A walkthrough the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur

The moment you enter Jodhpur, you’ll be welcomed with the sight of the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort. Dominating the city skyline, this splendid fort is set on a rugged cliff offering mesmerising views of the city. It is considered one of the most impressive and best preserved forts in India and has been attracting tourists from across the globe. Let us give you a virtual tour of this grand fort in Jodhpur.

History

Situated right in the heart of Jodhpur, this ancient fort was built during the reign of Rathore Rajput king Rao Jodha. He started the construction work in 1459 after making Jodhpur his new capital city. A number of ‘curse tales’ are attached with the construction of the fort. Some believe that the fort is a burial ground of a man called Raja Ram Meghwal. To ensure the success of the fort, the king summoned the powerful sage Karni Mata of Deshnok and asked her to lay the foundation stone. The king’s plan was successful and the fort was blessed. It is one of the prime reasons that the fort is still flourishing while most of the forts are in ruins.

Visiting Mehrangarh Fort

You can enter the Mehrangarh Fort for free but a ticket is necessary for the attractions inside the premises. The main entrance is from the Jai Pol. Make sure you are wearing comfortable shoes as the path leading inside the fort is quite steep. Elevator is also available for the old and unwell tourists. Another entrance to the fort is Fateh Pol, which is not used regularly.

The fort opens everyday from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Experiences

For those who don’t know, Jodhpur celebrates its Foundation Day every year on May 12. On this day, entry to the fort attractions is absolutely free! For those who enjoy offbeat experiences, special Mehrangarh by Night guided tours are offered. You can also enjoy dining at onsite restaurants named Chokelao Mahal Terrace and Mehran Terrace (the rooftop restaurant).