Its magnificent design and rich history make Mehrangarh Fort Jodhpur a popular tourist destination. Mehrangarh fort was initially erected by Rao Jodha in 1459 and is regarded as one of Rajasthan’s most fearsome and gorgeous forts. The fort is located on a 125-meter-high hill on the boundaries of Jodhpur city and spans 5 kilometers.
Perhaps one of Jodhpur’s most well-known forts, it has featured throughout several Hollywood and Bollywood films, including The Lion King, The Dark Knight Rises, and the most current Thugs of Hindustan. The fort’s entryway, perched on a hill, is magnificent, with seven gates. Victory Gate, Fateh Gate, Gopal Gate, Bhairon Gate, Dedh Kamagra Gate, Marti Gate, and ultimately Loha Gate were the names of the gates.
These structures were constructed at such multiple intervals and for a distinct goal. Although one still bears the markings of cannon rounds, another is equipped with spikes to safeguard it from elephants and animal assaults. On the other hand, the Victory Gate was created to celebrate Maharaja Man Singh’s victory well over the troops of Jaipur and Bikaner.
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Would you like to learn more regarding Mehrangarh fort or Jodhpur ka Kila, which is one of Rajasthan’s most important medieval forts? Then here’s everything that you need to know about Mehrangarh Fort, including its history, architecture, things to do, Museum, and other attractions.
Mehrangarh Durg History
When Rathore Rajput ruler Rao Jodha constructed Jodhpur as his new capital in 1459, he began construction on Mehrangarh Fort. According to legend, the fort’s beginnings were gruesome, with the deliberate live burial of such a guy named Raja Ram Meghwal. This was done to remove a curse set on the area by a monastic that Rao Jodha had compelled to depart.
Rao Jodha had the mighty female warrior sage Karni Mata of Deshnok (considered an avatar of Goddess Durga) lay the first stone and consecrate the fort to safeguard its success. This is thought to have worked since Mehrangarh Fort remains under the ruling family’s possession despite other Rajput forts being deserted.
Thanks to the several phases of development by following monarchs, the fort features strikingly diversified architecture from various periods, even up to the twentieth century. The chaotic timing of the monarchs’ defeat and victory was frequently related to these stages. They must extend and modify the fort once they regain possession of it to fulfill their demands.
Rao Jodha’s successors made significant contributions to the fort’s structure over time. They built additional palaces and temples within the fort’s walls and gates and strengthened the fort’s walls and gates. The fort got developed into what it is today throughout the reign of Jaswant Singh of Marwar in the 17th century.
The Architecture of the Mehrangarh Fort Jodhpur
Even though Rao Jodha laid the foundations in 1459, the castles were constructed over 500 years by several monarchs. Various elements of the fort symbolize different periods of history. You can see the drastic difference in design as you travel through the gates and corridors that represent a deep-rooted heritage buried beyond these walls.
During these 500 years, the fort was built in two distinct periods. Rao Maldeo (1531-1562) reigned for the first time, while Maharaja Ajit Singh reigned for the second (1707-1724).
In 1544, King Sher Shah Suri assaulted the fort and took it for a year. Whenever Rao Maldeo reclaimed the fort from him, he reinforced the ramparts and the fort’s outside so that similar an incident would never happen again.
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The Daulat Khana, Sheesh Mahal, Fateh Pol, and Loha Pol were built by Maharaja Ajit Singh (part of it). Fateh Pol was created to commemorate the 25-year guerilla fight led by Durgadas Rathore that ultimately freed the Marwar Kingdom from Aurangzeb’s control.
Phool Mahal was erected by Maharaja Abhay Singh (son of Ajit Singh). And Maharaja Man Singh, the country’s monarch after it became a princely state after signing a deal with the British, erected Jai Pole. Takhat Niwas was established in the late 19th century by Maharaja Takhat Singh.
