Mehrangarh Fort is one of the largest and most magnificent forts in India, located in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. It was built by Rao Jodha, the founder of Jodhpur, in 1459, and expanded by his successors over the centuries. The fort stands on a rocky hill, about 122 meters above the city, and covers an area of 1,200 acres. It is a masterpiece of architecture and engineering, with several palaces, temples, courtyards, galleries, and museums within its walls.
Mehrangarh Fort is also a witness to the history and culture of Marwar, the region of western Rajasthan that was ruled by the Rathore clan of Rajputs. The fort is a popular tourist attraction, and offers a spectacular view of the blue city of Jodhpur. Visit during Jodhpur Local sightseeing by cab
Location of Mehrangarh Fort
Mehrangarh Fort is located in Jodhpur, the second-largest city in Rajasthan. Jodhpur is well-connected by road, rail, and air to other major cities in India. The nearest airport is Jodhpur Airport, which is about 5 km from the fort. The nearest railway station is Jodhpur Junction, which is about 6 km from the fort. The fort can be reached by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or bus from the airport or railway station. The fort is also accessible by car from other nearby cities such as Jaipur (337 km), Udaipur (259 km), Jaisalmer (285 km), and Bikaner (251 km).
Opening Timing/ Entry Fees Mehrangarh Fort
Mehrangarh Fort is open to visitors every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The entry fee for Indian visitors is Rs. 100 per person, and for foreign visitors is Rs. 600 per person. The entry fee includes access to the fort complex and the museum. There is an additional charge of Rs. 100 for still camera and Rs. 200 for video camera. There is also an audio guide facility available for Rs. 150 per person in English and Hindi languages.
Things to Do /Must See in Mehrangarh Fort
Mehrangarh Fort has many things to offer to its visitors, such as:
- Exploring the fort complex: The fort complex consists of several gates, bastions, walls, and ramparts that showcase the defensive and aesthetic features of the fort. Some of the notable gates are Jai Pol (Victory Gate), Fateh Pol (Victory Gate), Loha Pol (Iron Gate), Suraj Pol (Sun Gate), and Daulat Pol (Wealth Gate). The walls are adorned with cannonballs marks and chhatris (domed pavilions) of fallen warriors.
- Visiting the palaces: The fort has several palaces that display the royal splendor and elegance of the Rathore rulers. Some of the prominent palaces are Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), Phool Mahal (Flower Palace), Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), Jhanki Mahal (Peeping Palace), Takhat Vilas (Throne Room), and Zenana Deodi (Women’s Quarters). The palaces are decorated with intricate carvings, paintings, mirrors, stained glass windows, and furniture.
- Visiting the temples: The fort has several temples that reflect the religious devotion and diversity of the Rathore rulers. Some of the important temples are Chamunda Mataji Temple, Nagnechiji Temple, Ganesh Temple, and Shiva Temple. The temples are dedicated to various Hindu deities and have beautiful idols and sculptures.
- Visiting the museum: The fort has a museum that houses a rich collection of artifacts and relics related to the history and culture of Marwar. The museum has various galleries that display weapons, armors, paintings, textiles, palanquins, howdahs, cradles, turbans, and musical instruments. The museum also has a souvenir shop where visitors can buy books, postcards, jewelry, and handicrafts.
- Enjoying the view: The fort offers a stunning view of the blue city of Jodhpur, which gets its name from the indigo-colored houses that surround the fort. The view is especially mesmerizing at sunrise and sunset, when the sky and the city are painted in different hues. The view also includes the Jaswant Thada, a white marble cenotaph of the Rathore rulers, and the Umaid Bhawan Palace, a grand palace that is partly a hotel and partly a museum.
Significance of Mehrangarh Fort
Mehrangarh Fort is a significant monument that represents the glory and pride of the Rathore clan of Rajputs, who ruled over Marwar for more than five centuries. The fort is a testimony to their bravery, valor, and resilience, as they faced and fought against various enemies, such as the Mughals, the Marathas, the British, and other Rajput states.
The fort is also a symbol of their culture, art, and architecture, as they built and embellished the fort with various styles and influences. The fort is also a source of inspiration and attraction for many artists, writers, filmmakers, and musicians, who have visited and depicted the fort in their works. The fort has also hosted various cultural events and festivals, such as the World Sacred Spirit Festival and the Rajasthan International Folk Festival, that showcase the rich and diverse heritage of Rajasthan.
FAQ’s
Q: How long does it take to visit Mehrangarh Fort?
A: It takes about 2 to 3 hours to visit Mehrangarh Fort, depending on your interest and pace.
Q: Is there any dress code or restriction for visiting Mehrangarh Fort?
A: There is no specific dress code or restriction for visiting Mehrangarh Fort, but visitors are advised to dress modestly and respectfully, as it is a historical and religious site. Visitors are also advised to wear comfortable shoes, as there are many stairs and slopes in the fort.
Q: Is there any facility for food and water in Mehrangarh Fort?
A: There is a cafeteria in the fort complex that serves snacks and beverages. There are also water coolers and drinking water taps available in the fort. Visitors can also bring their own food and water, but they are not allowed to litter or eat inside the palaces or temples.
Q: Is there any facility for parking in Mehrangarh Fort?
A: There is a parking lot near the entrance of the fort, where visitors can park their vehicles for a nominal fee. The parking lot is managed by the fort authorities and has security guards.
Q: Is there any facility for disabled or elderly visitors in Mehrangarh Fort?
A: There is a lift facility available in the fort for disabled or elderly visitors, which can take them to the main courtyard of the fort. From there, they can access some of the palaces and temples by wheelchair or walker. However, some parts of the fort are not accessible by lift or wheelchair, due to the uneven terrain and narrow passages.
Conclusion
Mehrangarh Fort is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the beauty and history of Rajasthan. It is a place where you can witness the grandeur and grace of the Rathore rulers, who built and ruled over this magnificent fort for centuries. It is a place where you can admire the craftsmanship and creativity of the artisans, who carved and painted this splendid fort with various styles and influences.
It is a place where you can enjoy the scenic and serene view of the blue city of Jodhpur, which surrounds this majestic fort with its charm and character. It is a place where you can feel the spirit and soul of Marwar, which lives on in this glorious fort.
