Jodhpur Overview

Jodhpur- The Blue City

Located in western Rajasthan this bustling desert city is the second largest in Rajasthan after Jaipur. The capital of the warrior Rathores the City of Jodhpur was founded by Rao Jodha the chief of the Rathore clan in 1459 after whom the city is named. The Jodhpur is popularly known as the "Sun City" as sun shines very bright here through out the year. Jodhpur is also known as the Blue City, an apt name as most houses in the old city are shades of blue. This is particularly noticeable on the north side of the town, known as Brahmpuri for the many Brahmins that live there. The city now stands divided into two parts, the old city and the new city. The old city of Jodhpur is enveloped by a 10 km long and immensely thick wall and the entrance for the city is from the massive twin domes of Fateh pol.

Due to its strategic position and proximity with many trading centers like Arabia, Persia, Agra and Delhi the Jodhpur city flourished in the medieval ages especially when the Rathores struck an alliance with the Mughals in the 16th century. The city was on the silk route of 16th century and hence was host to number of travellers.

The main attraction of the city is the massive Mehrangarh fort, one of the largest forts in India. Housing numerous palaces, galleries, a temple and a museum inside it, the fort reflects the talent of the Jodhpuri artisans. Apart from that, various other attractions like a number of lakes, gardens, museums, temples, etc make Jodhpur travel and tourism a truly fulfilling experience. The most alluring part of the Jodhpur is the traditional lifestyle, festivity and smiling people who treasure this former princely state. Jodhpur city is a paradise for people who love to buy handicrafts, antique and ethnic goods. The City market is filled with traditional handicrafts and fine Jodhpuri fabrics and camel leather goods.

Climate in Jodhpur:Jodhpur climate is of an extreme type with high the variations in temperature. Jodhpur has a typical desert climate which is dry and hot. In summer, the maximum temperature is around 42 °C and the minimum temperature is around 37 °C. In winters, the maximum temperature is around 27.5 °C and the minimum temperature is around 15.5 °C. Jodhpur is bright and sunny throughout the year. The average annual rainfall is approximately 32 cm. The best season to visit the city is between October and March, when the climatic conditions in Jodhpur are the best.

How to reach Jodhpur

By Air:The Jodhpur Airport is 5 km from the city center. Regular flight services connect the city with other major cities in and around Rajasthan. There are daily flights to Delhi, Mumbai, Udaipur and Jaipur.

By Train:Jodhpur is well connected by the railway lines and it is well connected by direct trains from all metros and major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Barmer, Bikaner, Ajmer, Alwar, Agra, Kanpur, Allahabad, Gaya, Kolkata, Indore, Lucknow, Varanasi, Patiala, Chandigarh, Kalka, Jammu, Chennai, Bangalore and Hyderabad. One can also travel to Jodhpur by Palace on Wheels.

By Road:The main highway between Jodhpur and Jaisalmer is via Agoli and Pokaran. The highway is well connected with Agra, Ahmedabad, Ajmer, Delhi, Jaipur, Jaisalmer and Udaipur by bus.

Local Transport:Means of transport in Jodhpur include Taxis, Auto-rickshaws and Tongas. Taxi stand is near the main railway station. Auto-rickshaws are best suited for the narrow lanes of the old city. One can also explore Jodhpur with a bicycle.

The forts and palaces, temples and havelis, culture and tradition, spices and fabrics, colour and texture, a booming handicrafts industry, all add up to make this historic city worth a visit.