The fort’s early foundations and facade were constructed with limited artwork, with the palace’s protection as the primary focus. However, after Raja Udai Singh, the first Marwar king to be given the title of Maharaj by the Mughals approached into a correlation to Emperor Akbar by offering her daughter’s hand to King Jahangir, the Mehrangarh Fort’s infrastructure began to represent a Mughal style of art and architectural style into the royal palace throughout the years that followed.
Mehrangarh Fort Now
A trip to Jodhpur ka Kila is perhaps one of the top incredible kinds of stuff to do in Jodhpur. The fort has a vast museum, an in-house shop, magnificent mansions, and spacious courtyards. Nearly every single day, the fort hosts traditional dance and historical acts.
Although officially, just a ticket is required to visit the museum area instead of the fort itself, security personnel are usually on patrol and do not appreciate this subtlety.
The audio guides were included in the entry price and are highly useful, pointing out minor features like the handprints inside the gate, which are Sati markings of royal widows.
The stunning 18th-century Rajput gardens are just a delightful place to spend an afternoon – the desert sun at Mehrangarh may be tiring, so bring lots of drink and look for shady corners. The Fateh Pol provides access to the old city.
Chokelao Bagh, a magnificently renovated 18th-century garden that also houses the open-air Chokelao Mahal Eatery, is yet another famous sight at the fort. You could have a spectacular candlelight supper at the eatery alongside taking in the breathtaking views of the lit fort over one side and the town beneath on another.
If you’re looking for a thrill, the fort additionally offers ziplining.
Each October, the Rajasthan International Folk Festival is held at the fort for five days. The World Sufi Spirit Festival, in February, uses the fort among its sites. Historical festivals such as Gangaur and Dussehra were also enjoyed with great grandeur and magnificence at the fort. The present Rathode clan chief, Maharaja Gaj Singh II, is the caretaker of Mehrangarh.
Another popular destination for visitors to Mehrangarh is the Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park, located near the fort.
Mehrangarh fort and Museum
The Mehrangarh fort and Museum Trust is in charge of the Museum. It is located within the fort and houses a diverse collection of palanquins, royal cradles, furniture, arms, costumes, musical instruments, antiques, paintings, and other items. The Museum’s galleries include: –
Elephants Howdah: Howdahs are elephant-riding chairs popular in the 18th and 19th centuries. This gallery’s main appeal is a silver howdah that Shah Jahan gave to Maharaja Jaswant Singh.
Daulat Khana: As the name implies, this gallery houses some of the fort’s most magnificent treasures, such as a couple from the Great Akbar.
Turban: The gallery features a variety of turbans worn in the traditional Rajasthani way of dressing oneself.
Palanquins: The gallery contains a fantastic selection of palanquins, such as Rajat Khasa (a lotus-shaped palanquin) and Pinjas (a covered palanquin), among others.
Paintings: The gallery has a superb variety of historical paintings and exhibits.
Textiles: The exhibit offers an excellent collection of carpets, canopies, tent walls, clothing, floor spreads, and other materials from various periods.
Sileh Khana: The word “Sileh” means “Weapons,” hence the gallery houses a collection of arms and ammunition utilized by the Rajputana throughout the conflict. The 7-pound sword carried by Akbar and Taimur is a gallery highlight.
Wood Craft: As the name implies, it exhibits a variety of wood-based artifacts that have been embellished with gold and ivory shine.
Cradle: The exhibition features a unique collection of cradles, including an electric cradle constructed for the current fort’s monarch.
In addition, the Mehrangarh museum offers a modest shop where tourists can purchase items.
Best Time to Visit Mehrangarh Fort Jodhpur
The winter months are the best time to explore such royal splendor, and the weather is mild from October to March, making it an ideal time to visit this majestic fort. You can also participate in the international festivals during this period if you come throughout this time. But first, learn about the Mehrangarh Fort’s hours of operation and other significant info by scrolling down.
The best things in life are seldom free, and Mehrangarh is no exception. This beauty’s tickets are available now. Jai Pol. Mehrangarh Fort Jodhpur is located near the fort’s main entrance. The Mehrangarh Fort is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day.
