Mehrangarh Fort in JodhpurA symbol of pride and royalty, it is one of the largest and most beautiful forts in India. It is one of the major attractions visited by tourists from all over the world. Rudyard Kipling rightly said that the fort is “A palace that might have been built by the Titans and colored by the morning sun”.
About Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur
Situated on a rocky cliff, this fort came into existence a year after Rao Jodha ascended the throne. This fort is built on Bhakur-Chiriya which means ‘Mountain of Birds’. The name of the fort is derived from Meher-Garh, where “Mehr” means sun and “Garh” means fort (Rathore dynasty believed in the Sun God). This fort was built by Rao Jodha around 1460 and is surrounded by strong walls which are still strong today. The struggle these walls endured during the battle is still visible in the canonical icons present here
There are many legends about the construction of Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, India. Mehrangarh Fort and Museum History says that a sadhu living on that hill got upset and cursed Rao Jodha. The curse was that the fort would have to face drought. Human sacrifices were performed by the king as a preventive measure. It is said that four people were buried alive at the four corners of the fort. Another story says that a man named Mehran was thrown alive from the hilltop and sacrificed. Want to hear more stories? Visit this magnificent fort and hear interesting stories from the local people.
Best time to visit Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur
The ideal time to view this royal splendor is during winter. During October to March, the weather is pleasant and it is the perfect time to visit this magnificent fort. If you go during this time, you can also be a part of the international festivals happening here. But before that, scroll down to read about it mehrangarh fort timings And other important details.
Mehrangarh Fort Entry Fee: INR 50 – 100
Mehrangarh Fort Restaurant Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM (Open all days)
Mehrangarh Fort Timings: 9 am to 5 pm (daily)
Festivals organized in Mehrangarh Fort of Jodhpur
Mehrangarh Fort is home to some of the most beautiful festivals celebrated in Jodhpur. Take a look at some of these and plan your trip accordingly. The festivals of Rajasthan are a class apart. Try and attend your retreat:
1. Rajasthan International Folk Festival
Rajasthan International Folk Festival takes place here in October. It is a music and arts festival celebrated to encourage the traditional folk dance, music and art of the state. It takes place on a bright full moon night in October. UNESCO also supports this wonderful initiative of promoting folk arts in Jodhpur.
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2. World Holy Spirit Festival
It takes place in February and aims to preserve and keep alive the Sufi and sacred traditions of India and the world.
Places to visit near Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur
The architecture of Mehrangarh Fort will amaze you! The sturdy brown walled exterior has extremely delicate glass work that will transport you to another era altogether.
1. Sheesh Mahal
The elaborate and attractive mirror and glass work has given Sheesh Mahal its name. The chamber is not directly open to visitors and one can see the beautifully carved interior through a small enclosure. The walls of the palace are decorated with beautiful floral motifs and paintings from Indian mythology.
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2. Phool Mahal
In that era it was a men’s private party room. The walls are decorated with paintings of the royal family. The palace is vibrant and full of colours. With gleaming ceilings, beautiful glass windows and richly carpeted rooms, every corner of the rooms reeks of royalty.
3. Jhanki Mahal
These were the quarters of the queens and princesses of Jodhpur. He used to watch the royal proceedings through the windows of this palace. This place today houses some cradles from ancient times. The terraces are intricately designed in blue motifs.
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4. Mehrangarh Fort Museum
It is a museum store in Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur where one can shop for a wide variety of products like T-shirts, postcards, music, jewellery, textiles, perfumes, hats, tote bags, books, textiles and much more. These objects represent the history and culture of Jodhpur. You can also shop for these cultural artefacts online. Be sure to include Mehrangarh Fort Museum, Jodhpur in your itinerary. a major part of Architecture of Mehrangarh Fort This is also a part of this museum.
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5. Chamunda Mataji Temple
There is also a beautiful temple in the fort premises. The idol of the goddess here was brought from Mandore by Rao Jodha in 1460 and then installed here. This temple is famous among both locals and outsiders. People from all over the country visit this temple during Dussehra festival.
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6. Choclao Mehran Terrace
There is this royal restaurant inside the fort where you can enjoy a fancy candlelight dinner. The setting is stunning with the view of the fort on one side and the dazzling city of Jodhpur on the other. Enjoy some amazing Rajasthani cuisine at this open-air restaurant with your passion.
How to reach Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur?
You can go to Jodhpur to see this magnificent fort. Jodhpur has its own domestic airport and is connected to major cities of India through flights. Jodhpur is also connected to various cities through several trains, including the luxurious ‘Palace on Wheels’. One can also take government or private buses or travel by road in rented or private cars.
After reaching Jodhpur, reaching Mehrangarh is an easy task. You can hire an auto rickshaw or take a taxi to the fort as the frequency of city buses in Jodhpur is not very high. If you are in the old city, the fort is just 2 km away and about 10 km from the city centre.
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Interesting facts about Mehrangarh Fort
Visiting the fort will definitely reveal its hidden secrets. Facts about Mehrangarh Fort, There are many stories describing the fort as being haunted or cursed, should we try planning a visit to this symbol of victory. Following are some interesting facts about Mehrangarh Fort:
- Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur was built by Rao Jodha, the founder of Jodhpur city.
- The walls of the fort are 118 feet high and 69 feet wide.
- The entire fort is distinguished by intricate Rajasthani carvings and designs.
- Two ancient temples are located inside the fort which reflect the work of thousands of artists.
- The museum inside the Mehrangarh Fort houses artefacts about the royal family as well as the Mughal dynasty.
- Traditional folk tunes performed at the entrance of the fort can be enjoyed.
- An important scene of the Batman series ‘The Dark Knight Rises’ released in 2012 has been shot at Mehrangarh Fort.
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Things to do in Mehrangarh Fort
Apart from exploring the architecture of this huge fort, there are also some other interesting attractions that attract tourists from all over the world. Here is a list of things one can see here:
- Chamunda Mataji Temple and Nagnechiji Temple located inside the fort have been attracting travelers with their fascinating stories.
- Enjoying a ziplining activity called Flying Fox.
- Explore the palaces inside Mehrangarh Fort esp. Sheesh Mahal, Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Zenana Deodi, etc.
- Enjoy the traditional folk music of Rajasthan performed by artists dressed in Rajasthani costumes.
- One can also see the Chokelao Gardens located within the fort complex.
- Every day more than 200 eagles gather around the fort. These eagles are fed by the fort management from the top of the tower across from the Chokelao Garden, making it a completely unique experience.
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Traveler Tips
No matter what season you are planning to visit Mehrangarh Fort, you should keep the following things in mind before visiting the fort:
- Remember to wear comfortable shoes while climbing the hill. Direct stairs can also be taken from the central market to the fort.
- It is advisable to wear a hat due to the heat.
- If you are planning to travel in summer then keep yourself light and hydrated.
- The fort is open from 9 am to 5 pm. Try to reach the place as early as possible to enjoy the serene beauty of this fort.
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Here’s everything you need to know before you book your trip to Jodhpur. Start planning well in advance on your holiday to Jodhpur to have a wonderful time dining at the Terrace Restaurant at Mehrangarh Fort, walking through the royal gates and exploring the stone walkways.
FAQ about
Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur
One. Mehrangarh Fort is owned by Maharaja Gaj Singhji Saheb of Marwar.
One. Rao Jodha ruled the Mehrangarh Fort in the 15th century.
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