You can visit the well after the tour of Mehrangarh fort and enjoy the coolness of the clean water here.

 

Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum

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Umaid Bhavan palace in Jodhpur is actually currently a hotel. However, a section of the hotel has been kept open for visitors so that they can come and marvel at some of the rare antiques and collectables of royal families in Rajasthan. The palace itself was built in the 20th century and was commissioned by Maharaja Umaid Singh. The museum houses many paintings and private property of the royals. There is a car museum containing some collectable cars for display. The entry fees are minimal, and you can roam around the place to catch a glimpse of the architecture. Additionally, you can also stay at the hotel and enjoy its beauty to its full capacity.

Timings:

All the days of the week from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Entry fees:

For palace:

• Indians- INR 25
• Foreigners- INR 50

For museum:

• Indians- INR 30 per Adult and INR 10 per Child
• Foreigner- INR 100

 

Jaswant Thada

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Jaswant Thada is located within the Jodhpur city premises and is among the places to see in Jodhpur. Built-in dedication to Maharaja Sardar Singh, the cenotaph was constructed in 1899. The intricate architecture and carved windows of the place are a special attraction for tourists and visitors. There is also a small lake located within the marble walls of the crematorium. You can tour the place and marvel at this display of Indian architecture. There are also several pictures of Rajput rulers located within its premises. You can easily reach the place by public transport in the city itself.

Timings:

Everyday from 9 am to 5 pm.

Entry fees:

Indians – INR 30

Foreigners – INR 50

Guide fees:

01 to 04 Pax: INR 100

05 to 15 Pax: INR 135

16 to 30 Pax: INR 170

31 to 50 Pax: INR 225

 

Umair Heritage Art School

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Umair Heritage Art School is an interesting place where you can go to learn new things about Indian art. The school teaches travellers how to paint miniature paintings. You will also find a huge display of Rajasthani paintings, which are proudly displayed on the walls of the place. These intricate paintings are also up for purchase in case you want to carry them home as souvenirs. You can get painting lessons here and learn a thing or two about the history of Rajasthani art. Art enthusiasts and historians can learn a lot about Indian art from the Umair Heritage Art School.

Timings:

Everyday from 9 am to 9 pm.

 

Ghanta Ghar

 

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Ghanta Ghar in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, is a structure made during the British rule in India. The clock tower was constructed in the 19th century by Maharaja Sardar Singh. The clock tower is open to tourists, and you can climb up to its top quarters and observe the city below. It is located close to a bazaar, and you can witness the panoramic views of the beautiful shops and colourful goods. You can visit the clock tower when you go to Sardar market for shopping. It will be located only a few steps away from the main bazaar.

Timings:

Everyday from 10 am to 8 pm.

Entry Fees:

Rs 25 per person.

 

Mandore Garden

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Mandore garden is located only a few minutes away from the main city of Jodhpur. The abandoned was left behind in 1459 CE and is among the top Jodhpur places to visit. The garden used to house the Rajput kingdom before Rao Jodha shifted to Mehrangarh fort for better protection. The garden still has some well-preserved structures from the 6th century and is an ideal place to go if you want to explore the history of the Rajput kingdom. You can avail of private vehicles which go to the site at budget costs. We recommend you spend some time here before leaving Jodhpur so that you can also learn the history of kings before they came to Jodhpur city.

Timings:

Everyday from 9 am to 10 pm.

Entry Fees:

Museum fee: INR 50/- per person

Park entry: Free.

 

Balsamand Lake

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Balsamand Lake in Jodhpur is an artificial lake built in the 12th century. The old lake used to be a reservoir for the people of Jodhpur and is now a part of a heritage resort. The lake is located only 5 kilometres away from Jodhpur on the Jodhpur-Mandore Road. Built by Balak Rao Pratihar, the lake is now a major tourist spot for people in and out of Jodhpur. This 1 km long lake is perfect for bird watching spots and a popular picnic place as well. You can take your children here and have a quick outing without travelling in the sun for long hours. The lakeside is pretty cool and perfect for watching the setting sun.

 

Ranisar and Padamsar Lakes

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Ranisar and Padamsar are two lakes situated next to each other. The lake was constructed over 500 years ago on the orders of a Rajput queen. In those times, finding water in the desert lands was extremely difficult; these lakes provided relief to the people and provided them with water for domestic activities. The lake is very picturesque and tranquil, with no crowds or people around. You can visit the lake to get some nice pictures and spend a few hours enjoying the cool ambience around. It is also a great picnic spot to visit with friends and family.