Mehrangarh Fort Entry Fee
- Ticket fees for foreigners are roughly 600 INR (including an excellent audio guide with headphones)
- The cost of a ticket is 100 INR for Indians. If Indians prefer an audio guide, they would have to pay 180 rupees.
Note: We strongly advise you to purchase the audio guide. Although it isn’t instrumental in other places, this would come in handy in Mehrangarh Fort and bring the scene to be alive.
Restaurant Hours at Mehrangarh Fort: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Open all days)
Mehrangarh Fort Timings (Daily): 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Attractions Near Mehrangarh Fort Jodhpur
The magnificence of the Mehrangarh Durg Jodhpur will wow! The mighty brown exterior walls are complemented by highly intricate glasswork inside, which takes you to a different period.
Sheesh Mahal
Sheesh, Mahal gets its name from the ornate and enticing mirror and glass craftsmanship. Visitors may only glimpse the wonderfully sculpted interiors through such a small fence because the chamber is not available to the public. Gorgeous floral themes and artwork from Indian mythology cover the walls of a castle.
Phool Mahal
Throughout that time, this was the men’s exclusive party room. The imperial family’s artworks cover the walls. The palace has a lot of color and vibrancy. The sparkling ceilings, exquisite glasswork windows, and lavishly furnished rooms exude elegance in every single corner.
Jhanki Mahal
These are all the royal bedrooms of Jodhpur’s queens and princesses. Through the windows of Grand Palace Mahal, they often used to observe the regal activities. Several historic cradles can still be found in the area nowadays. The ceilings were ornately decorated with blue designs.
Chamunda Mataji Temple
The fort also boasts a lovely temple on its grounds. Rao Jodha carried the goddess’s idol here through Mandore in 1460, and it was then dedicated. Locals and visitors alike are familiar with the temple. During the Dussehra festival, individuals come from across the nation to visit this shrine.
Mehran Chokelao Terrace
This regal restaurant is located within the fort and offers romantic candlelight dining. With the fort along one end and the sparkling town of Jodhpur on another, the scene is breathtaking. Enjoy the delicious Rajasthani cuisine at such an open-air eatery with your promise and over-deliver.
Ziplining
If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, explore riding a zipline to the fort. Yes, it’s a crazy option to explore Jodhpur, yet Flying Fox’s one-and-a-half-hour zipline excursion provides you with a one-of-a-kind adventure. Even when you’re frightened of heights, you must think about doing this and crossing it off your wishlist because several individuals say it’s among the most memorable events they’ve had on their trip. Flying Fox assures an ethical and secure approach as well as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Umaid Bhawan Palace
The Chittar Palace, also known as Umaid Bhavan Palace, is a beautiful building complex built from stones hauled in from the surrounding Chittar Hills. Maharaja Umaid Singh constructed this palace in 1929, and it lasted over 15 years to complete. Taj Hotels now occupies a portion of the castle. So, if you’re a fan of historic hotels, that’s the spot for you.
Lake Kaylana
Do you have a strong desire for a piece of nature? Then, head 8 kilometers away to Kaylana Lake for a break from the hustle and bustle of Jodhpur. Maharana Pratap Singh established this man-made lake. It’s a lovely spot to unwind and ponder, and its size makes it even more so. However, this location used to be home to palaces and gardens, and they did fall after the lake was built.
Udai Mandir
Udai Mandir, which is sustained by more than 100 pillars, is yet another sight to see during a visit to Jodhpur. This Hindu temple is built of sandstone and sits on an elevated platform. Furthermore, a covering covers the Garbha Griha inside this temple, surrounded by gold pots. Moreover, the temple is constructed in the most aesthetically pleasing manner possible, highlighting the skills of Indian artisans.
Cafes and Restaurants Inside Mehrangarh Durg
Cafe Mehran
Cafe Mehran, the museum cafe, is designed to mimic the atmosphere and age of the Mehrangarh Fort. That cafe, located inside the interior courtyard, serves small snacks and meals. Given that you will be dining within a fort that is almost 500 years old, the costs were reasonable.
