Mehrangarh Fort of Jodhpur is one of the largest forts of Rajasthan. Foundation stone was laid by Rao Jodha in 1459. Inside this fort several palaces are situated. This fort is having 7 gates. One of the gates is Jayapol which means Victory. This was built by Maharaja Man Singh to celebrate the victory over Bikaner and Jaipur armies. Fattehpol gate was constructed by Maharaja which states the victory over Mughals.
What to see in Mehrangarh Fort:
Moti Mahal: It is the largest museum’s period room which was built by Raja Sur Singh between 1595 to 1619. It has 5 alcoves leading to hidden balconies. It is believed that these are built to listen the court proceeding by 5 queens.
Phool Mahal: It is also known as Palace of Flowers. This is private chamber for pleasure. European influence can be seen on the wall paintings of this mahal. It was constructed between 1724 to 1750 by Maharaja Abhay Singh.
Sheesh Mahal: This is also known as Hall of Mirrors. It consists of mirror work having large pieces and regular pieces rather than tiny fragments. This mahal look like a temple.
Takhat Vilas: On the walls and ceilings visitors can see episodes of Krishna Leela and Dhola Maru. This was built by Maharaja Takhat Singh who was the last ruler of Jodhpur. Glass balls on the ceiling look so beautiful.
Mehragarh Museum: Museum consists of several galleries such as Folk Music Instruments Gallery, Turban Gallery, Paintings gallery, Armoury Gallery, Daulat Khana – Treasures of Mehrangarh Museum, Palanquins, and Elephant’s Howdahs.
Chamuda Mataji Temple: Rao Jodha built this temple. He bought the idol from old capital of Mandore in 1460. She remains Royal Families Isht Devi. During the Dussehra festival rush to this temple is more.
What to see around Mehrangarh Fort:
Mahamandir temple: Temple is famous for 84 pillars. Work on the stones of the temple looks so beautiful. This temple was built in 1812. It is located 11kms away from the fort.
Umaid Bhawan Palace: Palace was designed by Henry Vaughan Lancaster. Taj Hotels are managing this Palace. Umaid Bhawan Palace Attractions are Umaid Bhawan’s Zodiac Club, The Museum, and Umaid Bhawan Palace Hotel. Art Deco style can be seen in the inner part of the Palace. Yellow Sandstone is used in the construction of this Palace. It is located 6kms away from the fort.
Umaid Bhawan Museum: This consists of Chinese Vases, period furniture, artefacts, antique clocks and arms. Other attraction of this museum is collection of stuffed leopard. This is the huge banner presented by Queen Victoria. It is located 6kms away from the fort.
Jaswant Thada: This belongs to 19th century royal cenotaph. It was built in Commemoration of Maharaja Jaswant Singh in white Marble. It is located just 1km away from the fort.
Getting to Mehrangarh Fort: As Mehrangarh Fort is located in Jodhpur, visitors have to reach Jodhpur to visit this place. Jodhpur is well connected with road, railways and airways. From Jaipur, Delhi, Ajmer, Ahmedabad, Agra, Udaipur, Jaisalmer buses come to this place. From Ahmedabad, Delhi, Bikaner, Ajmer, Udaipur, Jaisalmer etc trains come to Jodhpur. From Mumbai, Delhi, Udaipur, Jaipur flights come to this place. Jodhpur airport is located 5kms away from the city.
Getting around Mehrangarh Fort: Best way to explore this Mehrangarh Fort is on foot. Buses, Taxis and Private vehicles are used to visit the surrounding places of Mehrangarh Fort.
Best time to visit Mehrangarh Fort: Best time to visit this place is between October to March.
Where to stay in Mehrangarh Fort: Accommodations are not available inside Mehrangarh Fort. Plenty of budget, midrange and luxury hotels are available in Jodhpur.
Where to eat in Mehrangarh Fort: Inside the fort Cafe Mehran is located. This offers traditional and western cuisines with light meals at affordable rates.