Mehrangarh Fort

The Pride of Jodhpur

An Overview

Standing gracefully in the city of Jodhpur, Mehrangarh fort is among the largest forts in India.

Perched on a 150 metre high hill, it is famous for its majestic constructions, exquisitely crafted and decorated palaces. The huge structures, complex design and well fortification make it an important fort of Rajasthan which is visited by numerous tourists during their Jodhpur Tour.

History

This magnificent fort was constructed by Rao Jodha in the year 1459. It was built to give a safer place to the king Jodha. Afterwards, more additions were made by different rulers of Jodhpur. The current fort is the result of the efforts made by many other rulers of Jodhpur.

About the Fort

Located at the center of the city, this magnificent fort is spread over an area of 5 kilometers. To access the fort, there are seven gates. They still bear the marks of the different battles fought in the past. Its second gate still stands witnessing the canon ball hits by attacking armies during wars. One of its other gates is Jaypol which means victory. It was constructed by Maharaja Man Singh to celebrate his victories over Bikaner and Jaipur armies. Another gate Fattehpol, which too means victory, was constructed by Maharaja Ajit Singh as a celebration to defeat the Mughals.

Inside the Fort

There are several beautiful palaces inside the fort. It also houses many temples out of which the most famous is the Chamunda Mataji Temple. The fort also houses many period rooms. They are Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal and Takhat Vilas. All of them hold some or the other significance.

Attractions of the Fort

The fort is known for many attractions, which include:

Moti Mahal

Known as the Pearl Palace, this was built during reign of King Sur Singh. It served as a Public Audience Hall where king used to meet his subjects. The palace is famed for its exquisitely carved latticed screens. It has five alcoves leading on to secret balconies constructed for queens to listen court proceeding.

Sheesh Mahal

It is known for its exquisite mirror work with an intricate mosaic of small fragments. Its beautifully painted religious statues over the mirror work also makes it more appealing.

Phool Mahal

It is the most outstanding palace of the fort that was made for enjoying pleasure. This private chamber of pleasure was constructed by Maharaja Abhaya Singh. In it, Maharajas used to see young women performing dance under a ceiling of gold filigree.

Takhat Vilas

Built by Maharaja Takhat Singh, it served as his dwelling during the time of his reign. It is a charismatic fusion of styles both modern as well as traditional. The fascinating paintings on the walls on the wooden beams of ceilings and several scenes form the religious Krishna Leela are still in good condition.

Jhanki Mahal

It houses a beautiful collection of the royal cradles, adorned with gilt mirrors and figures of fairies, birds and elephant. From here, the royal ladies used to watch the official proceedings of the court.

Mehrangarh Fort Museum

It is among the finest museums in Rajasthan. It houses a palanquin section where tourists can see a rich collection of old royal palanquins. The palanquin section also encompasses the elaborate domed gilt Mahadol palanquin, which was won in a battle from the Governor of Gujarat in 1730. Here you can see the heritage of the Rathores, including costumes, arms, paintings and decorated period rooms.