Jodhpur, the stunning blue city of India, is an underrated beauty that offers people a look into the wonders of Rajasthan through a different colored lens. Situated near the edge of the Thar Desert, Jodhpur is the second-largest city in Rajasthan and is a must-have on your travel itinerary when traveling through the state.
Photo by Mohit GuptaJodhpur stands out like a precious jewel amongst other cities due to the bright blue painted rooftops and houses that make up the city. There’s no specific historical reason as to why the houses in Jodhpur are painted blue. Locals from different parts of the large city have their own reasons. Some believe that the blue paint keeps the houses cool, while others claim that it is painted in honour of Lord Shiva. Nonetheless, this is truly a sight to behold, and the best way to take this stunning view is from the Mehrangarh Fort.
No trip to Jodhpur would be complete without a visit to the mighty Mehrangarh Fort. Built on a rocky hill 400 feet above the city, the imposing, timeworn burnished red sandstone fort is a monument that preserves the history of Rajasthan. The fort was constructed around 1459 by Rajput ruler and chief of the Rathore clan, Rao Jodha. The name Mehrangarh, which translates to Fort of the Sun, is a reference to the clan’s mythical descent from the sun god Surya. One can easily spend the better part of a day exploring the fort and the palaces it holds while listening to colourful stories narrated by the guides. When you’re done taking in the antique craftsmanship inside the fort, head out towards the compound at the back of the Mehrangarh Fort to drink in panoramic views of Jodhpur.
Photo Courtesy Daspan HouseIf you get a chance to visit during October, don’t miss out on the annual edition of the Rajasthan International Folk Festival held at the fort. Here you can enjoy traditional folk music performances by the Muslim Langa & Manganiar singers. The festival also hosts other folk artists and musicians from India as well as from the globe. It’s a must-visit event for music enthusiasts.
Unlike most other parts of Rajasthan, Jodhpur is home to copious vegetarian street food and pure veg restaurants. From the Jodhpuri Mirchi Vadas and Kachoris to the Jodhpuri Kabuli, this city is a paradise for veg lovers!
One of the best ways to truly experience the wonders of Rajasthan is by staying at a heritage house, and that brings us to our pick for Jodhpur— Daspan House.
Photo Courtesy Daspan HouseBuilt-in 1921, at the beginning of the luxurious art deco era, this home is one of the finest in Jodhpur. The very halls of this stunning boutique hotel hold untold stories of the family that once lived there. The intricately carved sandstone building made up of high ceilings, decorative spiral staircases, and cut-glass chandeliers allows you the opportunity to feel as if you are living in a world gone by.
The ancient house took two years to renovate before the hotel opened its doors in 2020. Just as when it was first constructed, the renovations were done by Rajasthan’s finest craft workers to respect and showcase the local traditions and craft. Daspan House is now a blend of marvellous authentic old architecture with modern contemporary interiors, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind!
Each of the 18 rooms has large old windows that offer you a view of the old Khajoor tree situated at the centre of the lush green Mughal styled garden down below. Overlooking the beautiful courtyard is the in-house restaurant Old Loco. Not to be confused with the Spanish word loco, the restaurant is named after the nearby Old Loco Road, which got its name from Indian Railways’ Locomotive shed just a stone throw away from the hotel. The bar and restaurant, from the painted art and frames on the walls to the furniture, exudes an old palatial vibe. The 60-seater red restaurant cum café is studded with matt-gold ceiling lamps and white and black striped tiles. Don’t miss out on swimming a few laps or just floating in their infinity pool that overlooks the entire property.
Photo Courtesy Daspan HouseDaspan House has also created a platform known as Soapbox where they celebrate art in every form. They have collaborated with artists and curators of Rajasthani folk music and organised events at the hotel named Sufi Rang, a night filled with poetry and music. Whether it’s an artist residency program, intimate music gigs in the drawing-room, showcasing world cinema in the open, guest takeover’s at Old Loco bar, showcasing a region-specific cuisine or partnering with the famous Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF) and Sufi Festival— through Soapbox, Daspan House organises monthly events for their guests to enjoy an immersive experience during their stay.
Whether you spend two days in Jodhpur or a week, it simply is a must-visit when in Rajasthan!
Written by Mohit Gupta
Week 39 October 2021
