In 1459, Rao Jodha, the 15th Rathore ruler of Marwar, decided to move his capital from Mandore to a place where it could be defended from attacks. And he decided to build the fort on a different rock, which was at a higher elevation and had better natural defences. The town that grew up at its base was named after him – JodhpurToday, the fort, called Mehrangarh or “Fort of the Sun”, gives insight into the history of the period, as well as the families that later occupied this massive structure. Although its foundation was laid in the 15th century, it was constantly altered and rebuilt by different rulers over a period of 500 years.

What to see Mehrangarh Fort

Built of red sandstone, the building has massive fortifications that rise up to 120 feet and the fort covers an area of ​​1,200 acres. There are several palaces inside the fort, which were the residences of the king and his queens and are now part of the Mehrangarh Museum. The Moti Mahal and Phool Mahal, a flower palace, decorated with intricate mirror work, have exquisite paintings on the ceilings and walls. There is also a Sheesh Mahal (hall of mirrors), an important part of almost all forts in Rajasthan, with fine inlay and mirror decorations. The last ruler to live inside the fort was the 19th-century Maharaja Takht Singh, who built a new residence for himself in a mix of traditional and European styles, called Takht Vilas, which is also an essential complex inside the museum.

The Mehrangarh Fort Museum also houses an impressive collection of royal artifacts spread across six galleries: the Howdah Gallery, the Palanquin Gallery, the Daulat Khana, the Painting Gallery, the Textile Gallery and the Arms Gallery. Here you can see ornate weapons, exquisite textiles and paintings.

But the most impressive part is the ramparts of the fort. Perched atop a hill, the Mehrangarh Fort gives you breathtaking panoramic views of the Blue City and the vast desert landscape. This is where your photography skills are best put to use, and sunset is the best time to climb this part of the fort.

The Mehrangarh Museum Trust has been instrumental in reviving the fort and restoring it to its former glory, and continues to promote its history through cultural experiences and guided tours. That’s why the fort also provides the backdrop for two incredible music festivals each year: the World Sacred Spirit Festival and the Rajasthan International Folk Festival.

Chokelao Palace Terrace

There are very few forts in India that offer a dining experience within heritage sites. And at the Chokelao Palace Terrace, this unique experience comes alive. This restaurant offers panoramic views of the fort and lets you relish Indian and traditional Rajasthani cuisine over a candlelight dinner.

Ziplining at Mehrangarh Fort

Adventure sports companies in Jodhpur offer zipline activity, through which you can experience the fort ramparts and the Blue City on a 300-meter zipline over two lakes.

Also read: Jaisalmer Fort: A Quick Guide to Rajasthan’s Golden Fortress

Tickets for Mehrangarh Fort

Tickets are available from the counter near Jai Pol, the main entrance to the fort, which is on the northeast side. You can enter the fort through several gates, or take an elevator near the ticket counter and go straight up.

International visitor: Rs 600

International visitors (concession for students): Rs 400

Domestic visitors: Rs 200

Domestic visitors (concession for students/senior citizens): Rs 100

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