The “Fly Fox” in Jodhpur, also known as the Flying Fox, is a thrilling zip-line adventure that attracts visitors from all over the world. This exhilarating activity is located near the Mehrangarh Fort, one of the largest and most magnificent forts in India, offering not only an adrenaline rush but also breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings. If you’re visiting Jodhpur and are in search of a unique way to experience the city’s rich history and natural beauty, Flying Fox should definitely be on your list.
A Brief Overview of Flying Fox :–
Flying Fox is a renowned company that operates zip-line tours at some of India’s most iconic locations. In Jodhpur, their setup takes advantage of the dramatic landscape around Mehrangarh Fort. This UNESCO World Heritage site provides a stunning backdrop for the adventure. With zip-lines stretching across rugged terrain, valleys, and the fort’s outer walls, the Flying Fox tour offers an unmatched combination of thrill and scenic beauty.
The Jodhpur zip-line adventure features six distinct zip-lines, each with its unique name and character, providing a comprehensive experience for participants. The course spans 300 meters in total, and riders glide through the air at a height of about 100 meters above the ground. As you fly between the fort’s towering walls and over the glistening lakes, you gain a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful “Blue City” below.
The Experience: What to Expect :—
- Preparation and Safety Briefing: Your Flying Fox adventure begins with a detailed safety briefing. The staff ensures that you’re well-equipped with harnesses, helmets, and safety gloves. One of the things that make Flying Fox stand out is its commitment to safety, and they pride themselves on having international standards in place. The team is professional, experienced, and very focused on ensuring that participants feel secure before they take off.You’ll go through a short training session, where the guides explain how to handle the equipment, brake properly, and navigate the zip-lines. Even if you’ve never tried zip-lining before, the training is designed to make you feel comfortable. This attention to safety makes it a perfect adventure for families, couples, or solo travelers.
- Mehrangarh Fort as a Backdrop: Once you’re prepared, the adventure begins. The first zip-line, called “Chokelao Challenge,” takes you across the lush Chokelao Garden, which is filled with native flora. As you soar through the air, the enormity of the Mehrangarh Fort becomes apparent. The contrast between the ancient fort walls and the vibrant green garden below is stunning.The zip-lines offer sweeping views of the fort, one of the most well-preserved and visually striking structures in India. The fort, constructed in the 15th century by Rao Jodha, dominates the skyline of Jodhpur. Its massive walls and intricate details stand as a reminder of the city’s royal past. From the zip-line, you get to admire its architectural splendor from a completely unique perspective.
- Bird’s-Eye View of the Blue City: As you continue through the course, the zip-lines take you over Jodhpur’s famous blue-painted houses. Jodhpur is often referred to as the “Blue City” because many of its old houses are painted in shades of blue. This aerial view is both stunning and serene, giving you a glimpse of the city’s colorful culture. The blue houses are a distinctive feature of Jodhpur and symbolize the city’s heritage, with some historians suggesting that the color was originally used to signify homes belonging to Brahmins, the priestly class.Flying Fox offers the best vantage point to appreciate the spread of these vibrant homes, creating an unforgettable visual experience.
- Zip-Lining Over Lakes and Hills: One of the highlights of the Flying Fox experience in Jodhpur is the section that crosses over the Ranisar and Padamsar lakes. These lakes, set against the arid landscape, offer a refreshing view of water in the otherwise desert-like surroundings of Rajasthan. As you zip across these serene water bodies, it feels as though you’re floating, and the shimmering reflections of the fort and the surrounding cliffs add to the beauty of the scene.The “Ranisar Rollercoaster” zip-line in particular gives you the sensation of a thrilling ride as you zip over the lake with the fort towering above you. Another line, named “Rajput’s Revenge,” is one of the longer and faster sections of the course, and it takes you soaring over the rocky terrain, offering panoramic views of the arid hills surrounding Jodhpur.
- Sunset Views: For the ultimate experience, many travelers recommend booking a session close to sunset. The golden rays of the setting sun bathe the Mehrangarh Fort and the city in a warm glow, enhancing the already stunning scenery. Watching the sun set over Jodhpur as you glide through the air is a memory that will stay with you long after your trip is over.As the sky turns shades of orange, pink, and purple, you feel a deep connection with the timelessness of this ancient city. Zip-lining at sunset adds a romantic and awe-inspiring touch to the adventure, making it perfect for couples or those seeking a moment of solitude in nature.
[ Practical Information ]
- Cost: Tickets for the Flying Fox experience in Jodhpur are reasonably priced and vary depending on the time of day and season. It’s recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Timing: The zip-line adventure typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete, including the training session and safety briefing. There are multiple time slots available throughout the day.
- What to Wear: Comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes are highly recommended. Since you’ll be outdoors and on the move, it’s best to wear something that allows for ease of movement. Sunglasses and sunscreen are also useful, especially if you’re doing the activity during the day.
- Age and Fitness Requirements: The Flying Fox experience is open to people of most ages, though participants must meet basic fitness requirements. Children are welcome, but younger ones need to be accompanied by an adult. There’s no upper age limit, and you don’t need to be an athlete to enjoy it, but you should be comfortable with heights.