Known for its indigo-painted buildings in the old quarter, this Rajasthani city centers around the 15th-century Mehrangarh Fort, which rises 400 feet above the desert landscape.
From the 400-foot Mehrangarh Fort, you can look down at Jodhpur's maze of blue-painted houses spreading across the Thar Desert landscape. Walk through Sadar Market's narrow lanes where vendors sell aromatic spices and fresh produce, explore 15th-century stepwells carved from sandstone, or watch craftsmen shape glass bangles in their small workshops. In the evening, climb the fort's ramparts to see the sun set behind the Umaid Bhawan Palace.
Inside Mehrangarh Fort
As you climb through Mehrangarh Fort's seven gates, you'll pass into courtyards built in the 15th century. The Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace) contains five carved alcoves where queens sat behind latticed windows to observe court proceedings. In the Phool Mahal, intricate gold-leaf patterns from Gujarat cover the walls and ceiling. The museum displays royal palanquins, hand-woven textiles, and ceremonial weapons. Pick up an audio guide to learn about the battles fought at each gate and the ceremonies held in each courtyard.
Walking Through Brahmapuri District
In the Brahmapuri neighborhood below the fort, 33,000 houses wear coats of blue paint made from indigo mixed with limestone. This coating keeps indoor temperatures cool even when outside temperatures reach 100°F (38°C). As you walk through the narrow lanes, you'll pass small Hindu temples and local shops selling everyday items. Local guides can explain the area's unique construction techniques and introduce you to residents.
Traditional Food Spots
The streets around Sadar Market and Clock Tower fill with food vendors each evening. At Shahi Samosa, join the queue for pyaaj kachori - crispy pastries filled with spiced onions. Janta Sweet Home makes mawa kachori stuffed with dried fruits and milk solids. For a full meal, sit down at Mehran Terrace for a Rajasthani thali that includes ker sangri (desert beans) and laal maas (spiced meat curry).
Getting Around and When to Visit
You can reach Jodhpur by flying to New Delhi (360 miles away) or Jaipur (220 miles) and taking a connecting flight to Jodhpur Airport. Visit between October and March when temperatures range from 50-75°F (10-24°C). Auto-rickshaws connect major landmarks and charge fixed rates. Wear comfortable shoes with good grip for the old stone streets and bring water bottles, especially for fort visits.
Local Crafts and Shopping
The streets around Clock Tower house workshops where you can watch craftsmen make mojaris (leather shoes) using centuries-old techniques. At Sambhali Boutique, women from nearby villages sell their handwoven textiles. For fixed prices on marble items, carpets, and metal utensils, visit the government handicraft emporium.
