Best Things To Do In Jodhpur India
Known as the “Blue City,” Jodhpur is a fantastic blend of vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning architecture that enchanted us as soon as we arrived. From its majestic forts and palaces to the maze of blue-painted streets that earned it its nickname, this city is an experience straight out of a fairytale.
Planning a trip to Jodhpur and wondering where to start? In this blog post, we’ve narrowed it down to the 8 absolute best things to do in Jodhpur so you can skip the guesswork and get to exploring. Let’s Dive In!
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Check Out Our Firsthand Experience In Jodhpur On YouTube!
The Best Things To Do In Jodhpur India:
1. Explore Mehrangarh Fort
Perched high above the Blue City, Mehrangarh Fort is Jodhpur’s crown jewel and one of the most magnificent forts in India. Built in the 15th century, this architectural masterpiece boasts massive walls, intricately carved windows, and expansive courtyards that echo centuries of history. The Fort’s impressive museum is home to many royal artefacts, elaborate palanquins, and vibrant paintings that bring India’s history to life.
Our favourite part was the breathtaking views from the ramparts, where the sweeping panorama of Jodhpur’s iconic blue rooftops meets the golden hues of the Thar Desert. This Fort is truly a must-visit spot that captures the essence of Rajasthan’s regal charm.
Best Jodhpur Day Tours
If you are looking to tick off lots of the best things to do in Jodhpur, we highly recommend booking a day tour or even a multi-day tour. These tend to be very affordable and make seeing all the top sites a breeze! Our top picks are below:
2. Zipline Around Mehrangarh Fort
Zip lining around Mehrangarh Fort was one of our favourite activities throughout our entire India trip! The course consists of 6 different thrilling zip lines and provides a way to experience this majestic landmark from a whole new perspective. Soaring above the fort’s rugged walls and over scenic landscapes, the activity combines adrenaline with breathtaking views.
The Best part is undoubtedly the incredible views you are treated to as you fly through the air! You can see all of the Blue City, the golden desert beyond, and even the fort’s surrounding lakes and gardens. It’s an unforgettable experience and 100% one of the best things to do in Jodhpur.
You can pre-book a zipline adventure at Mehrangarh Fort below:
Top Tip
Take sunscreen and wear clothes that cover you if you are fairer skinned! You are very exposed throughout the zip line course which can take 2 hours to complete.
3. Wander Around The Blue City
If there is one thing you have to do in Jodhpur, it is to check out the iconic blue city! The labyrinth of narrow, winding streets lined with houses painted in varying shades of blue makes for an awesome afternoon!
If you are lucky, you’ll encounter friendly locals, bustling markets, and hidden courtyards adorned with intricate carvings. The contrast between the bright blue walls and the golden sunlight creates a perfect backdrop to capture some great pictures! There’s no doubt that the Blue City really captures the essence of Jodhpur’s charm.
You can choose to wander around the blue city on your own or book a guided tour for a very reasonable price to show you all the top spots and help you capture some great pictures. Below is our top pick:
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4. Join A Desert Safari
Next on the list of the best things to do in Jodhpur is a desert safari!
Just a short journey from Jodhpur city, the Thar Desert opens up with its vast stretches of golden dunes and captivating tranquillity. You can choose to explore on camelback or in a 4×4; either way, it is a fantastic experience and a stark contrast to the bustling city!
Along the way, you’ll encounter remote villages, witness stunning sunsets that paint the sky in fiery hues, and savour authentic Rajasthani cuisine under a canopy of stars. Many safaris also include cultural performances with folk music and dance, making it a perfect blend of adventure and cultural immersion.
5. Visit Sardar Market
A visit to Sardar Market is a vibrant dive into the heart of Jodhpur’s local life. Located near the iconic Clock Tower, this bustling market is a maze of colourful stalls brimming with everything from fragrant spices and traditional textiles to handcrafted jewellery and pottery. It’s also a food lover’s paradise, with plenty of opportunities to sample local treats like kachoris and lassi. You could easily spend an afternoon here, wandering the streets and taking in Jodhpur’s charm!
6. Check Out The Jodhpur Stepwell
Toorji Ka Jhalra, Jodhpur’s stunning stepwell, is a hidden gem that combines history and architecture with a great photography backdrop! Built in the 1740s, this intricately designed stepwell was once a vital water source for the city and remains a testament to the ingenuity of Rajasthani craftsmanship. Descend its symmetrical stone steps to admire the geometric beauty and feel the cool air radiating from the water below. Today, the stepwell is surrounded by trendy cafés and shops, making it a perfect spot to relax with a coffee after exploring the iconic blue city.
7. Join A Jodhpur Food Tour
Next on our list of things to do in Jodhpur is to join a food tour! This was actually one of our favourite activities in the city, which is home to some famous food stalls! One of the most famous is a lassi shop: Shri Mishrilal Sweet Shop, which sells the most delicious Lassi we have ever tasted! You can choose to book a guided food tour which can take you to all the top spots! You can check out our top picks below!
We have also created a guide on how to enjoy street food in India while avoiding the dreaded Delhi Belly! You can check it out here: Street Food In India | 12 Top Tips To Avoid Delhi Belly!
8. Explore The Unique Bishnoi Village
Last on our list of things to do in Jodhpur, but certainly not least, is a visit to the Bishnoi Village! This was one of the most wonderful experiences we have had throughout our time in India! Just a short drive from the city, this cultural excursion takes you into the world of the Bishnoi community. Pictured above, the Bishnoi women are easily recognisable from their red dresses, nose rings and ankle bracelets; you can even try on some of the traditional clothing!
If you are fortunate to visit, you’ll witness traditional pottery-making, weaving, and handicrafts being created by skilled artisans. You’ll also hear fascinating stories about the Bishnoi people’s efforts to protect the region’s flora and fauna, including their famous role in wildlife preservation. If you are lucky, you’ll even get to try your hand at traditional weaving! It’s a humbling and inspiring experience that showcases a harmonious way of living, deeply connected to the natural world.
Check Out Our Firsthand Experience At The Bishnoi Village On YouTube!
You can book an afternoon trip to the Bishnoi village, which includes transfer to and from Jodhpur below:
How Long Should You Stay In Jodhpur
Deciding how long to stay in Jodhpur depends on the pace you wish to explore and what you hope to experience, but in general two to three days is ideal for most. This gives you enough time to explore the city’s highlights, like the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, the vibrant Sardar Market, and the iconic Blue City lanes, without feeling rushed. If you want to dive deeper, consider adding an extra day to join a desert safari, take a Bishnoi village tour, or simply soak in the city’s charm at a leisurely pace.
Where To Stay In Jodhpur
Here are our top recommendations for where to stay in Jodhpur:
The Best Time To Visit Jodhpur India
The best time to visit Jodhpur, like much of Rajasthan, is between October and March when the weather is cooler and dry, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C.
January and February are the coldest months, with night-time temperatures often dropping below 10°C, so it’s wise to pack warm layers for the evenings. Keep in mind that winter months, particularly December to February, can occasionally bring foggy conditions, which might affect visibility.
Conclusion – The Best Things To Do In Jodhpur
Jodhpur is a city full of magic, history, and unforgettable experiences. From the towering Mehrangarh Fort to the winding lanes of the Blue City, every corner has a story to tell. It’s the perfect place if you wish to soak in the local culture, explore bustling markets, or step into the desert for an adventure! We hope our guide to the best things to do in Jodhpur has inspired you to dive into everything this incredible city has to offer.
Don’t hesitate to let us know any questions you might have in the comments below!
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Beth and Denz