Mehrangarh Fort: The Foundation of Jodhpur

• November 8, 2024November 9, 2024
• Aadil Khan

Contact

Website: https://www.mehrangarh.org

Address: Mehrangarh Fort, Sodagaran Mohalla, Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342001

Phone No.: 0291-2548790; 0291-2541447

Fax: 0291-2548992

Email: [email protected]

Pricing

Entry Ticket

Vehicle Parking

Camera Permission

Guides

Note: The Audio Guide for international tourists is included in their entry tickets.

Miscellaneous

Note: The ticket sales close at 5:00 PM. Additionally, on 12th May, Jodhpur Foundation Day, entry for all guests is free, and only an elevator fee is applicable.

Timings

The Fort opens daily at 9:00 AM and closes at 5:00 PM. Make sure you plan your visit between these hours.

If you have ever thought about visiting Jodhpur or even visited Jodhpur virtually, you would have surely considered Mehrangarh Fort. Mehrangarh is a historic fort of the former Rathore rulers. The fort features seven gates, namely:

1. Jai Pol

This main entrance of the fort was built to celebrate the win of Maharaja Man Singh over Maharaja Jagat Singh in 1808.

1. Fateh Pol

Ajit Singh built the Victory Gate in remembrance of the taking back the fort from the Mughals in 1707.

1. Gopal Pol

The Gopal Pol was constructed to protect the fort against enemy attacks.

1. Lakhna Pol or Dedh Kangra Pol

Maharaja Maldeo constructed the Lakhna Pol in 1807 which was later destroyed in a battle.

1. Amruti Pol

The Amriti Pol leads to the original entrance of the fort which was originally constructed by Rao Jodha.

1. Loha Pol

Loha Pol was built in the 15th century, but its facade was constructed later by Maharaja Maldeo in the 16th century. It consists of handprints of 15 queens who performed sati.

1. Suraj Pol

Suraj Pol is one of the oldest gates of the fort, consisting of an entrance which leads to Moti Mahal.

The Story

The foundation of Mehrangarh is closely associated with Rao Jodha’s founding of Jodhpur. Previously situated in Mandore, the thousand-year-old fortress was no longer secure for the king. Jodha decided to shift the capital to Jodhpur and constructed the Mehrangarh Fort for the same purpose. Both the capital and fort were founded in 1459; however, most of the existing structures were built in the 17th century by Rao’s successors. The foundation dates back to 12th May 1459, with major changes blended in by Maharaja Jaswant Singh from 1638 to 1678.

What to Explore?

The Mehrangarh Fort is situated on top of a 400-foot-high mountain, and the complete area spans 486 hectares, containing multiple beautiful attractions.

• Sheesh Mahal: Literally and practically translated to the “Hall of Mirrors,” Sheesh Mahal consists of numerous mirrors and glasswork adorned with enchanting patterns that reflect the traditional artistry of the people back in the past.

• Phool Mahal: Much like the previous point, this also translates to its literal meaning, i.e., “Hall of Flowers.” Built as a royal entertainment chamber, the hall features various floral beauties.

• Museum: The fort is known for its one-of-a-kind museum that includes multiple galleries, namely Elephant’s howdahs, Palanquins, Daulat Khana, Armoury, Paintings, The Turban Gallery, and Shahi Lal Dera. The museum shows off rich ancient artefacts representing ancient valour, treasures, ammunition, clothing, and art.

• Chokelao Bagh Garden: A beautiful garden with a terrace restaurant accompanies the already beautiful Mehrangarh Fort.

• Panoramic Views of Jodhpur: Witness the whole of Jodhpur from the height at which Mehrangarh is situated. Gives the perfect chance for photography to related enthusiasts.

Reaching the Fort

Whether you’re a tourist or a local, choosing Rajwada Cabs would be the best decision for Jodhpur taxi service to Mehrangarh. It also provides you with a tempo traveller in Jodhpur for travels that are accompanied by a large number of passengers. In such cases, you don’t want to suffer from uncomfortability and expense. Hire Rajwada Cabs for a comfortable and affordable ride to the Fort.

Conclusion

The beautiful Mehrangarh Fort is among Jodhpur’s most well-liked attractions. The 15th-century fort, which offers amazing city views and is a brilliant example of Rajasthani architecture, was built. Make sure you visit Mehrangarh periodically if you live in Jodhpur, and it is a must-visit place if you’re planning a trip.