Jodhpur Handicraft & Textile Shopping Tour with Local Markets

Summary

Explore Jodhpur’s Artisan Workshops and Bustling Bazaars

You’ll dive into Jodhpur’s real craft scene—watching carpets woven by hand in Salawas, exploring colorful textile warehouses, meeting wood and stone artisans in Basni, then getting lost (in a good way) among local markets near the Clock Tower. Perfect if you want more than just souvenirs—you’ll see how everything’s made and meet the people behind it all.

What’s the experience like?

The morning air in Jodhpur always feels a bit dry, with that hint of spice drifting from roadside chai stalls. Our driver picked us up right on time, and we set off for Salawas—about half an hour outside the city. At Durry Udhyog, the carpet workshop, you can actually watch the weavers at work. Their hands move so fast over the loom, it’s almost hypnotic. I tried knotting a small section myself—let’s just say it looked nothing like theirs. The owner explained how each pattern tells a story from this region. You’ll hear the soft thud of looms and catch a faint scent of wool in the air.

Next stop was a textile warehouse tucked away behind a faded blue gate. Inside, piles of tie-dye fabrics and block-printed cloths fill every corner. One artisan showed me how they press wooden blocks into fabric to make those bright patterns you see everywhere here—takes real skill to get it right. There were stacks of bed covers, pillowcases, even huge tents made for festivals. If you’re into textiles or just love colors, this place is heaven.

We headed over to Basni industrial area next—a bit more hectic with trucks rumbling by and workers hauling wood planks. Here you’ll find workshops making everything from carved wooden boxes to stone elephants. I chatted with one craftsman who’d been carving since he was a kid; his hands were stained from years of work but he smiled as he showed off his latest piece.

Back in the city center, we wandered through the market at the foot of the Clock Tower. It’s noisy but friendly—vendors calling out prices, women bargaining over spices or bangles. The smell of fresh samosas mixes with incense from nearby stalls. Just outside the main square is where you’ll find rows of clothing shops selling sarees and bandhani scarves in every shade imaginable. I picked up a tie-dye scarf for my sister; couldn’t resist.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Jodhpur Shopping and Handicrafts Tour

• Visit carpet making workshop in Salawas
• Explore textile and fabric warehouse with handmade fabrics
• Visit handicraft factories in Basni industrial area
• Shop at local market near Clock Tower
• Visit clothing market outside Clock Tower

Top questions

Is there time to shop at each stop?

Yes, there’s enough time at each location to browse and buy if something catches your eye.

Can I try making something myself?

You can try your hand at weaving or block printing under guidance at some workshops—it’s fun but trickier than it looks!

Are these places touristy or more local?

The workshops are mostly local-run; markets near the Clock Tower are popular but still feel authentic.

What should I wear?

Comfortable clothes and shoes are best—it can get warm and there’s some walking involved.

What’s included

Your ride is sorted—a private air-conditioned vehicle takes you everywhere on this tour. All entry fees are covered too. Just bring your curiosity (and maybe some extra room in your bag for finds!).