Mehrangarh Fort

The Mehrangarh Fort is an architectural marvel that stands proudly on a 125 m long hill in the historic city of Jodhpur. This magnificent structure that was built in 1459 AD spreads over an area of around 5 km and is one of the largest forts in India. Rao Jodha, the founder of Jodhpur, started the construction of the Mehrangarh Fort but it was finally completed during the reign of Maharaja Jaswant Singh. At some point of time the fort was taken over by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb but was regained by Ajit Singh, the son of Jaswant Singh.

Like most of the large forts in Rajasthan, the Mehrangarh Fort Jodhpur also houses many palaces, temples and well-laid gardens. In fact, visitors to the Mehrangarh Fort should not miss the Moti Mahal, which is a colorful mosaic of stained glass and delicately carved stone screens. The Chandan Mahal, Rang Mahal and the Darbar Takhat are some other places you must visit. The complex is known for its massive and elegantly carved gates, which are seven in number. The fort also has a collection of palanquins, paintings and furniture that were used by the royals. One more thing you should not miss is a view of the 'blue city' of Jodhpur from the ramparts of the Mehrangarh Fort. It is a magnificent sight that is sure to leave you awe struck.

Some of the Major Attractions of the Fort include:

Sheesh Mahal

Sheesh Mahal or the Hall of Mirrors used to be the bed chamber of Maharaja Ajit Singh. It is beautifully adorned with uncountable mirrors and its main feature is its intricately designed walls. European glass chandeliers in the ceiling will leave a visitor awe-struck.

Phul Mahal

Palace of Flowers; it used to be the reception room built by Abhay Singh during 18th century. It has elaborate jaali work and fluted columns as its main feature. Paintings on the wall are very impressive. This portion of the fort is less accessible for visitors.

Takhat Vilas

This splendid looking room was the private apartment of Takhat Singh. Its ceiling stands on great wooden beams and thus, it doesn?t have any supporting columns. All parts of the room including its floor are painted. Its windows look beautiful with coloured glass panes.

Moti Mahal

Also known with the name of The Palace of Pearls, Moti Mahal got its name as it shines like a real pearl due to its lime plaster used here. As the sun rays fall on its gold filigree ceiling, vivid colours of the stained glass windows reflect on it.

The Nagnecha Mataji Temple

Rao Jodha was a worshipper of Nagnecha Mataji; he installed Her idol in this temple. The goddess, since then is also worshipped by the locals of Jodhpur alongwith the lineage. Special celebrations take place during Dussehra, when people come here to take the blessings of the goddess.

Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park

Sprawling over an area of 72 hectares, Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park contains ecologically restored desert. It was set up in 2006 to preserve the natural ecology of the area. It is an ideal escape for nature devotees seeking some moments of mental solace.

Best Time to Visit

Mid October to Mid March is the best time to visit the Mehrangarh Fort. This is also great time to do some sightseeing in Jodhpur, the Blue City.

How to Reach

By Air: Jodhpur has its own domestic airport which is just 8.5 km from the fort.

By Rail: Jodhpur railway station is well connected to all other major Indian cities.

By Road: The city has a great road network. Numerous private and state run buses link Jodhpur with other parts of the country.

Caper Travel India provides Tour Packages to Rajasthan that covers Mehrangarh Fort. For more information or to book a tour, please enter your queryin the form given below.