Founded by Rao Jodha, chief of the Rathore clan of Rajputs 1459, Jodhpur is the erstwhile bastion of the Marwar rulers and Rajasthan's second-largest city. This ancient desert outpost drew its importance and riches from its strategic position on the caravan trade routes from Central Asia from ancient times. Dominating its skyline is the massive 15th century, 125m- high, Meharangarh Fort on the hilltop.
Summoning up delightful vignettes of an exotic world are Jodhpur’s many palaces and pavilions, temples and havelis – a delight for the history and culture buff. The serpentine narrow streets and tight alleyways of the walled city mark their time from the days of its life as a trading post by the Thar Desert. To counter the monochrome tones of the desert, men in colourful turbans and handsome moustaches, women in glittering mirror-work skirts and evocative odhnis, as they go about their daily chores from homes to bazaars to fields.
Over time Jodhpur has earned the double sobriquet of ‘Blue City’ as well as the ‘Sun City’ which have given the city its unique identity. While some have it that the houses in the Old Quarter were painted blue to deter termites (eating into old buildings) others believe it’s to keep the houses cool, while others say it was a sign of the high caste Brahmins. Be that as it may, the whole impact is quite aesthetic and quite a distinguishing characteristic for the old city. And ‘Sun City’? Well, Jodhpur as we know is the favourite child of the sun all year round!
Apart from its old architectural marvels, Jodhpur is known for its houses that have been traditionally painted blue since the 15th century; it’s also loved for its ancient step wells, lively bazaars and exotic food. Join us in an easy ramble of explorations and experiences of Jodhpur in all its distinctive ways. Our walk will take us through the antique bazaars full of colour and vibrancy. A walk through the old city offers us interesting insights into the city's cultural roots and deep traditions that define the character of this ancient desert outpost.
*Heritage walk can also be done in the evening.