What is the first thing, you can think of when I say – JODHPUR?? Must be the fort!!! and I agree, its got no comparison, but there are other things that many don’t know about. And therefore, I bring to you 10+ 1 offbeat things to do in Jodhpur.

So lets take you on a virtual tour here.

1. Heritage Walk / Blue City Walk

Well of course, nothing new! That’s what the city is known for. But this time when you visit Jodhpur, don’t just see the blue terraces only from the fort, but have the privilege of walking down the lanes of the city. Thrilling? It is, indeed! Have a look at the wonders of this city of royalty and get mesmerised.

● Where? – In and around Clock Tower, Sardar Market, Navchokiya. Take assistance of locals or you can always use your GPS navigation.

● When? – Early mornings

● Most Suitable Season – Winter Season

2. Witness Sunrise

Okay! Just imagine watching the sun go up right after embracing the blue city standing at the highest point of the town – The mighty Fort or The Tekri (A lesser-known viewpoint )

● Where? – The “Tekri” right behind the Fort Mehrangarh .

●When? – Best would be if you check the sunrise timing before making the plan.

3. Rooftops with a View and Mocktails

I know, the best combination ever! You must have seen plenty of rooftops, but have you ever sat by the​ candle light and beheld the beauty of world’s most magnificent fort? I promise you, this will be a lifetime experience worth saving in your photo albums.

●Where? – Jodhpur has plenty of rooftop restaurants

●When? – Anytime of the year is a best time for mocktails! Isn’t it?

4. Celebrate Holi at Ghanshyam Ji Mandir, Juni Mandi

Haven’t we grown up watching photos and videos of Mathura celebrating Lord Krishna on Holi and marking the victory of good over evil. What if I tell you that Jodhpur’s Ghanshyam ji mandir celebrates Holi with same level of excitement and enthusiasm. The same kind of energy, you will find here, where the people accept colours or smear colours on each other’s faces as the divine offering to Lord Krishna.

•Where? – Ghanshyam Ji Temple, Juni Mandi, Old City.

•When? – Every year on Holi.

While you’re in Rajasthan, check these out too : 10 Best Marketplaces in Rajasthan for Foreigners

5. Brunch at Chokelao Bagh

So a lot of people don’t know about this hidden gem, which is inside the fort itself. It’s a garden of the Maharaja where he grows everything from flowers to bananas and saffron to what not. But why I like the place so much is because, you can feed the squirrels chocolate there. Seasonal restaurant serves biryani and dal baati churma, which is absolutely exotic.

●How to reach? Ask for tickets at the ticket counter of the Fort.

● When? – Winters is the time, when they open dining.

6. Bird’s Eye View from The Clock Tower

Puzzled? Many of us aren’t aware of the dazzling and enchanting view that the clock tower or colloquially known as the Ghanta ghar has to offer. Yes! You can actually climb up the stairs up till three storeys and not only enjoy the 360° view from the top but also can see the clock from within. Popularly known as the replica of the London’s Big Ben.

•How? – Right below the main tower, there’s an entrance, which leads you to the staircase to the top.

•When? – Morning 10:00 AM to evening 05:00 PM

• Ticket – A minimal amount of ₹20 is charged from Indian Nationals.

7. Visit The World of Queens

So, your Blue City, Jodhpur is not only about the huge conquests of Marwar kings and their palaces, but also the architecture of this city talks about the elegance and beauty of their queens. Visit Ranisar Padamsar lake – a twin lake located within the vicinity of the fort, which was built in the 15th century by Rani JasmaDe.

•Where? – Fateh Pole, Near Mehrangarh Fort, Chand Bawri.

•When? – Any time of the year is a good time, but winters or early mornings are recommended.

8. Toor Ji Ka Jhalra

Talk of the desert and next question would be – “Do you have water there?” And therefore you must visit this magnificent stepwell, inside the heart of the old city. An unknown gem, hiding itself for years now, which was built by the local merchants to ensure availability of water. The water is emerald green and in summers kids from the local area come in to enjoy a bath and their dives into the water is a must watch!

9. Let Your Taste Buds Explore Jodhpuri Delicacies

Ever thought of setting your taste buds free and letting them explore a city unknown?? Well there’s so much that your tongue can tell you about a city. Relish the cuisine of Jodhpur from grand Thaalis to its dessert. Jodhpur has something in store for everyone.

•For the Sweet Tooth –

• Gulab Jamun of Chaturbhuj
• Lassi and peda of Mishrilal
• Rasgulla of Gangaram Ghasiram
• Rabro laddoo of Mohan ji sweets

•For the Love of Spicy Food –

• Ghee ki Kachori – Narayan Mishthan
• Mirchi Bada – Janta Sweet
• Chaat – Brajwasi Chaat
• Samosa – Shahi Samosa

10. Visit The Taj Mahal, Jodhpur

There’s not only one but two Taj Mahals that India has got. One being at Agra, the other one is in Jodhpur. The Jaswant Thada also known as the Taj of Jodhpur or Marwad is a cenotaph built in the memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh ji by his son. This marvel is built purely of Marble and is a treat to look at during sunrise as the sunlight reflects on the marble and turns the moment into a golden hour! Such Romance.. Much wow!

•Where? – Lawaran, Mehrangarh fort.

•When? – Early mornings or evenings.

11. Attend RIFF Festival

Just like we plan our vacations to Nagaland or Kuchch to attend the folk festivals. Did you know? There’s a festival called Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF) that’s organised every year in Jodhpur. It’s a fusion of marwari folk and international music.

The events starts from dawn and go on till late night, including sufi music, to fusion, showcasing local talent as well as foreign artists and ending with after parties. This is one experience, that must be ticked off your list.

•Where? – Mehrangarh Fort, The clock tower and Jaswant Thada

•When? – October- November

You know, one can never stop talking about the city so beautiful, and about its art and culture. Because a few points are never enough to describe the beauty and charm the artists and the traditions hold here. All we can say is, Jodhpur is not only a city but its a feeling, that we relish each day.