6 Places in Jodhpur That You Must Add to Your Bucket List

Jodhpur, also known as the Blue City, is one of my favourite cities in Rajasthan, and not without reason. Built at the foot of the massive Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur has a plethora of options –- right from sightseeing and shopping, to desert safaris and unique food experiences. Here are 6 places to visit in Jodhpur that you cannot miss on your next trip to this beautiful city.

1. Mehrangarh Fort

One of Jodhpur’s most popular attractions, the Mehrangarh Fort rises 400 feet above the city of Jodhpur and makes for a spectacular sight. The fort dates back to the 15^th century and is home to many beautiful palaces, the most popular being the Sheesh Mahal, or Palace of Mirrors. Head to the top of the fort to take in a splendid bird’s eye view of the city of Jodhpur, sprawled out below. While you’re here, don’t forget to take some fun selfies with the city views in the backdrop. Drop by the museum shop for fun souvenirs and gifts before you leave.

Opening Hours: 9 am – 5 pm
Entry fee: Rs. 60*
Location: P.B No 165 , The Fort, Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342006

2. Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park

Situated at the base of the Mehrangarh Fort, the Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park also ranks high in the list of places to visit in Jodhpur. The park was created to restore native plant species in the region. It has a rugged, hilly terrain and boasts of many walking trails, perfect for a long hike. This is also a great place for bird and butterfly watching, and if you’re a daredevil, then there’s an option for ziplining too!

Opening Hours: 8am-6pm Oct-Mar, 7am-7pm Apr-Sep
Entry fee: Rs. 50*
Location: Near Mehrangarh Fort

3. Umaid Bhavan Palace

Synonymous with Jodhpur, the grand Umaid Bhavan Palace is quite a favourite among tourists visiting the city. Home to Maharaja Gaj Singh and his family, half of this palace is now being operated by the Taj Group as a heritage hotel. The other half of the palace is the royal residence and also has a museum boasting of royal portraits, vintage cars and other historic artefacts from the many royal families of Jodhpur. Reasons enough for Umaid Bhavan Palace to be listed among the top places to visit in Jodhpur, without a doubt!

Opening Hours: 10 am to 4:30pm
Entry fee: Rs. 30*
Location: Circuit House Rd, Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342006

Read More: The Jodhpur Food Pilgrimage: What to Eat and Where

4. Mandore Gardens

Located a few kilometres out of Jodhpur, Mandore was the capital of Marwar before the city of Jodhpur was founded. Today, the Mandore gardens are home to cenotaphs of previous rulers of Jodhpur. Constructed in deep red sandstone, one of the highlights of the gardens is the Chhatri of Maharaja Dhiraj Ajit Singh, a beautiful amalgamation of Buddhist and Jain architecture. What’s more, there are many temples and temple ruins in the premises of the garden, which are a shutterbug’s delight!

Opening Hours: 4 am – 10 pm
Entry fee: Entry is free*
Location: Mandore, Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342007

5. Jaswant Thada

​

Built as a memorial to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, Jaswant Thada is a beautiful white structure, complete with opulent domes that offers stunning views of the Mehrangarh Fort. Dating back to the 19^th century, the Jaswant Thada boasts of beautiful jaali work and offers visitors a peaceful environment, far from the madness of city life.

Opening Hours: 8 am – 5 pm
Entry fee: Rs. 15, Camera/Video: Rs. 25*
Location: Lawaran, Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342001

6. Kaylana Lake

A man-made lake, the Kailana Lake is not just one of the most popular places to visit in Jodhpur but also among the most visited lakes in Rajasthan. Sprawling over an area of 84 square kilometres, the lake is a perfect spot for birdwatching and also offers stunning sunset views. Constructed in 1872, the grounds around the lake were home to animals like Wild Boar and served as a hunting ground for the royals back then. Today, the Kailana Lake is a popular picnic spot where visitors can enjoy boating or simply stroll through the verdant lawns.

Opening Hours: Morning to evening
Entry fee: Entry is free*
Location: Kalyana Lake, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, 342007

Thrilled already?

Book Your Jodhpur Holiday Now!

*Timings and prices may vary