Jodhpur - a city that prides its palaces and forts, swells with culture and tradition, and is full of color and texture. Jodhpur is often known for its old city - a maze of blue sugar cube houses stacked in narrow, unpaved, dusty lanes, filled with charm and authenticity. It's a city that is untouched by mass tourism, allowing its places and people to remain their normal, unconstructed selves.What To Do In Jodhpur The streets and alleys boasting weathering layers of blue are quiet, calm, and certainly make you feel like you have stepped back in time. Locals leisurely carry out their daily routines against the blue washed walls, making it a photographers dream. Although the reason for why Jodhpur's houses are painted blue is not entirely clear, many say its either to repel heat, to wards off mosquitos, or due to the majority of population being of the Brahmin caste who worship Lord Shiva, who's color is this exact blue. The best way to explore the Blue City is to simply get lost in its entanglement by foot, and see where you end up. Although there are many tours available, I think its best to wander on your own, without a schedule or plan, stopping off where your heart desires then taking an auto-rickshaw back to where you need to be. Visit Jodhpur's Spectacular Temples
Jodhpur is home to over 100 Hindu temples that cant be missed, even if you are not seeking a spiritual experience.Here is a list of my favorite temples in Jodhpur.• Thakur Ji Shree Raj Ranchhodji Temple - a beautiful red sandstone temple with gardens.
• Mahamandir Temple - after traveling through a maze of narrow lanes you will reach the Mahamandir Temple - a stunning temple with lots of intricate hand chiseled work from 1812. • Jaswant Thada - although not a temple but a cenotaph, this hidden gem in Jodhpur is situated amongst lush green trees perched tenderly on a lakeside. Note: When visiting Hindu temples, dress modestly covering your legs and shoulders. Also practice responsible photography respecting these are grounds of worship. Visit Toorji Ka Jhalra - Jodhpur's Step-well When visiting Jodhpur, one of the often missed, yet most stunning places is Toorji Ka Jhalra. Toorji Ka Jhalra is an old step well that was built in the 1740s by Rani Tawar Ji, consort of King Abhaya Singh of Jodhpur. This is one of the few step-wells in Rajasthan that is open to visitors.I recommend going to Toorji Ka Jhalira in the evening before sunset, when the yellow glow from the low sun illuminates the steps, and the infamous honking seemingly subside for a moment of calm. Indulge In Jodphur's Street Food Jodhpuris are known to love their food and its pretty evident from their preparation of it. From tasty desserts to savory pastries, Jodhpur is a foodie's playground. Here are some of my favorite places and things to eat in Jodhpur: • Gulab Jaman - a sweet Indian dessert soaked in a sugar syrup. • Mirchi Bada (or sometimes called Mirchi Bajji) from Janta Sweet Home • Piyaaz Kachori from Janta Sweet Home, Chand Vilas Namkeen or Shahi Samosa • Chai from any Jodhpuri tea stall • Rajasthani Thali - this can be from most good restaurantsVisit Mehrangarh Fort Hailed as one of the most beautiful forts in Rajasthan, Mehrangarh Fort is a must visit when in Jodhpur. Not only is the fort an architectural masterpiece carved from a hill in 1459, but the views of the old and new city from Mehrangarh Fort are spectacular. Many rooms within the former palace are open for viewing and act as a museum, and there are multiple courtyards, corridors, balconies and galleries, making it a very popular site for Bollywood movie filming and photoshoots. Some tips for traveling Jodhpur:- Most local and small places prefer cash over card. The weather is hot all year round so dress accordingly. Cottons, linens and light layers are recommended. Take sunscreen with you. Jodhpur is generally safe, however, I do recommend a tour guide if you are a female solo traveler. Always negotiate a price with auto-rickshaws before getting in. Offer half of what they ask for and meet somewhere close to that. Don't be afraid to walk away if they don't lower it - they will always agree on close to fair price. Haggle on everything you buy from the markets, outside of food and drink. Cre: Anika Pannu