Jodhpur - The Blue Jewel of Rajasthan

Jodhpur is deep in the heart of the Thar Desert in the state of Rajasthan, and is its second largest city. Jodhpur has its own special charm and is often referred to as the ‘Blue City’ due to the vibrant blue painted buildings all over the city. It is said that the blue paint was to keep the houses cool in the scorching Rajasthan summers, long before any air conditioning was invented, as well as to repel insects. The blue is also associated with Lord Shiva and the colour of the sky.

The city was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, who was a Rajput, one of the warrior rulers of Rajputana, the former name for Rajasthan. Jodhpur is famous for so many things, including royal history, stunning architecture, handicrafts, Jodhpur boots, and as the gateway to desert activities. The famous riding trousers, called jodhpurs, were originally adapted from transitional Indian attire and made popular in Britain by Pratap Singh, who was a son of the Maharaja of Jodhpur. 

Parts of Jodhpur are surrounded by an 18th-century wall, and the city is overlooked and dominated by the incredible Mehrangarh Fort. The Fort contains the Maharaja’s palace, as well as a historical museum. The entire complex has been beautifully preserved and is well worth a visit. The Fort offers the best panoramic views of the blue houses of Jodhpur. 

Jodhpur has many other notable buildings, including the Umaid Bhawan Palace. This is home to the Jodphur royal family and also doubles up as a luxury hotel. Don’t miss seeing the impressive white marble Jaswant Thada, which is a memorial to the 19th-century ruler, Jaswant Singh II. 

The Blue City is a tangle of winding, ancient streets, with numerous shops, stalls, and bazaars at every turn, selling everything you could think of and plenty of things you might not have thought of! 

The best way to experience Jodphur is to take a walking tour with a local guide. You will get amazing insight into the city close-up, and the colours of the houses and doors are like something from a ‘Farrow and Ball’ colour chart. This place is truly a photographer and artist’s dream!