Marwari dialect is spoken throughout Western Rajasthan, particularly in and around Jodhpur. This greeting is heard every now and again – in every street, every shop, every neighbourhood. The Blue City, the cultural capital of Rajasthan, is known as “the Blue City” and is a wonderful repository for ‘apnaayat”, an extreme affection in hospitality.
Everything is vibrant and lively here, with joy evident in every pixel. Blue city boasts an old walled area or “Shahar” and a maze filled with indigo-blue-painted houses, narrow alleyways, colourfully dressed women, turban-laden males, tourists, residents, and shoppers. You will often see honking traffic, which includes bullocks, cows, and dogs. You should definitely feel the vibe when you are on your Jodhpur Tour.
Jodhpur’s richness is in festivities, a mix of vibrant communities and glorious history, friendly neighbourhoods, diversity of languages and dialects, culinary repertoire. It is difficult to put into words the soul of this city. It is an enchantment. It is a way to live. It is a transmigration of your hearts and souls. It is falling in love with life, people, and joy.
This is my home! It is where I grew up. There I have witnessed countless celebrations at our rich festivals, religious fairs, and community celebrations. Jodhpur has a saying: A Festival Everyday; A Sweet Every Minute and a Smile Every Second.
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A Joyous Vibe
Jodhpur, which is also the gateway to the Thar Desert, happens to be the second-largest city in Rajasthan. It’s in the streets that the city’s soul is revealed.
Parkota and Sadar Bazaar, Ghantaghar and Navchokia are all pedestrian-friendly streets lined with many shops, temples, and friendly residents. They often welcome you to take a peek into their homes and perhaps share a cup of chai. Jodhpur is a place that exudes kindness and affection.
After walking through the old quarter of the city, past the clock tower, climb the hilltop fort, The Majestic Mehrangarh Fort, to explore its palaces’ rich history and architectural splendours. Also, get a bird’s-eye view of the blue splendour below. Locals and pilgrims will be able to hear the soaring temple bells from the Chamunda Devi Temple. You might even be able to take the perfect shot of the blue city below.
Jodhpur is alive with energy when it comes time to celebrate any kind of holiday celebration, no matter what the ethnicities or communities that live in the city. You can see processions that celebrate the most important festival, marriage. Winter months are when the city is most alive for marriage, which runs from October through March.
Jodhpur is also a popular destination for fashion, education, sports, and filming Bollywood movies. Jodhpurs, or riding breeches, were created here in the 19th century. Jodhpur’s rich traditional ensembles, such as the Bandhgala suit or tie-dye Bandhani prints that sway, have hugely impacted fashion.
These are the Must-See Spots
The bustling GhantaGhar (clock tower) is where all aspects of life come together. Every alleyway in the inner city leads to an amazing experience of colours and smells, people, affection, and love.
Tourists also can visit Umaid Bhawan Palace, a part of a former royal residence and houses an eclectic collection of vintage cars. The Jaswant Thada is a royal crematorium, also known as the “Taj of Marwar”. Mandore Gardens is worth a visit, as they are a popular spot for picnicking by local families.
The newly renovated Sardar Museum was inaugurated in July. It is located in the park. It is one of the most important archaeological museums in Rajasthan. It houses rare textiles, weapons and belongings to the Royal Families.
You will be reminded of the mega-pantheon, which is resonating with the sound of temple bells by Jodhpur’s many busy temples.
Treats and Food
Shri Mishrilal’s is Asia’s most famous lassi shop, and it’s an unforgettable experience. You can find the best egg bhurji and omelettes at this small stall just past the second gate. Locals and tourists will enjoy the eggs with bread slices. This stall is advertised as having been mentioned in guides books from Lonely Planet and Fodor’s.
The Janta Sweets Shop is a must-see for any stay that you should review. It is located in Nai Sadak and serves Jodhpur’s famous sweet, Ghewar. It is a type of soft, syrupy milk cake. RasMalai is a saffron-laden, syrupy dish that can be substituted for the usually steamed dumplings.
The Blue Boy hails from the Blue City.
On an Intrepid trip with Steve Davey, we captured the sunset over Mehrangarh Fort from the roof of a local family’s home. It wasn’t until a member of the group took photos that we realized I was wearing blue!
It’s a matter of pride to be from such a magical place, where strangers are treated like old friends and hugged like their family. It is a place where people are willing to offer their help without asking. After being an Intrepid leader in the community for 13 years, I find it rewarding to walk through my childhood streets and discover hidden gems within my own city.
