The Blue City Of Jodhpur | A Mélange Of Colors

What better way to start than a saunter in timeless alleys lined with Jodhpur’s characteristic blue houses?

The bustling Sardar Market is an assault to the senses like no other – there is an explosion of color around every corner. Here a bangle seller displays his wares for ladies with the iconic clock tower in the background.

Alleyways as old as time itself welcome curious visitors to the ancient city of Jodhpur.

Jodhpur is a foodie’s haven. Street vendors will lure you with delicious grub as you walk through the market. Grab yourself a chai and enjoy these crunchy delicacies as you make your way through narrow alleys lined with colorful houses.

No visit to Jodhpur is complete without a visit to the majestic Mehrangarh Fort. Perched handsomely atop a hill, the fort offers some of the most spellbinding views across the Blue City. It’s easy to spend the entire day marveling at its intricately carved walls and reliving history.

Just as the houses and the history of Jodhpur, the people here believe in color, too. One can spot men and women adorning colorful garments and bedecked in rustic jewelery. Seen here is an expert puppet maker who has been doing this job for the last four decades.

On the way to Mehrangarh Fort, a short detour takes you to Jaswant Thada, a cenotaph built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. The best time to visit this gorgeous building is at sunset, when the soft rays of the sun lend a warm glow to the white marble.

What’s better than the view of the Blue City from the Mehrangarh Fort viewpoint? A view of the Mehrangarh Fort towering over the blue houses. No matter where you go in Jodhpur, chances are you will catch a glimpse of the Fort looming over the city. Have a cup of masala chai on one of the many roof top cafés and watch the sun set over the Fort. The magic begins once the fort’s lights come on.

Many people who visit Jodhpur don’t venture out into the countryside and as a result miss out on a whole new experience. Organizations such as Overlander India organize off-roading trips into the heart of the wilderness where visitors can meet Bishnoi villagers, have a meal with the locals, spot wildlife unique to this part of the country, and spend some time interacting with kids. It’s a perfect day out in the desert, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Spot the ever elusive black buck? That split second when it stares into your camera and shows off its majestic horns – priceless!

A discussion about the way the Bishnois sustain themselves and how they worship nature over a home-cooked meal at a villager’s house deep in the desert.

After a languorous meal and a substantial dose of affection from the villagers, take a walk to the primary school in the village where adorable kids can be seen interacting with each other and flaunting toothy grins. Spend some time with the kids, sit through one of their lessons, and enjoy the cute little tales they tell you.

End the day out at the desert with a perfectly cooked fusion meal at ITC WelcomHotel Jodhpur, which is nestled deep in the desert, away from the commotion of the city of Jodhpur. In winters, sit outside with a hot beverage and enjoy the chill while listening to folk singers dole out some local tunes.

Be it a short weekend break or a week-long trip, there is tons to do in Jodhpur. It’s a perfect getaway to savor all that Rajasthan has to offer.

By Savi and Vid
Savi and Vid are avid travelers who are on a world tour which has no end date. They love exploring offbeat destinations and blog about their adventures on Bruised Passports. You can also follow them on Facebook and Instagram for a daily dose of color, adventure, and madness.