Cafe Mehran Timings: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (All Days)
Palki Cafe
Palki Cafe is a tiny cafe located along the path that connects Jai Pol and Dedh Kangra Pol. The sitting would be in an outdoor space, like a cozy small family gathering next to the fort’s high walls. It’s a self-service cafeteria where you can pay prior you eat.
Palki Cafe Timings: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (All Days)
Vaara Cafe
This is a new addition located near Zenana Gate, the Museum’s exit gate. Just after the Museum’s audio guide, visitors could relax in their cafe area and have a pleasant non-alcoholic beverage.
Vaara Cafe Timings: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (All Days)
Chokelao Mahal Terrace Restaurant
Traditional Rajasthani cuisine is served in this opulent restaurant inside the fort walls. Visitors could dine, enjoying taking in the nighttime vista of Mehrangarh Fort and the city skyline. The entryway to the fort has a transport service for visitors.
Chokelao Mahal Terrace Restaurant Timings: 7 p.m. until 10:30 p.m.
Gifts and Souvenirs Store
The museum store at Mehrangarh is India’s only specialized. This shop is a full member of the Museum Store Association of the United States. Every product sold here helps preserve and restore Mehrangarh and Nagaur’s forts.
This store is located near the Museum’s exit. So, after you’ve finished your journey, you could go out there to look at the exhibits. T-shirts, caps, bags, books, jewels, postcards, and novels are among the items available.
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Mehrangarh Fort’s Fascinating Facts
You will undoubtedly learn about the hidden Mehrangarh Fort facts when you explore the fort. Many stories claim that the defense is haunted or cursed, which can be seen by organizing a visit to this symbol of victory. Several fascinating facts concerning Mehrangarh Fort were just as follows:
- Jodhpur ka Kila was constructed by Rao Jodha, the city’s founder.
- The fort’s walls were 118 feet high and 69 feet wide.
- With beautiful Rajasthani sculptures and architecture, the complete fort does have a distinct identity.
- Within the fort, two historic temples house the handiwork of tens of thousands of artists.
- The Mehrangarh Fort’s museum houses relics from the Royal family and the Mughal Dynasty.
- Traditional folk tunes are played near the fort’s entryway, which visitors can enjoy.
- An essential sequence from the Batman series ‘The Dark Knight Rises,’ published in 2012, was shot just at Mehrangarh Fort.
How To Reach Mehrangarh Fort Jodhpur
You could visit this majestic fort by flying to Jodhpur. Jodhpur does have its domestic airport and is well-connected by air to India’s large cities. Jodhpur is also linked to various places via train, such as the magnificent ‘Palace on Wheels.’ You could also commute by bus (governmental or private), or by road (hired or private car).
It’s simple to get to Mehrangarh from Jodhpur. Because city buses are infrequent in Jodhpur, you could rent auto-rickshaws or hire a taxi to the fort. The fort is only 2 kilometers from the ancient town and about 10 kilometers from downtown.
Travel Advice
- It requires about 4 hours to tour the fort properly.
- Outside food is not permitted; however, it must be left at the entrance.
- The elevators will only get you close to the Museum’s entryway, and it would be best if you descended on your own.
- Explore the area with a guide beside the ticket office; you could also choose an audio tour, which is accessible in various languages.
- You’ll be walking a lot, so dress appropriately.
- Consider the “Flying Fox” zipline trip at Mehrangarh Fort if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush.
- Inside the fort, smoking is prohibited. Arms, ammunition, chewing gums, cigarettes, whiskey, knives, and wire, among other things, are outlawed.
- To avoid being a public nuisance, you must turn off your phone while exploring the Museum.
- If you have a lot of luggage or a heavy rucksack, it may take longer to get through security.
- These structures restore the magnificence of a bygone age, and it is our responsibility to maintain them. Thus, we must refrain from scribbling on the walls.
- Visitors are recommended to engage only authorized tour guides and photographers who can show their identification cards.
- Respect the state’s customs and take part in the fort’s regular cleanup push by only putting trash in the trashcan.
