Mehrangarh Fort In Jodhpur: A Journey Through History And Culture
Your Rajasthan tour cannot be completed without visiting Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur. It is beautiful and one of the best-preserved forts in India. Every king who ruled Jodhpur helped build and improve this fort.
It has thick walls all around it, that are still strong today. If you look closely at the walls, you can see marks from cannons. These marks are from old battles in which the fort survived.
From learning the interesting history behind its construction, and admiring its architecture, and palaces to relaxing in the gardens, enjoying cultural performances, and tasting delicacies, the fort offers it all. Also, from different spots in the fort, you can see the best views of Jodhpur – the blue city!
Mehrangarh Fort In Jodhpur History
In 1459, Rao Jodha initiated the construction of Mehrangarh Fort. He selected a hill, known as Bhakurcheeria (“mountain of birds”), as the site for his new capital, and decided to relocate from Mandore Fort.
According to local lore, a hermit named Cheeria Nathji used to live on this hill. Rao Jodha requested Karni Mata, a saint, to ask Cheeria Nathji to vacate the premises. Upon Karni Mata’s request, Cheeria Nathji left the place but cursed that the kingdom would never flourish.
Followed by Cheeria Nathji’s exit, Karni Mata laid the foundation stone of Mehrangarh Fort.
Legend also says that Rao Jodha buried a man named Raja Ram Meghwal to weaken the curse on the fort. Back then, people thought this would bring good luck. Raja Ram Meghwal voluntarily agreed to do this and Rao Jodha promised to take care of his family.
About 100 years later, another ruler named Rao Maldeo made the fort stronger by improving its gates and walls. After this, the fort changed hands between the Rathores and the Mughals for several years.
In the 18th century, Maharaja Ajit Singh took control of the fort and restored it. He built new rooms in the fort and added a special gate called Fateh Pol to celebrate victory.
In the 20th century, the royal family moved to a new, and modern palace called Umaid Bhawan. After that, Mehrangarh Fort was mostly empty for a long time.
Today, Maharaja Gaj Singh II is in charge of the fort. He turned it into a museum and opened it for visitors to explore and learn about its history.
Suggested Read: Best Places to Visit in Jodhpur: Top Attractions
Mehrangarh Fort Architecture
The architecture of Mehrangarh Fort is a blend of different styles. Some parts look like old Rajput buildings, while others remind you of Mughal palaces and other styles. This is because many rulers owned the fort over time. Each ruler added new parts or changed things to make the fort work better for them.
Mehrangarh Fort: Palaces And Galleries You Need To Explore!
Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur covers an area of 5 square kilometres. To see everything, you will need about 3-4 hours. Inside the fort, you can find a museum, palaces, and more! Some of the important palaces and galleries are:
Palaces:
- Phool Mahal
- Sheesh Mahal
- Jhanki Mahal
- Dipak Mahal
- Moti Mahal
- Takhat Vilas
- Sardar Vilas
Museum Galleries:
- Howdah Gallery
- Palanquin Gallery
- Daulat Khana Gallery
- Textile Gallery
- Arms Gallery
- Painting Gallery
Other Interesting Things To Do At Mehrangarh Fort In Jodhpur
- Watch Shows: You can see folk music, dance, and puppet shows at the fort entrance. The fort also hosts big festivals with performers from India and other countries.
- Visit Temples: There are two old temples in the fort. One is for Goddess Durga, and the other is the royal family’s private temple.
- Explore The Gates: The fort has seven special gates. Each one tells a story. Some have marks from old battles, and others have handprints with interesting histories.
- Watch The sunset: From the top of the fort, you can see the whole city and enjoy a beautiful sunset view.
- Relax In Gardens: The fort has pretty gardens where you can rest and enjoy nature.
- Mehrangarh Fort In Jodhpur Food: You can enjoy Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur food at one of several restaurants. Some offer fancy dining with city views, while others are cafes with plentiful food options.
- Buy Souvenirs: The museum shop sells special items like jewellery, clothes, perfumes, and other things to remember your visit.
Suggested Read: 8 Best Places to Eat in Jodhpur: A Culinary Guide
Best Time To Visit Mehrangarh Fort In Jodhpur
The best time to visit Mehrangarh Fort is during winter, from November to February. The weather is nice and cool making it easier to explore the fort.
How To Reach Mehrangarh Fort In Jodhpur
Mehrangarh Fort is just 10km from the city centre. The distance from the fort to the old town is 2 km. The fort is easily accessible from Jodhpur railway station which is 5 km away. Bus stand and Jodhpur airport are at a distance of 4 km and 10 km respectively from the fort.
Mehrangarh Fort Timings
Mehrangarh Fort is open every day of the year.
Regular Timings: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Special Guided Tours At Night: 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. and from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
On May 12th, which is Jodhpur Foundation Day, you can enter the fort for free.
Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur Entry Fee
For Indian Visitors:
- Regular ticket: Rs. 100/-
- Seniors, students, and paramilitary officials: Rs. 50/-
- Audio guide: Rs. 180/- extra
- Camera fees: Rs. 100/- for still camera, Rs. 200/- for video camera
For Foreign Visitors:
- Regular ticket (includes audio guide): Rs. 600/-
- Students: Rs. 400/-
For A Guided Tour:
- Costs between Rs. 300/- and Rs. 600/- depending on how many people are in your group.
Top 5 Tourist Places Near Mehrangarh Fort In Jodhpur
The best places to visit near Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur include
- Toorji Ka Jhalra Bavdi
- Ghanta Ghar Jodhpur
- Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park
- Jaswant Thada
- Masuriya Hill Garden
Suggested Read: 8 Best Shopping Places in Jodhpur
Popular Hotels Near Mehrangarh Fort
The top hotels near Mehrangarh Fort are:
- RAAS Jodhpur
- Raj Mandir Boutique Home Stay
- Haveli Inn Pal
- Amritara Manak Haveli
- Heritage Kuchaman
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I reach Mehrangarh Fort?
Mehrangarh Fort is easily accessible from the bus stand, Jodhpur railway station, and the airport, as the fort is just 10km away from the city centre.
What is the entry fee for Mehrangarh Fort?
The cost of the regular ticket is Rs. 100/-. For senior citizens, students, and paramilitary officials it is Rs. 50/-. And for foreign visitors, it costs Rs. 600/-
What are the opening hours of Mehrangarh Fort?
The opening hours of Mehrangarh Fort are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.