 

Kaylana Lake

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Kaylana Lake in Jodhpur is the ideal place for having some family time away from the city crowds. The artificial lake was created in 1872 under the ruler Pratap Singh. The lake was an important source of drinking water for the people of Jodhpur in the past. You can visit the lake and have a nice picnic in the cool waters of the lake. Various migratory birds also like to visit the place during winters and are truly a sight to see. You can travel to the lake by public transport and rest by the waters after a hectic day in the city.

 

Rai ka Baag Palace

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Rai Ka Bagh Palace in Jodhpur is a beautiful garden destination perfect for reposing. The garden was established in 1663 by Hadiji and also contains the Raj Bagh Haveli. The Octagonal-shaped bungalow is a fine specimen of Indian art and a perfect spot to capture some amazing still photos for social media. The beautifully landscaped gardens contain a huge variety of plants which keep the place cool and shady. The rock-carved structures inside the garden are also reminiscent of Rajasthani art. 

Timings:

Everyday from 12.00 am to 12.00 pm.

Entry Fee:

Free for all individuals.

 

Camping at Osian

Osian is an ancient desert village located around 69 kilometre from Jodhpur. It is also known as the Khajuraho of Rajasthan as there are 18 Hindu and Jain temples constructed during 8th and 12th centuries. Entry fee start at Rs 2,500.

 

Masuriya Hill Garden

The Masuriya Hill Garden is a scenic tourist spot located on the Masuriya Hills in Jodhpur. There is a temple of a local deity and a statue of Veer Durgadas Rathore, a well-known figure among the Marwari community. There are paved walking-paths and various structures.

 

Camel Rides

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A tour of Jodhpur is incomplete without a camel safari through the golden desert sands. You can seek camel ride expeditions which will take you through the unending desert sands nearby. You can catch the amazing sunset and enjoy the beautiful views of the place. Each person will be provided with a camel, and a guide will take you through the deserts. Nature photographers will find the ride beneficial for some amazing shots of the deserts away from the main city. Camel rides will also be a fun activity for children and will remain a fond memory.

Ride Prices:

Starting from INR 1200 per person.

 

Adventure

Jodhpur is popular among adventure enthusiasts as it offers a flying-fox or ziplining adventure at the Mehrangarh Fort. The overall activity takes around two hours and covers various lengths, offering views of the walls, the bastions, and the lakes.

 

Shopping 

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Shopping in Jodhpur will be a great experience for travellers and tourists. Rajasthan, especially Jodhpur, is known for its beautiful handicraft items, which can be purchased at budget prices. These handcrafted goods are extremely colourful and made with natural dyes. You can visit Sardar Bazar, which is a great place for shopping expeditions. You can purchase a variety of shoes, clothes, jewellery, and pottery, which are authentically made in Jodhpur. Remember to purchase some souvenirs for people back at home so they can appreciate Rajasthani art even when they are far away.

 

Local Cuisine

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The local cuisines at Jodhpur are must-have and among the top things to do in Jodhpur. You can find a variety of items containing both vegetables and meat which will totally satisfy your tastebuds. You can dine at Jodhpur’s fine dining restaurants or purchase some delicious street food from the stalls near the tourist spots. The notable items to try in Jodhpur are laal maas, mohan thal, ghewar, mohan maas, mawa kachori, dal bati churma, and kabuli pulao. Some places to eat in Jodhpur are Kesar Heritage Restaurant, Gypsy Vegetarian Restaurant, Dylan Cafe Restaurant, Gopal RoofTop Restaurant, Indique Restaurant & Bar, Bltreet café, and Kalinga Restaurant.

 

Check out: Have info. regarding Jodhpur pin code

FAQs

Is Jodhpur worth visiting?

Jodhpur is a beautiful city which has a rich historical and cultural heritage. The beautiful monuments and heritage buildings here are definitely a treat to the eyes and make it one of the best places to visit.

How many days are enough for Jodhpur?

To take a complete tour of Jodhpur, a trip of 2-3 days will be enough. You can also add additional days to relax away at the luxury hotels which are scattered across the city.

What is the famous food of Jodhpur?

When in Jodhpur, all tourists must try the local Rajasthani thali, which consists of several delectable dishes from Rajasthan and Jodhpur in general.

Is 2 days enough for Jodhpur?

Two days is ideal for a short visit to Jodhpur, which may include tour to the famous palaces and temples.

What is the best time to visit Jodhpur?

The months from October to February are ideal for visiting Jodhpur.

What is the best time to visit Mehrangarh Fort in a day?

The best time to visit the Mehrangarh Fort is in the morning.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at [email protected]