The Blue City of Jodhpur in India 2024-2025
Situated in the Thar Desert, this city boasts a collection of indigo houses
Best time: October–March
The city of Jodhpur is the second largest in the state of Rajasthan, founded about 500 years ago. It is well-known for the blue color painted on the majority of its houses. Not all neighborhoods in Jodhpur have the same house paint. But, if you head into the older quarters of Jodhpur located by the centuries-old Mehrangarh Fort, that was founded in 1459, you will see that most of the houses in the area are indeed blue. Buildings with the various shades of azure stretch for more than 10 km along the walls of the old quarter.
Why blue
According to one theory, the blue colour was associated with the Brahmins, India’s privileged caste and the blue houses used to belong to their families. According to another theory, termites were the reason. Adding copper sulfate to standard whitewash, Jodhpur residents managed to keep annoying insects from damaging their buildings.
The old quarter of Jodhpur, situated near the Mehrangarh Fort, is the most popular location to marvel and photograph the blue houses. The area is full of markets, handicraft shops and historic sites that give visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the city.
What else to see in Jodhpur
The Mehrangarh Fort is also a must-see. The architecture of Mehrangarh is impressive, and it offers a spectacular view of Jodhpur's Blue City. The fort is located on a 125 m hill, and its walls are 36 m tall. The fort museum showcases the heritage and artistry of the Rathore dynasty. Additionally, the fort has Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, and Moti Mahal, and the Chamunda Devi temple within the complex.
Best time to visit
Jodhpur's weather conditions can be extreme, and temperatures can reach unbearable levels in May and June. It is most comfortable to visit Jodhpur for its weather from October to March. The winter season is particularly enjoyable, with moderate temperatures, refreshing breezes, and clear blue skies.