The Beckoning Beauty of the Majestic Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur

Mehrangarh Fort
Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur, Rajasthan
Mehrangarh Fort
Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Built by Titans and coloured by the morning sun”

 The above words by Rudyard Kipling say it all for the magnanimous beauty and charm of the Meharangarh Fort of Rajasthan. Situated 400 feet above the skyline of Jodhpur, this fort assures to be a not-to-be-missed attraction of the city. The construction of the fort began under the rule of Rao Jodha, founder of Jodhpur, in 1459.

 Location: Jodhpur, Rajasthan

 Key attractions:

 There are many palaces inside the fort, each unique in its designing and architecture. Mehrangarh Fort has witnessed an era of transformation over a period of 500 years and this is all reflected through these palaces and buildings.

 Period Rooms – These royal rooms are intricately designed and speak of the artistic excellence of the ancient era.

  • Sheesh Mahal or the Hall of Mirrors
  • Phul Mahal or the Palace of Flowers
  • Takhat Vilas
  • Moti Mahal or the Palace of Pearls

 Mehrangarh Museum – You will need to spend the maximum time in the museum as each of its gallery has an impressive collection.

  • Elephant Howdah Gallery – Displays royal, elephant seats called howdahs.
  • Palanquins Gallery – You will find unique and beautifully designed palanquins or litters that were used by the royalties as a means of travel on special occasion.
  • Daulat Khana – This “wealth store” displays treasured possessions.

You can also explore:

  • Painting Gallery
  • Sileh Khana
  • Woodcraft
  • Cradles
  • Turbans

 Jaswant Thada – Built by Jaswant Singh’s maharani in memory of her husband, Jaswant Thada serves as a shrine for the Rathore Dynasty. Surrounded by cenotaphs of rulers and queens, Jaswant Thada is beautified with white stone.

 Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park – Situated at the foot of the Mehrangarh Fort, the Rao Jodha Park set up in 2006 to preserve and maintain the ecology around that area. Spread across 70 hectares is open throughout the year. An entry fee of Rs 30 and Rs 10 is charged for adults and children, respectively.

 The fort looks gorgeous at night.

 Eating options:

 Cafe Mehran – With ethnic ambiance and great food at a reasonable price, this cafe is perfect for light meals and traditional delicacies.

 Chokelao Mahal – It is a roof top restaurant, perfect for an authentic dinner.

 Quick tips:

  • Additional fee of Rs 200 and Rs 100 is charged for the entry of video and still cameras, respectively.
  • Hire a guide for deeper insight into the history, architecture and tales associated with the fort.

 Visiting Hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Entry fee:

Separate entry tickets are applicable for Mehrangarh Museum and Jaswant Thara.

  • Rs. 400 (Foreigners)
  • Rs. 300 (Foreigners – senior citizen and students)
  • Rs. 60 (Indians)
  • Rs. 30 (Indians – senior citizen and students)

 Entry is free for Jodhpur Foundation Day on 12th May.

For more related information, you may refer to the following:

About Mehrangarh Fort

About Jodhpur

Forts and palaces in Rajasthan

Jodhpur Tourist Map