Quick Guide to explore Indias blue city- Jodhpur in just 36 hours

Just 600km from Delhi, Jodhpur is 1hr by flight and overnight journey by a train from Delhi. Situated on the edge of the Thar desert, Jodhpur is the gateway to the desert. Another ecstatic weekend was spent exploring the magnificent fort, relishing the Rajasthani cuisines, wandering in the lanes of the blue city.

Let me share a tale of 36 hours in Jodhpur.

#1: Start the day with chai and snacks

Jodhpur is known for its mouth water snacks. Pyaaz Kachori, Mirchi Bada, Mava kachori are to name few. While all the snacks are mouth watering, however Mirchi bada has always been most exciting snack for me. Full grown chilly is marinated in gram flour before deep-frying it. Tough it seems like normal pakoda but real favour burst it felt when chilly strikes in month. All these snacks tastes best with served with the masala tea. Though there are numerous outlet in every nook and corner, however Janta Sweet Home at Nai sarak is one of the most prominent outlets.

#2: Magnificent Mehrangarh Fort

Remember the prison scene from Batman: Dark Knight rises, believe me that was one of the spectacular views of Mehrangarh fort. Built-in 15th century, the fort is situated approx 400 feet above the town. The fort comprises of palaces namely sheesh mahal, Moti mahal, Museums, restaurants.

While the fort itself is grandeur, the architecture is spectacular. The view of the blue city from the top of the fort is mesmerizing.

#3: Jaswant Thada

Situated on the way to Mehrangarh fort (walking distance between the two), Jaswant Thada is also known as Taj Mahal of Marwar. Situated on the hilltop, this place has mesmerisinging surrounding. The well-maintained garden and lake at the entrance make it picturesque and the full view of Mehrangarh fort is breathtaking.

#4: Walk tour in all blue painted lanes and bylanes of the old town.

We explored the narrow lanes of the old city during the evening. The walk started from Rao Jodha rock park which is situated at the periphery of of the Mehrangarh fort. As we explored the Havelis, century-old temples, local bazaars but the highlight of the evening was all blue painted lanes of the old city. Walk tour ended with a picturesque sunset shining over Mehrangarh fort. We not only witnessed the true traditions and culture of Jodhpur but also came to know about amazing historical facts about Jodhpur. Walk Tour is highly recommended if someone wish to feel the true vibes of the city.

#5: Dinner at the rooftop restaurant of Pal Haveli

This rooftop restaurant gives a breathtaking view of Mehrangarh fort. Enjoy your food and drinks as you view the mighty Mehrangarh fort standing tall glowing with lights in the night. This overall experience itself is incredible.

#6: Jeep Desert Safari

Another awesome experience in Jodhpur is Jeep safari. As we crossed the Jodhpur after 30 minutes of the drive, we found ourselves in the arid and barren area. We were on the way to witness the wildlife in outskirts of Jodhpur, Blackbuck, chinkara and migratory birds. Though it is named as desert Safari, however, there are no sand dunes like that of Jaisalmer still it is an enjoyable experience.

Next, we met the locals of Bishnoi community in one of the local village. Learned about their tradition, enjoyed authentic food with locals.

Another interesting event of this trip was the opium ceremony. It is a small gathering of people wherein the visitors drink filtered opium mixed with water from the palm of the head of the family. This is centuries-old ritual celebrated in these villages.

#7: Umaid Bhawan Palace

The palace is basically the residence of the royal family of Jodhpur. While part of palace is converted into the hotel, there is also a museum open for the visitors. While it is nice place to learn about history of royal family. However if you are short of time, I personally think it can be skipped.

#8: Stay in the old city at the foothill of Fort

Though there are numerous hotels in Jodhpur from ultra-luxurious to budget, however, I would suggest booking a hotel in the old city. The only reason for this suggestion is to cherish the breathtaking view of the fort from the hotel itself.