Experiences

The Toorji Ka Jhalra stepwell was built in the 1740s by Maharaja Abhay Singh’s Queen, continuing the tradition of royal women commissioning public water works, reflecting the centrality of water collection in women’s household chores. Recent restoration uncovered over 200 feet of hand-carved rose-red sandstone, revealing intricate details like dancing elephants, lions, and water-spouts. Its original mechanism featured a Persian Wheel driven by bullocks. Today, the Jhalra remains a key, though neglected, part of the Walled City’s water network.

Jodhpur offers family fun, from relaxing in the hotel’s shaded alcoves with board games to the thrill of the Flying Fox. Ethical shopping is available at Sambhali Boutique, which sells embroidered crafts benefiting rural women. Guests can enjoy hands-on Cookery Courses with the hotel chef or market culinary tours. For dining, the neighboring Stepwell Café provides views of the beautifully restored Toorji Ka Jhalra Stepwell, which has become a vibrant community space.

Instantly recognizable as the Blue City due to its indigo houses, this Walled City is an eccentric hub of activity. Explore temples, shops, elegant Jharokhas, and the remnants of its walls, notably the six monumental Pol gates. Beyond the blue, the city delights in architectural details, including ancient Deodi entrances, exquisite Jaali friezes, and sacred Chowk squares. The Clock Tower Market is a popular stop, but true shopping gems are Sarafa Bazaar (for silver jewelry) and Bibaji Churi Wale (for unique bangles). Complete your visit with dinner at a rooftop restaurant like Pal Haveli or Fortitude for great food and panoramic views of Mehrangarh Fort. 

For guests seeking village tranquility outside Jodhpur, Osian, an oasis in the Thar Desert (about a 90-minute journey), is ideal for half-day trips. Osian is home to some of Rajasthan’s oldest Hindu and Jain temples, including the prominent Sachiya Mata Temple and the beautifully carved Mahavira Jain Temple. Popular activities, best enjoyed as the day cools, include Camel Treks across the dunes, often concluding with an unmissable sunset dinner. Additionally, guests can experience spectacular Traditional Folk Dances in the village; the concierge can arrange all excursions, though camel trek prices and availability may vary seasonally.

Start with the Rao Jodha Desert Park, a restored expanse of volcanic rock beneath the fort, offering early morning guided tours to spot wildlife and learn about local flora. For a longer outdoor adventure, an intermediate level Horse Riding trip is available 40km away, typically lasting 2-3 hours. A must-see is the Bishnoi Villages, a desert community known for strict environmental protection, where members historically made the ultimate sacrifice at the Khejarli Massacre to protect their trees. Half-day excursions provide a guided jeep tour to observe traditional crafts like pottery and carpet weaving, and may include witnessing a traditional, mild opium ceremony, which is legally permitted for their religious practices. 

Mehrangarh Fort is Jodhpur’s must-see site, best visited early morning with an audio guide to appreciate its fascinating history and extensive royal collections; the fort’s high vantage points offer incredible city views. For adventure, the Flying Fox Zipline offers an exhilarating ride across six lines over the fort. Afterward, cool off at Jaswant Thada, a white marble cenotaph with serene gardens perfect for a picnic. Conclude the day by exploring the restored 18th-century Chokelao Bagh gardens at the fort’s base, followed by dinner at the Chokelao restaurant, which provides the best possible view of the illuminated fort and Jodhpur.

Umaid Bhawan Palace, a blend of royal residence and hotel, offers a small museum section and an exclusive restaurant. High-end jewelers like Gems and Jewels Palace are located near the palace on Circuit House Road. For traditional, affordable silver, visit Sarafa Bazaar. Lalji Handicrafts on Circuit House Road is a must-visit treasure trove for ethically sourced smaller antiques and curios, with shipping available.