Based in one of the driest places in north India, Jodhpur represents an oasis of majestic architecture, bustling streets and historic relics. The most prominent sight is the impressive Meherangarh Fort that lies at the top of a sheer rocky cliff and presides over the aptly named Blue City.
The 16th-centuary grandeur of the old city is a living display of culture and tradition with a vibrant mosaic of palaces, temples, havelis, spices and fabrics creating a kaleidoscope of colours and tantilising aromas that pervade the senses.
Founded in 1459 by chief Rao Jodha of the Rajput clan (known as Rathore), originally the city boomed on the profits of opium, sandalwood, dates and copper. Today, trade is still an essential part of life in The Blue City, and learning to bargain and hustle is part of the local language; the charm of the experience completed by the smiling saree-clad women and turban-sporting mustached men.
Wandering the Brahmin-blue laneways of the old city will unearth local treasures: festooned regalia, boxed-cuff trousers, trinkets, spices and snuff. Wander the Mandore Gardens, bargain a route down Palace Road or visit the local craft villages to experience the other side of one of India’s grandest cities.
Highlights
Exploring the 5kms of Mehrangarh Fort – one of the largest and most impressive in India | Jaswant Thada – white marble cenotaph | Umaid Bhavan Palace and Museum
Interesting facts
− Jodhpur is the second largest city of Rajasthan
− Mehrangarh Fort was started by Rao Jodha in 1459, but most of the forts are from the period of Jaswant Singh (1638 to 1678)
