Jodhpur’s old city spreads out beneath its great fort, with blue lanes, stepwells and markets to explore on foot.
- Mehrangarh Fort — One of India’s most imposing forts, rising from a rocky hill, with richly decorated palaces and a fine museum.
- Jaswant Thada — A graceful white marble memorial near the fort, set among gardens with views over the city.
- Umaid Bhawan Palace — A grand 20th-century palace, part museum, part hotel and part royal residence.
- Clock Tower and Sardar Market — The busy heart of the old city, packed with stalls selling spices, textiles and handicrafts.
- Blue City lanes — Wander the indigo-painted neighbourhoods below the fort, especially around Brahmpuri.
- Toorji ka Jhalra — A beautifully restored stepwell surrounded by cafés and shops.
- Mandore Gardens — Historic gardens north of the city with cenotaphs and temples of the former rulers.
Jodhpur has a hot desert climate with plenty of sunshine. From about April to June temperatures are extremely high, and the short monsoon from July to September brings occasional rain. Winters are dry and sunny, with warm days and cool to cold nights.
October to March is the best time to visit, when exploring the fort and old city on foot is comfortable. The Rajasthan International Folk Festival, held at Mehrangarh Fort around October, celebrates the region’s music, while the Marwar Festival, also in autumn, showcases local culture. Pack layers for winter evenings, which can be surprisingly chilly.
Jodhpur Airport lies south of the city centre, only a short drive from the old city and the main hotel areas. It shares its site with an Indian Air Force base and handles domestic flights to major Indian cities.
Taxis and app-based cabs are available outside the terminal, and many hotels arrange pick-ups. Auto-rickshaws are the easiest way to get around the old city, where lanes are narrow and often too tight for cars. Photography restrictions apply around the airport because of the military presence.
Jodhpur offers heritage guesthouses in the old city as well as palace hotels and modern properties in newer districts.
- Old city near the Clock Tower — Atmospheric havelis and guesthouses with fort views; ideal for first-time visitors.
- Navchokiya and Brahmpuri — Blue City lanes right beneath the fort, suited to travellers seeking local character.
- Ratanada and Paota — Newer, quieter areas with larger hotels, convenient for the airport.
- Around Umaid Bhawan — Upscale and spacious, for travellers looking for a calmer, more luxurious stay.
- Money: Hotels and larger shops accept cards and mobile payments; carry cash for rickshaws, markets and small cafés.
- Getting around: Walk in the old city and use auto-rickshaws for longer hops, agreeing the fare before you set off.
- Etiquette: Dress modestly and ask permission before photographing people in residential lanes.
- Health: The desert sun is strong, so wear a hat, use sunscreen and drink plenty of bottled or filtered water.
- Shopping: Bargain politely in markets and buy spices and textiles from established shops.
Frequently asked questions
Which airport serves Jodhpur?
Jodhpur is served by Jodhpur Airport (JDH), located south of the city centre.
How do I get from the airport to the city centre?
Taxis, ride-hailing apps and hotel pick-ups are the usual options; the drive to the old city is short.
What currency is used in Jodhpur?
India uses the Indian rupee (INR). Cash is handy in the old city, while cards are accepted in larger establishments.
Do I need a visa to visit Jodhpur?
Entry requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Check RwandAir’s travel requirements tool or the official government website before travelling.
When is the best time to visit Jodhpur?
October to March is dry and comfortable for sightseeing. April to June is extremely hot.
Why is Jodhpur called the Blue City?
Many houses in the old city beneath Mehrangarh Fort are painted in shades of blue, creating a striking view from the ramparts.
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