Mehrangarh Fort Jodhpur, 400 feet above Jodhpur’s skyline, is one of India’s largest and most magnificent forts. Established in 1459 by Rao Jodha, this gigantic monument reflects Rajasthan’s glorious past in the form of grand palaces, exquisite carvings, and an interesting museum. Its imposing walls, breathtaking architecture, and panoramic views of the Blue City make it an absolute must-see. It is a timeless reflection of power, pride, and architectural excellence. Mehrangarh Fort History Mehrangarh Fort Jodhpur was constructed in 1459 by Rao Jodha, the king of Marwar and the founder of Jodhpur. Legend has it that when Rao Jodha decided to relocate his capital from Mandore to a more secure site, he picked the rocky hill known as Bhakurcheeria (the Mountain of Birds) to construct his fort. To build the fort, they moved a sage named Cheeria Nathji, who lived on the hill. People believe that the sage cursed the land, proclaiming that it will always be drought-prone. To satisfy the curse, Rao Jodha built a modest temple and a dwelling for the sage within the fort grounds and buried a man named Rajaram Meghwal alive at the foundation site, which was a customary tradition at the time believed to bring good luck. Over the decades, successive monarchs expanded this Fort. They built splendid palaces, courtyards, temples, and gateways such as Jai Pol and Fateh Pol to commemorate triumphs against neighboring kingdoms. Despite numerous wars and sieges, the fort remained unconquered due to its huge walls and strategic position. Details Information Name Mehrangarh Fort Location Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India Founded by Rao Jodha Year of Construction 1459 AD Elevation 400 feet above the city Famous For Majestic architecture, museum, panoramic views, history Opening Timings 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Entry Fee ₹200 (Indians), ₹600 (Foreigners) (approx) Time to Explore 2 to 3 hours Best Time to Visit October to March Mehrangarh Fort Architecture The architecture of Mehrangarh Fort is a breathtaking combination of elegance and strength. With its massive red sandstone walls, the fort seems to emerge naturally from the rocky cliff. Inside the fort, you will see the palaces such as Sheesh Mahal, Phool Mahal, and Moti Mahal reveal ornate carvings, mirror work, and luxuriantly decorated interiors. The huge gates of the fort, such as Jai Pol and Loha Pol, tell the stories of its historical battles and victories. Delicate jharokhas (balconies), large courtyards, and curved passageways prove the genius of Rajput architecture. With panoramic views of the Blue City from its terrace, It is a marvel of art, majesty, and eternal royal pride. If you love to read about majestic forts you can also read about Amber Fort Jaipur, Kumbhalgarh Fort and City Palace Udaipur. Mehrangarh Fort encompasses more than imposing walls and palaces; its magnificent gates, or poles, share tales of courage and triumph. As you walk in, you first see Jai Pol, or “Gate of Victory,” constructed by Maharaja Man Singh to commemorate a victory over the Jaipur armies. Things to See at Mehrangarh Fort Jodhpur Mehrangarh Fort Museum Mehrangarh Fort Museum celebrates the rich cultural heritage and imperial legacy of the Marwar dynasty. The museum contains a majestic collection of artifacts such as royal palanquins, ornate elephant howdahs, ceremonial costumes, weapons and armor, miniature paintings, and decorative art. Every gallery testifies to the splendor of Rajasthan’s imperial past and the artistic merit of its populace. Some of its most striking displays are: Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) Sheesh Mahal, located within Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, is a breathtaking example of Rajput mirror artistry and royal craftsmanship. Thousands of perfectly cut mirrors decorate the palace, reflecting light and creating a magnificent ambiance. Unlike normal mirror halls, it has exquisite murals of Hindu deities that combine spirituality and splendor. Sheesh Mahal, once a private chamber for the Maharajas, showcases Marwar’s rich artistic tradition and is now a popular attraction for travelers interested in Rajasthan’s royal legacy. Phool Mahal The Phool Mahal, also known as the “Flower Palace,” is Mehrangarh Fort’s most magnificent and ornate room. Maharaja Abhaya Singh built it in the 18th century to serve as the royals’ private pleasure room or hall of amusement. The area is lavishly embellished with gold filigree work, mirror embellishments, and bright paintings, particularly on the ceiling, which depicts elaborate floral patterns and royal portraits. Phool Mahal, symbolizing richness and refinement, exemplifies the Marwar dynasty’s creative magnificence. Moti Mahal Raja Sur Singh erected the Moti Mahal, also known as the “Pearl Palace,” in the 17th century. It is one of Mehrangarh Fort’s largest and oldest rooms. It served as the royal Durbar Hall, where the king met his ministers and held court. The hall has highly polished lime plaster walls that sparkle like pearls, stained glass windows, colorful niches, and a magnificent throne. The Moti Mahal symbolizes the Marwar monarchs’ regal might and artistic wealth. Takhat Vilas Takhat Vilas was the personal house of Maharaja Takhat Singh, Jodhpur’s last ruler, who lived in Mehrangarh Fort during the late nineteenth century. The space elegantly combines traditional Rajasthani and colonial features. Bright paintings, glass balls, and mirror work beautifully ornament the walls and ceiling, resulting in a vibrant and colorful ambiance. Takhat Vilas represents the artistic interests of the time and provides insight into the life of Jodhpur’s last fort-dwelling king. Chamunda Devi Temple Devotees adore the Chamunda Devi Temple, located on the southern side of Mehrangarh Fort, as a shrine to Goddess Chamunda, the furious aspect of Durga. Rao Jodha, the founder of Jodhpur, transported the statue to the fort around 1460, where she became the kuldevi (family deity) of the royal Rathore line. The temple is exceptionally vibrant during Navratri, attracting a large number of worshipers. With breathtaking views of the city, it is both a spiritual and scenic destination. Janki Mahal People think that queens and royal ladies used the Janki Mahal, which was part of the royal women’s quarters (zenana) at Mehrangarh Fort. It embodies the beauty and comfort of royal living, with delicate lattice windows (jharokhas), elaborate sculptures,