The bustling markets of Jodhpur have a riot of colours, glitter, shimmer and shine. They exude the local culture and are a delight to shop in. You must take lots of cash and empty bags to shop and carry your stash. You will most likely find something to match your taste and style, whether it is over the top or subtle and subdued. Shopping in Jodhpur is retail therapy that will give you a dopamine rush and leave you craving for more. Here is our Jodhpur Shopping Guide with our list of things to shop in Jodhpur.
1. Tie and Dye/ Bandhani – Top on list of things to shop in Jodhpur
If you love Bandhej/ Bandhani or Leheriya fabric in ombre shades or contrasts, then do head to the Tripolia Bazar or Nai Sarak. Suits, sarees, dupattas there is so much on offer that it can get confusing what to shop and what to skip. The ‘gota’ borders make a perfect embellishment for bandhani.
2. Mojari
For traditional footwear like juttis and mojaris, the Mochi Bazaar/Cobblers Market is a good bet. Available in endless colours and patterns these handstitched leather beauties team well with traditional attire. They can sometimes cause a shoe bite but will soon mould to the shape of your feet. Another option is to pick the ones which are open from the rear.
3. Traditional Jewellery
Jhumkas, necklaces, anklets, bracelets, bangles made with beads and mirrors and silver adorn the local brides and women. Bangles in lac adorned with mirrors are popular at the famous Bibaji Churi Wale. Do pick up the Rajasthani Borla maang tikka reminiscent of Deepika Padukone in Padmavat. The roadside stalls near clocktower sell a lot of these traditional jewellery, so you will have to pick and choose to match urban tastes.
4. Handicrafts– A must shop in Jodhpur
If you are a connoisseur of handcrafted items, then shopping for these in Jodhpur will excite you. Metal or woodwork, fabric or leather, whatever your preference you will find loads of handicrafts. Puppets, paintings, embroidered or patchwork wall hangings, wooden elephants or metal artefacts the list is endless. Sojati Market, Tripolia Bazaar are the best places to shop for these. Do pick souvenirs for family and friends as you will find something to suit your budget. Lalji Handicrafts has a vast collection of antiques, furniture, curios and is the go-to place if you’re looking for something exquisite.
5. Block Prints
The block prints in indigo colours and natural dyes are another must-have. Aladdin pants, jackets, tunics, shirts, skirts and, trendy attire in block prints are available at reasonable rates. The shops near Jodhpur Clock Tower are where we shopped in Jodhpur for block prints.
This article was subsequently published on http://rajasthanroutestrails.blogspot.com/2020/08/5-things-to-shop-in-jodhpur-by-shameera.html
GETTING THERE:
Nearest Airport to Jodhpur:
Jodhpur has a small airport with connectivity to Mumbai, Delhi and other cities. The other alternatives are Ajmer or Udaipur. Distances: Jodhpur to Mandore 8 km.
Where to Stay in Jodhpur:
We stayed at the Taj Hari Mahal. There are several hostels and hotels which provide sweeping views of Mehrangarh Fort like Zostel. You can do a net search for an array of staying options depending on comfort and budget.
Jodhpur Travel Tip:
Do have dinner at one of the rooftop restaurants with a view of the fort. ‘The Blue City Walk’ with a guide is recommended as you may not be able to access the rooftops of the homes of the locals on your own.
Jodhpur Blue City Walk Contact:
Rajasthan Routes Trails Pvt. Ltd organised the Jodhpur Blue City walk for us.