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A trip to Jodhpur would be incomplete without a visit to royal forts of the city. Mehrangarh Fort is one such stunning structure that is worth a visit on your trip to Jodhpur. Let's take a virtual tour to Mehrangarh Fort, one of the ravishingly beautiful forts in Rajasthan.
Like several other forts in Rajasthan, the Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur is a specimen of the royal life led by the Rajpur rulers. The Rajput ruler Maharaja Rao Jodha Singh found it insecure to live in the 1000 year old Mandore Fort which was located in Marwar, close to Jodhpur.
The majestic Mehrangarh Fort
Photo Courtesy: Milo & Silvia in the world
The King moved his capital to Jodhpur, which was believed to be a safer place than Marwar. In 1459, he laid the foundation of the impeccable structure of Mehrangarh Fort.
The carvings at the fort
Photo Courtesy: Manuel Menal
The huge fort complex was built on a hill which was known has Bhaucheeria, the mountain of birds. It is believed that the only person who lived on the hill, Cheeria Nathji, the Lord of birds, was asked to leave from there, upon which he cursed the land of Jodhpur that he city will always suffer from scarcity of water. Though the King built a temple and a house for the monk near the fort, the city of Jodhpur faces drought every few years.
Coloured glass in one of the palace rooms
Photo Courtesy: Varun Shiv Kapur
The huge fort complex of Mehrangarh stands tall 400 ft above Jodhpur city. Surrounded by several palatial structures and courtyards that flaunt Rajputana style of architecture.
The vibrant interiors of the palace
Photo Courtesy: Manuel Menal
There are 7 gates to the fort, of which 4 were built to celebrate the victories of the rulers. These 4 gates are Jai Pol, Fateh Pol, Dedh Kamgra Pol and Loha Pol which are of historical importance. The palaces inside the fort include Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), Sheesha Mahal ( Mirror Palace), Phool Mahal (Flower Palace), Sileh Khana and Daulat Khana.
The beautiful red curtains
Photo Courtesy: Travelling Slacker
The Mehrangarh museum is one worth visiting too. It has a lot of antiques from Rajasthani history and culture. The costumes and furniture used by the royalties of Rajasthan, musical instruments, paintings, armoury, royal cradles, palanquins, miniatures and howdahs are some of the exquisite collection displayed in the museum.
Splash of colours inside the palace
Photo Courtesy: Tom Bishop
How to Reach Mehrangarh Fort
The fort is just 15 minutes away from Raika Bagh Railway station in Jodhpur, which can be travelled by auto or cabs. Here's how you can reach Jodhpur.
A wall painting at Mehrangarh Fort
Photo Courtesy: Charlie Phillips
Opening Hours: 9am-5pm on all days
Here are some points you may note:
- Camera is allowed inside.
- There is an entry fee and extra fee for still camera and video camera as well.
- Elevators are available to take tourists to the top of the hill, at nominal rates.
- Audio tour available
On your next visit to Rajasthan, enjoy a royal tour to the city of Jodhpur and do visit this architectural wonder of palaces!
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