Jodhpur Favorites

Favorite thing: I just had to add a bit about this colourful character, who is a huge tourist attraction inside the fort, smoking his Opium Pipe. He is almost always in the same spot, and draws curious visitors, who seem as fascinated by his exhibition of opium smoking as by his huge moustache!

Favorite thing: Take the opportunity to listen to the audio tour within the Mehrangarh Fort as it's one of the best I've listened to. You can pick it up after entering through the main entrance gate (Jai Pol) on the left. It's included in the price of admission. The commentary for the tour, authentic history and family lore; descriptive, evocative and highly informative, is embellished with the reminiscences and views of the Royal Family. The Maharaja Gaj Singh II, who ascended to the Gadi of Jodhpur in 1952 at the age of four, the 38th Rathore Chief in direct line from Rao Sheoji (1226-1273), shares his memories of the moving Raj Tilak Ceremony at Mehrangarh.

Favorite thing: Legend has it that Brahmins of yester-year painted their homes blue in order to ward off mosquites. . .

Nowadays, the colour has spread to many other homes and buildings. It may not be effective for the original use, but it casts a beautiful hue over the town and makes for some amazing photos.

Fondest memory: Watching sunrise and sunset over the city, whether it's from the fort or from a rooftop restaurant, is even more appealing because of the vibrant colours.

Favorite thing: Part of the wonder of travel is that we can not only learn from the places we go and people we meet, but that they can also learn from us. It takes some effort and forethought, but can deepen the relationships you make along the way.

We carried photos and postcards from Canada and brought them out whenever it was appropriate. Being able to share our lives with the Bishnois family we visited (among others) was a treat.