Jodhpur Blue City (Brahmapuri)

Overview

Jodhpur's old city, spread below Mehrangarh Fort, is famous for its houses painted in shades of blue. Jodhpur was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, and the blue-washed area, associated with the Brahmin quarter, is often called Brahmapuri.

The colour is traditionally said to mark Brahmin houses, and it also helps keep the interiors cooler, though the exact origin is debated. The best views of the blue maze are from the ramparts of Mehrangarh.

What to look for

• The view from the Mehrangarh ramparts
• The narrow lanes and blue doorways at street level
• The Clock Tower and Sardar Market for local life

Visiting tips

• Explore on foot with a guide: the lanes are narrow and confusing.
• Go in the morning for soft light and fewer crowds.
• Respect residents' privacy and ask before photographing people.

Why visit with a private guide

A private guide shows you where to stand, when to arrive and what most visitors miss at Jodhpur Blue City (Brahmapuri), and fits the visit around the rest of your day.

More photographs

Nearby

Jaswant Thada Mehrangarh Fort Ranakpur Jain Temple Pillars Umaid Bhawan