Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India-7-day-itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
- Arrival: Arrive at Jodhpur Airport or take a train/bus to the city center.
- Morning: Check-in at Hotel Umaid Bhawan Palace (luxury), Jaswant Thada Guest House (mid-range) or Pipalia House (budget).
- Afternoon: Visit the Umaid Bhawan Palace, a majestic palace built in 1943, and explore its opulent interior.
- Evening: Enjoy local street food at Shankar’s Street Food or try some delicious Rajasthani cuisine at Mehmangarh Restaurant.
Day 2: Forts and Palaces
- Morning: Visit the Mehrangarh Fort, one of India’s largest forts, perched atop a hill.
- Afternoon: Explore the fort’s intricate architecture, visit the Phool Mahal (Flower Palace) and see the stunning views from the fort’s ramparts.
- Evening: Take a stroll through the narrow alleys of Pipaliya Gate, a historic entrance to the city.
Day 3: Local Markets
- Morning: Visit the bustling Bishnoi Market for local handicrafts and souvenirs.
- Afternoon: Explore the colorful stalls at Sardarpura Market, where you can find everything from textiles to trinkets.
- Evening: Enjoy a sunset view at Mehmangarh Fort’s Ramparts or relax at your hotel.
Day 4: Wildlife and Nature
- Morning: Visit the Bishnoi Village Tour, which offers insights into the local wildlife and community conservation efforts.
- Afternoon: Explore the Kailana Lake and its surrounding forests, where you can spot migratory birds and other wildlife.
- Evening: Enjoy a peaceful evening at your hotel or take a stroll around the city.
Day 5: Adventure
- Morning: Take a guided trek to the top of Mehrangarh Fort for breathtaking views of the city.
- Afternoon: Visit the Kala Rangi Art Gallery, which showcases traditional Rajasthani art and crafts.
- Evening: Try some thrilling activities like paragliding or camel riding at Sardarpura Village.
Day 6: Spiritual Sites
- Morning: Visit the ancient Jaswant Thada Cenotaph, a beautiful white marble structure with intricate carvings.
- Afternoon: Explore the peaceful surroundings of Mehmangarh Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and the local Bishnoi community.
- Evening: Enjoy a tranquil evening at your hotel or take a walk around the city.
Day 7: Departure
- Morning: Check-out from your hotel and explore any last-minute shopping or attractions.
- Afternoon: Depart for Jodhpur Airport or take a train/bus back home.
Things to Know
- Weather: Jodhpur experiences extreme temperatures, so pack accordingly (summer: 45°C/113°F, winter: 10°C/50°F).
- Language: Hindi and Marwari are the primary languages spoken in Jodhpur; English is widely understood.
- Currency: Indian Rupee (INR) is the local currency.
Transportation
- Getting Around: Hire a car or take an auto-rickshaw to get around the city.
- Public Transport: Use buses or shared autos for public transport.
- Taxis: Book a taxi or hire one through your hotel for transportation within the city.
Tips and Recommendations
- Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly, remove shoes when entering temples or homes, and respect local traditions.
- Bargaining: Practice bargaining at markets and stalls to get the best prices.
- Safety: Be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas and avoid traveling alone at night.
Accommodations
- Hotel Umaid Bhawan Palace: Luxury
- Jaswant Thada Guest House: Mid-range
- Pipalia House: Budget
Restaurants
- Shankar’s Street Food: Local street food
- Mehmangarh Restaurant: Rajasthani cuisine
- Kala Rangi Art Gallery Cafe: Traditional snacks and refreshments