Situated on a cliff top, Mehrangarh Fort is one of the largest and most impressive forts in Rajasthan. A classic example of the prosperity and wealth of the Rajputs, this fort stands among the best-preserved forts in India. It was built in 1459 by Rao Jodha, the ruler of Mandor and the founder of Jodhpur city. The fort is secured by 120 ft high walls where you can still see the marks of cannon.
After Rao Jodha, the succeeding rulers kept adding to the structure of the fort. As a result, the architecture of Mehrangarh Fort includes multiple styles. Mainly, the architecture of the fort is a perfect blend of Rajputana and Mughal styles.
The different segments of the fort include Sheesh Mahal, Phool Mahal, Jhanki Mahal, Dipak Mahal, Moti Mahal, Takhat Vilas and Sardar Vilas. Additionally, there are several galleries inside the fort, namely, Howdah Gallery, Palanquin Gallery, Daulat Khana Gallery, Textile Gallery, Arms Gallery and Painting Gallery.
Highlights
• Discover the magnificence of the pride of Jodhpur city, Mehrangarh Fort.
• Seek blessings at the popular Chamunda Mataji Temple and Nagnechiji Temple.
• Witness a mesmerising sunset from the fort which is an unparalleled experience.
• Enjoy a fine dining experience while admiring panoramic views of Jodhpur city.
• Shop souvenirs from the museum shop to cherish your trip to Rajasthan.
How To Reach
By Road: Mehrangarh Fort is located at a distance of 13 km from the city centre of Jodhpur. You can reach the attraction in approximately 30 minutes via the NH62 route. You can easily get a taxi from any corner of the city that will take you to your destination. You can also choose to drive yourself all the way to the Mehrangarh Fort. For a more budget-friendly option, there are auto rickshaws available in the city that will also drop you at the fort.
Best Time To Visit
Mehrangarh Fort is an all-year-round destination and it is open to tourists throughout the year.
Best Season: Plan your visit to the Mehrangarh Fort in the winter season to comfortably explore the fort in pleasant and tolerable weather
Best Day of the Week: If you wish to avoid crowds then the best time to plan your visit to Mehrangarh Fort is during the weekdays instead of the weekends.
Best Time of the Day: Visit the Mehrangarh Fort during the early hours to avoid crowds and comfortably explore the fort at your own pace.
Other Essential Information
- Wear breathable clothes and sturdy shoes for a comfortable experience at the fort.
- Carry sufficient water to keep yourself hydrated throughout the day.
- Keep the environment clean by properly disposing of the garbage in the dustbin.
- Carry sunglasses, a scarf, hat and apply sunscreen to protect your skin from sunburns.
- Take the lift or the stairs if you are tired or having difficulty climbing up the fort.
Visit Museum Galleries
Mehrangarh Fort houses a number of stunning galleries that you can explore. Howdah Gallery includes a collection of elephant seats which holds great historical significance. Palanquin Gallery displays grand palkis decorated with gold and ivory which were used by the royal family. Daulat Khana Gallery is known for displaying one of the best preserved arts, paintings and manuscripts from the Mughal and Rajput period. The Textile Gallery is where you will get to see the royal tents, furniture, carpets and cloth pieces. Arms Gallery displays army equipment like helmets, swords and armour. The Painting Gallery houses a collection of miniature paintings from the Marwar school.
Enjoy folk performances
Your trip to Rajasthan is incomplete if you have not witnessed the vibrant culture and enjoyed the folk performances. For a wholesome experience, enjoy folk singing and dance performances by the local artists. Other cultural performances like Puppet Shows are also organised at the fort for the entertainment of the tourists. Additionally, Mehrangarh Fort also hosts Jodhpur Rajasthan International Folk Festival and Sacred Spirit Festival. These festivals are conducted on a great scale, attracting performers and artists from all over the country.
Shop for souvenirs
To cherish your trip to Rajasthan, shop for souvenirs from the museum shop at Mehrangarh Fort. The shop offers a variety of exclusive items and products to represent the rich and vibrant culture of Jodhpur city. You can shop for authentic jewellery pieces, perfumes, t-shirts, caps and tote bags. Or, you can also choose from a variety of textile items like carpets, rugs and embroidered items. These souvenirs will be the perfect gift for your loved ones as well as for you to remember your exciting trip. Make sure to bargain your best before purchasing as the prices are generally hiked up for foreign tourists.