A Royal Presence

Although Rajasthan is the desert state of India, but lots of marvellous wonders are present in this rugged land. One such surprise is the massive Mehrangarh Fort, located in the city of Jodhpur. Categorized as one of the largest forts of India, the Meharngarh fort is also a famous tourist spot of Rajasthan and attracts lakhs of tourists from worldwide. Situated on a lofty height of 400 feet and enclosed by imposing thick walls, the grand fort offers a magnificent exterior view to its visitors. Apart from its grand outlook, it also houses various attractions inside its territorial boundaries, which magnetise the tourists from their intricate carvings and sprawling courtyards.

History of the Fort

In 1458, Rao Jodha (1438-1488), one of Ranmal’s 24 sons became the fifteenth Rathore ruler. After one year of his accession, Jodha decided to transfer his capital from the Mandore fort to a new and safer place. Such an ultimate need of new capital, compelled Rao Jodha to built grand Mehrangarh Fort. He commenced the construction of this historical fort on 12 th May of 1459 AD upon a rocky hill, known as Bhaurcheeria or the mountain of birds. It is located at a distance of 9 km. south to Mandore. As the Sun-God has been the chief deity of the Rathore dynasty, they gave the name of the fort as Mehrangarh which means the Sun fort.

Legend Related to Fort

Legend has it that Rao Jodha was an ardent devotee of Devi Chamunda. Therefore, here, you will get to see the idol of ‘Devi Mata’(Mother Goddess). If you visit here during the celebration of Dussehra, then you will just be astonished at the congregation of people to offer their homages to ‘Devi-mata’.

Present Day Mehrangarh Fort

Most of the fort which stands today dates from the period of Jaswant Singh(1638–78). This magnificent fort is surrounded by an impregnable wall, that has a height of 36 meters and a width of 21 meters. There are three gates for entrance and exit, which commemorate historic victories of those contemporary periods. While you enter inside of the fort, your eyes will be simply bedazzle by exquisitely crafted and decorated palaces. Amongst the buildings, Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), Phool Mahal (Flower Palace), Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), Sileh Khana, and Daulat Khana are so praiseworthy that you will feel just a dreamy state.

Notable Structures Inside the Fort

Moti Mahal : Constructed by Raja Sur Singh (1595-1619), the Moti is regarded as the largest palace of the Mehrangarh Fort. Adorned with five alcoves that also leads to hidden balconies, this palace provides a unique charm to its visitors.

Sheesh Mahal : A brilliant instance of Rajput architectural grandeur, the Sheesh Mahal has beautiful mirror-work done with regular pieces of glasses. You will get amazed after visiting this unique palace.

Phool Mahal : The Phool Mahal was built by Maharaja Abhaya Singh (1724-1749). This is a private and exclusive chamber of pleasure. It holds a legendary tale that dancing girls once swooned in exhaustion here under a ceiling.

Takhat Vilas (Maharaja Takhat Singh's Chamber) : Built by Maharaja Takhat Singh (1843-1873), the last ruler of Jodhpur, Takhat Vilas is an marvellous blend of traditional Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. The glass balls on the ceiling are really praiseworthy.

Museum : The fort also houses a famous museum, where you find a rare collection of palanquins, howdahs, royal cradles, miniatures, musical instruments, costumes and furniture. Canons, which are the witness of so many historic victories are also preserved here with great care. You will also enjoy a breathtaking view of the city from here.

Visit the fort

Even today I memorize my visit to this picturesque fort, so, I would recommend you all to visit the fort once. Visit this fort your next vacation, during your visit to the fort, you will come across a number of wonders.. Surely after visiting the fort you will remember the wonders of the forts forever.