6 Tourist Places You Cannot Miss To Visit In Jodhpur

Jodhpur is a city with vivid art, culture and heritage, surrounded by dusty desert. Forts and palaces dominate the list of must places to visit in Jodhpur, but equally attractive are the blue houses. Over half of the houses in Jodhpur are painted blue or they have a blue roof (or blue doors at least). And this blue cover has earned Jodhpur the nickname – The Blue City.

However, it’s the charm of majestic Mehrangarh Fort which pulls tourists towards the city. The architecture of the fort and the palaces and temples under its aegis is exemplary. Also, the landscape surrounding the area has numerous lakes and gardens to visit.

If you want to experience the vibrant blues up close, visit the Brahmpuri area. And then, you have Ghanta Ghar (clock tower) and the surrounding Sardar Market to explore the tastes and traditions of Jodhpur.

# Mehrangarh Fort

Mehrangarh Fort was built by Rao Jodha in 1459, and it is one of the biggest forts in India. It has several huge gates, including Jayapol (victory gate built by Maharaja Man Singh) and Fatehpol (victory gate built by Maharaja Ajit Singh). And the thick walls of the fort contain several palaces known for their intricate carvings and expansive courtyards.

Inside the fort, you’ll also find a museum. It has royal palanquins, arms and other artefacts belonging to the kings.

# Phool Mahal

Phool Mahal (or Palace of Flowers) is the most lavish palace in Mehrangarh Fort. It was built by Maharaja Abhaya Singh in the 18th century for leisure. Its design and style will provide you with a glimpse of the extravagant lifestyle of the maharajas of Jodhpur.

The palace is decorated like a beautiful flower, with a pleasing splash of colours. The pillars and ceilings are adorned with gold carvings. You’ll find many beautiful portraits and paintings here. And the artefacts and furniture, too, enhance the grandeur of Phool Mahal.

# Sheesh Mahal

Sheesh Mahal (also known as Glass Palace) is a part of the Mehrangarh Fort. The intricate mirror work from ceiling to floor portrays the features of the royal Rajput architecture. Various colourful ornaments and craft items decorate the ceilings.

It is one of the most beautiful palaces in Jodhpur, and brightly coloured paintings complement the decor of the palace. These paintings are of various religious figures including Lord Shiva and Parvati, Lord Krishna and Lord Rama among others.

A grand chandelier further adds to the beauty of the palace.

# Chamunda Mata Temple

Chamunda Mata Temple is among the oldest temples in the city which is known for its beautiful engravings too.

It is said that Rao Jodha brought the idol from its original residence at Mandore, and established it here. The temple is on the southern end of Mehrangarh Fort.

People consider Chamunda Devi as the saviour goddess of Jodhpur. And she has been revered by the royal family too. Thus, the temple is a pilgrimage site for the Hindus. Devotees come here to take the blessings of the goddess, especially during the festival of Dussehra.

# Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park

Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park is right next to the Mehrangarh Fort. The desert park was created to save the ecology, the vegetation and the rock formation of the region.

Many native plants and trees of the Thar Desert were planted. And it is among must-visit places in Jodhpur with family, near the fort. It offers multiple walking trails and scenic views of the fort and town. These trails take you past rock formations and through the desert landscape.

# Ranisar-Padamsar Lake

Ranisar Lake is another of the top places to visit in Jodhpur. It is close to Mehrangarh Fort, located on the rear of it. The serenity of the lake captivates both locals and tourists. Adjacent to Ranisar Lake is Padamsar Lake. And they have a reflection of the grand fort.

These scenic lakes were built over 500 years ago, to conserve water. And they rarely dry, even though they are in a desert area.