Enjoy the Desert Fort Views in Jodhpur
The Blue City Offers Many Memorable View Points
Jodhpur, known as the “Blue City” and the “Sun City,” is the second largest city in Rajasthan and the historical seat of the Rathore clan. Situated on the edge of the Thar Desert, Jodhpur offers one of the best preserved forts in India amidst some stunning backdrops. Compared to the other destinations on the Rajasthan tourist circuit, for me, Jodhpur offered the best overall from-a-distance views.
Even though it is a large city, it doesn’t always feel like it. The development as the city expanded feels less haphazard than some of its peers, leaving it quieter and more walking friendly. Its markets and restaurants often seem to pander less to tourists as well, leaving the touristy sections feeling more local. Overall, it’s a lovely city to explore.
Get the Best of All Worlds at Jaswant ThADA
A white marble cenotaph built in 1899 to honor the Rathore rulers, Jaswant Thada was perhaps my favorite spot in Jodhpur. While the building itself is pretty, what made it memorable for me was its manmade lake set against the stark backdrop of the Thar Desert - creating some really stunning views. It even had the best view of the Mehrangarh Fort that I found. The combination of stunning nature, classic Indian marble architecture, and views of the fort provide the best of all things Jodhpur in one place.
There is a gate entrance to Rao Thada Desert Park at Jaswant Thada - but you can only go in if you schedule a guided walk around the lake. I didn’t do it - but I imagine it’s really beautiful.
Take in City Views from Mehrangarh Fort
Considered one of the best preserved forts in India, Mehrangarh Fort offers a stunning cliffside backdrop for almost every spot in Jodhpur City. Unlike a lot of these gorgeous from the bottom structures, I actually do think its worth walking up and exploring the interior as well.
The fort itself has been privately restored - making it one of the of the best places to get a good sense of what the ornate Mahal chambers looked like near the time of construction. It’s been made into a museum - hosting over 15,00 objects - and is full of examples of local art, arms, and textiles. Most memorable for me, though, was its lookout points onto Jodhpur City. I think it’s the best way to understand why it is called the “Blue City” because you get to see the full stretch of blue buildings to the southwest of the fort. Plus, the walk up, to me, felt like heading to a mystical castle - often having a Hogwarts-esque feel.
Wander Through the Blue City
Southwest of the fort, you’ll find the main section of the Blue City - Navchokiya. This area is full of guest houses and restaurants - and has a ton of charming, blue-painted streets and alleys. It’s a wonderful area to just stroll through and get lost.
Other Things to Do
The main destinations of Jodhpur can be easily accomplished in one (busy) day. If you’re staying longer, though, here are some of the other common things to get up to:
Explore the Old City: Centered by the old clock tower, the center of the historic walled city of Jodhpur is full of local markets. To be honest, I didn’t find this area particularly charming - but it has some nice fort views and is so central that you’ll almost certainly stumble into anyway.
Take a Desert Walk: Near the fort, there is a section of desert that has been privately restored: Rao Jodha Desert Park. The main visitor center offers two nature walks; the green route has some of the best views of the fort and the blue city, especially along the stretches where you can go off trail and climb the city wall. I recommend going early morning or late afternoon (possibly even sunset) because the midday sun makes it near impossible to get good photographs of the most memorable views.
Ride a Zip Line: In Rao Thada, there are a series of zip lines (the Flying Fox) that offer remarkable views of the fort and the surrounding desert.
Take a Day Trip: From Jodhpur, you can take a day trip to Mandore (the original capital of the Rathor Clan) or Osian (known for the Osiyan Temple).
Check Out the Most Recent Indian Palace: You can visit the Unmade Bawan Palace, the last royal palace built in India (1929 - 1943). Part of it still hosts the royal family and the rest has been made into a luxurious hotel. While it’s mostly off limits except for guests, you can visit either the museum or the restaurant inside to get a sense of the interior.
Relax at Kailana Lake: Just outside of Jodhpur is Kailana Lake - where you can relax and just enjoy the local nature views.
I think it’s fair to only schedule one full day in Jodhpur on your route to Jaisalmer or Udaipur. It is a high quality of life city for relaxation, though, so I could definitely see someone staying longer.
