Mehrangarh Fort: A Formidable Fort that Offers Commanding Views of Jodhpur | Royal Rajasthan

 Mehrangarh Fort History 

 Mehrangarh Fort owes its origin to Rao Jodha, the sovereign of Mandore and the author of the megacity of Jodhpur. When Rao Jodha decided to shift his capital to a safer and elevated position in Jodhpur, he laid the foundation of this massive stronghold in 1459 on a hill named Bhakurcheeria aka the Mountain of Birds. The foundation of the stronghold was laid by Shri Karni Mata, a womanish legionnaire savant. 

Legend has it that Rao Jodha had to dislocate the sole inhabitant of the hill, a hermit named Cheeria Nathji, in order to make the stronghold. The enraged hermit cursed that the stronghold would suffer failure of water ever. To assuage him, the king erected a tabernacle and a house for him within the stronghold demesne. Some original stories indeed say that Rao Jodha buried alive a common man named Raja Ram Meghwal in the foundations of the stronghold to abate the impact of the curse. Since the man had agreed to immolate his life willingly, the king promised to look after his family and continued to fulfill his pledge diligently. 

Over time, Rao Jodha’s successors contributed much to the stronghold’s structure. They strengthened the stronghold’s walls and gates and also constructed new palaces and tabernacles within the demesne. It was in the 17th century, during the reign of Jaswant Singh of Marwar, that the stronghold was erected into what we see moment. 

Book: Taxi in jodhpur by Royal Rajasthan

Mehrangarh Fort Architecture 

Mehrangarh, one of the stylish places to visit in Jodhpur, is a festivity of colorful architectural styles. The stronghold and the structures within it were erected over a long period of five centuries starting from the middle of the 15th century till the 20thcentury. So, its armature reflects influences and rudiments from different ages, giving it a unique charm. 

The stronghold is spread across an area of 5 km and is encircled by walls that are around 117 bases long and 70 bases wide. In some places, the walls of the stronghold rise up to a height of 120 bases, which adds to its redoubtable structure. There are seven beautiful gates adorning the stronghold walls, erected at different points in time for different reasons. The stronghold complex also features a number of exquisitely decorated palaces and tabernacles. 

Mehrangarh Fort Today 

 Today, a visit to Mehrangarh Fort counts among the most amazing effects to do in Jodhpur. Piecemeal from the spectacular palaces and extensive yards, the stronghold also houses a grand gallery and an in-house gallery shop. Folk cotillion and artistic performances take place nearly every day within the stronghold. 

Another crucial magnet at the stronghold is Chokelao Bagh, a beautifully restored 18th-century theater that is also the position of the open-air Chokelao Mahal Restaurant. You can delight in a memorable night regale at the eatery while enjoying the stunning views of the illuminated stronghold on one side and the megacity below on the other. However, you can also try zip-filling at the stronghold, If you're an adventure candidate. 

Every time, the Rajasthan International Folk Festival is celebrated at the stronghold for five days in the month of October. The stronghold is also one of the venues for the World Sufi Spirit Festival held in February. Traditional carnivals like Gangaur and Dussehra are also celebrated with important pomp and splendor at the stronghold. Presently, Maharaja Gaj Singh II, the present Rathode clan head, is the custodian of Mehrangarh. 

The Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park, which is located conterminous to the stronghold, is another crucial magnet for trippers visiting Mehrangarh. 

Mehrangarh Museum 

 The gallery at the Mehrangarh Fort has different galleries showcasing an amazing collection of vestiges and ornamental trades. The galleries at Mehrangarh Fort gallery include 

Elephant Howdah Gallery Howdahs ( seats used for riding the mammoths) from the 18th and 19th centuries, including the tableware howdah that Shah Jahan presented to Maharaja Jaswant Singh 

Daulat Khana Gallery Some of the splendid treasures of this stronghold, including many cairns of Emperor Akbar 

. Turban Gallery Colorful kinds of turbans are used in Rajasthan by different communities and regions on colorful carnivals and occasions 

 Palanquin Gallery A spectacular collection of palanquins including Pinjas ( covered palanquins) and Rajat Khasa (lotus- shaped palanquin), to mention a many 

Oil Gallery A fine collection of Model Oils and artwork belonging to the Marwar School 

 Textile Gallery Precious carpets, tents, bottom- spreads, roof walls, garments, and other furnishings from different centuries 

. Sileh Khana or Arms Gallery The brands of numerous lords and emperors, including Rao Jodha’s Khanda, weigh over 7 pounds, and the brands of Emperor Akbar and Timur 

Wood Craft Gallery A number of vestiges sculpted out of wood and decorated with gold polish and ivory 

Cradle Gallery A rare collection of cradles which includes the electric cradle designed for the present king 

 Zip Lining at Mehrangarh 

Jodhpur Flying Fox offers zip filling conditioning at the Mehrangarh Fort. It allows you to enjoy inconceivable views of the stronghold along with its step-well, citadels, lakes, the Rao Jodhaeco-park, and the Jodhpur megacity as well. 

Timings900 am to 500 pm 

 Duration45 to 90 twinkles 

 Cost ₹ 1400 onwards, depending on the session and the number of zips chosen 

Effects to See in the Mehrangarh Fort Complex 

The majestic stronghold has a lot for callers to explore. The top effects to see at Mehrangarh Fort include 

Lodestones near Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur 

Jaswant Thada (800 m) 

 Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park (850 m) 

Toorji Ka Jhalra (2.8 km) 

 Mahamandir Temple, Jodhpur (3.1 km) 

 Jodhpur Government Museum (3.5 km) 

 Bishnoi Village (4.6 km) 

Umaid Bhawan Palace (6.8 km) 

 Machiya Safari Park (7 km) 

 Balsamand Lake (7.2 km) 

 Kailana Lake (7.5 km) 

Mandore Auditoriums (8.2 km) 

 Masuria Hills Garden (9.7 km)