Attractions Nearby Jodhpur, Day Trips and Excursions

(Jodhpur, India)

The Indian state of Rajasthan is brimming with quality attractions, all of which are within easy reach of Jodhpur and often highly suitable for enjoyable day trips. Jaipur is one of the biggest Rajasthani attractions are is relatively close to Jodhpur, as are the cities of Jaisalmer and Udaipur.

A little beyond Jaipur and to the north-east of Jodhpur are the cities of New Delhi and Agra, the latter of which is home of the world-famous Taj Mahal and many other spectacular attractions and monuments. Nearer to home are the tourist destinations of Ajmer, Bikaner, Osiyan (Osian) and Pushkar, all of which offer their very own character and set of ancient temples, while to the far south, Mumbai may be too far for day trips, but is only a cheap overnight train ride away.

Ajmer

A busy town residing next to the tranquil waters of Ana Sagar Lake, Ajmer is located to the east of Jodhpur and surrounded by prominent hillsides. Ajmer is home to the very famous shrine of Khwaja Muin-ud-din Chishti (Khawaja Moinuddin Chisti) and has become something of a leading destination for Muslim pilgrimages. A number of leading attractions are based around the Ana Sagar, such as the Dault Bagh Park and also the Subash Bagh Park, while the Dargah neighbourhood forms the town's historical old quarter. On the outskirts of Ajmer, the ruins of the Adhai-din-ka-Jhonpra mosque are worthy of attention.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: free

Bikaner

Bikaner is very much a desert town and stands directly north of Jodhpur and Naguar, where its premier attraction has long been its magnificent fort. The old walled city of Bikaner manages to retain much of its original medieval character and historic 'havelis' (private Indian residences). Many tourists visit Bikaner on their way to the southerly Karni Mata Temple, where holy rats are worshipped. Desert safaris from Bikaner are recommended and are greatly increasing in popularity.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: free

Bishnois Villages

The Bishnois Villages are made up of a community actively worshipping nature and wild animals. Jeep safaris around the Bishnois are becoming popular and guides will point out wildlife along the way, with common sights including deer and antelopes (black bucks, chowsinghas and chinkaras), some of which can often be seen roaming around the villages.

Jaipur

A stunning Rajasthani city boasting endless hilltop fortifications and spectacular royal palaces, Jaipur is well known for its pale pink sandstone architecture and is often referred to as the 'Pink City'. Sited to the north-east of Jodhpur and near to Pipar, Jaipur is filled with busy bazaars, superb shopping opportunities and a good choice of accommodation, with the leading attractions never being far from the central Mirza Ismail Road (MI Road). The Moti Doongri Temple is a particular favourite for many a tourist, as is the Amber Fort, the Jaigarh Fort and the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds), amongst many other wonderful sights.

Jaisalmer

The 'Golden City' of Jaisalmer is famed for its splendid sandstone fortress, which is known as either the Golden Fort, the Sonar Kila or the Jaisalmer Fort. Further attractions in this busy tourist city include an array of beautiful Jain temples and 'havelis'. However, a large number of tourists head to Jaisalmer for its camel safaris, which have become almost legendary in India and therefore in great demand. If you can find the time, do visit the Sunset Point (Vyas Chhatri), near to the fort, and enjoy the wonderful views across the cityscape.

Mount Abu

Mount Abu really is a very unique destination in Rajasthan and is home to the only hill station in the entire state. This scenic town is reached along a winding hillside road and comprises a number of excellent hotels, which tend to surround the expansive Nikki Lake. Various attractions present themselves around Nikki Lake, such as a series of unusual rock formations and the Raghunath Temple, which dates back to the 14th century. For the best views across Mount Abu, come to the Sunset Point, the Crags or Honeymoon Point. Don't miss visiting the Dilwara Temples, which are reputed to boast some of the finest temple architecture in India.

Osiyan (Osian)

Osiyan is a mere 60 km / 37 miles to the north of Jodhpur and almost overflowing with Jain and Kali temples, and ancient cenotaphs. Often referred to as the 'Gateway to the Thar Desert', Osiyan is now very much a desert oasis and a good spot to enjoy a camel safari, or even a game of camel polo. The Sacchiyay Mata Temple is a must-see attraction in Osiyan and a much-photographed sight.

Nathdwara

The town of Nathdwara sits to the south of Jodhpur, within the Aravalli Hills and alongside the Banas River. Nathdwara has become rather renowned for its magnificent temple of Lord Shrinathji (Shri Krishna), which actually houses an ancient 12th-century image of Shrinathji - a deity form of Krishna. The temple itself is named the Haveli of Shrinathji and actually once functioned as a royal palace.

Pushkar

Pushkar is a small and rather enchanting desert town and stands directly to the east of Jodhpur, around 11 km / 7 miles from Ajmer. Home to some 400 temples and many eye-catching onion domes, Pushkar has become rather touristy in recent years and now contains a wealth of guesthouses and budget accommodation. The town itself has grown up around Pushkar Lake, where over 50 different bathing 'ghats' are to be found. A labyrinth of streets spread out from its main thoroughfare of Sadar Bazaar Road and connect the main places of interest. The most notable of all Pushkar's temple attractions is the Brahma Temple, along with the Pap Mochani Temple and the Savitri Temple.

Ranakpur

A truly spectacular white-marble complex and one of the world's most famous Jain temples, the Ranakpur temple is the premier attraction here and comprises no less than 29 halls, and a total of 1,444 individual columns, no two of which are actually alike. Sited to the south of Jodhpur, Ranakpur's main temple is the Chaumukha Mandir (Four-Faced Temple), which was completed almost 600 years ago. Both the Neminath and the Parasnath temples are also of note here, along with the Sun Temple and the neighbouring Amba Mata.

Udaipur

Udaipur is an especially romantic city and although today it has been rather influenced by commercial tourism, it does successfully manage to hold on to much of its historic character and appeal. Lake Pichola is the source of the main attractions in Udaipur and its overall size depends upon both the time of the year and the severity of the monsoon rains. Enjoying a lakeside setting, the City Palace is a truly awesome landmark and of epic proportions, and is to be found alongside the Jagdish Temple. Standing on the Jagniwas Island and actually within Lake Pichola, the aptly-named Lake Palace is yet another sumptuous sight.