North India’s desert state of Rajasthan is full of fairytale cities, and Jodhpur is no exception. Dubbed the Blue City for the blue-washed homes that cascade from the base of Mehrangarh Fort to the heart of the city, this regal spot was once the capital of the kingdom of Marwar. Today its beautiful historic castles and palaces draw in visitors, and many of the most popular things to do in Jodhpur revolve around experiencing its regal history.
The best time to visit Jodhpur is between October and March, when the weather is at its most pleasant, though cooler winter days tend to attract bigger crowds. October is a good time to come to the city if you're a fan of music, as it coincides with the annual Rajasthan International Folk Festival, known locally as Jodhpur RIFF.
The best way to get around Jodhpur is by taxi or auto-rickshaw, and auto-rickshaws are particularly convenient for navigating small lanes or to hail a ride quickly. Taxis can be called using ride-sharing apps, but if you plan to visit many different spots, it’s sometimes more efficient to hire a car with a driver for the day.
For meals with a view, head over to the Stepwell Café, below Mehrangarh Fort. The café gets its name because it looks out over the Toorji Ka Jhalra Bavdi, a beautifully restored stepwell that was once used to harvest and collect water for year-round use. While it’s a great spot to take photos, the food in itself is enough to merit a visit, but you have choices—the menu features everything from filling calzones to fragrant biryani.
