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Mehrangarh Fort is one of the most magnificent and formidable forts nestled proudly on a rocky hilltop overlooking the bustling city of Jodhpur in Rajasthan, India. It stands proudly on a rocky cliff, overlooking the blue city of Jodhpur. The fort has a rich history that dates back several centuries and has witnessed numerous battles, victories, and rulers. Let’s delve into Mehrangarh Fort history, its features, facts and more about this architectural marvel.
Table of Contents
| Commissioned by | Rao Jodha |
| Also Known as | Fort of the Sun |
| Location | Jodhpur, Rajasthan |
| Timings | 9:00 am to 5:00 pm; Open Everyday |
| Entry Fee for fort | ₹ 100 for Indians; ₹ 600 for foreigners |
| Camera | Still Camera ₹100; Video Camera ₹200 |
History of Mehrangarh Fort
Built-in 1459 by Rao Jodha, the fort was originally known as Mehran Fort, named after the Sun deity. Over time, it came to be called Mehrangarh, meaning “fort of the sun”. Rao Jodha was the founder of the city of Jodhpur and the ruler of the entire Marwar region.
- The fort played a significant role in the history of Jodhpur as it served as the seat of the Rathore clan of Marwar.
- Over the years, successive rulers added to the fort’s grandeur by constructing impressive palaces, courtyards, and gates within its massive walls, making it one of the largest forts in India.
- Mehrangarh Fort witnessed numerous sieges and battles, yet it remained unconquered, as they agreed to a subsidiary alliance with the Mughal rulers and served the Mughals.
- The successive four generations were the loyal allies to the Mughal rulers and also were the effective feudatory chiefs from the year 1581 to 1678.
- This alliance further lasted with the British colonials and later merged with the Union of India post-independence.
Features of Mehrangarh Fort
- The fort’s architecture is a blend of Rajput and Mughal styles, with intricate carvings, lattice work and expansive courtyards.
- The fort houses a series of ornate palaces, including Jhanki Mahal, Moti Mahal, Zenana Mahal, Phool Mahal, and Sheesh Mahal, each reflecting the opulence and splendour of those earlier times.
- It also houses revered and decorated temples like Nagnechi Mandir and Chamunda Devi Mandir.
- The fort has nearly seven gates, each built by different rulers –
- Gopal Pol
- Fateh Pol
- Dedh Kangra Pol
- Amruti Pol
- Loha Pol
- Suraj Pol
- Jai Pol
- The fort museum also adds to the glory and houses a splendid collection of artefacts, including –
- Elephant Howdahs from 18th to 19th century,
- Daulat Khana depicts the treasury of the fort and a few from Emperor Akbar’s treasure.
- Royal costumes and turbans
- Palanquins, Armory, Paintings, and Musical Instruments, offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the erstwhile rulers.
- One of the other features is the Chokelao Bagh which was constructed in 1739 by Maharaja Abhai Singh and later in the year 144, Maharaja Takht Singh made some changes.
- The fort’s massive walls stand at a height of 120 feet and are 70 feet wide, making it one of the largest forts in India.
- It is believed that there are still marks of cannonball hits on the walls of the fort, bearing witness to the battles fought here.
Also Read – Golconda Fort History: Feature, Timings, Facts & More
Facts about Mehrangarh Fort
- Mehrangarh Fort towers over 410 feet above the city of Jodhpur, covering an expanse of around 5 kilometres with thick stone walls that are nearly 36 meters high.
- It is said that the walls of the fort were constructed with materials like water, limestone, and opium, making them incredibly strong and durable.
- Legends and Lore abound about the fort’s construction, including tales of supernatural beings and divine interventions.
Also Read – Neemrana Fort History: Features, Facts, Timings & More
Timings of Mehrangarh Fort
The timings for visiting the Monument and watching the mesmerising blue city from atop are –
| Purpose | Timings |
| Entry | 9:00 am to 5:00 pm |
| Week Entry | Open everyday |
| Entry Fee | For – International Guests – Rs 600; International Guests (Students) – Rs 400 |
| Indian Citizen – Rs 100; For Sr. citizen, Student, Para Military personnel) – Rs 50 | |
| Camera | Still Camera – Rs 100; Video Camera – Rs 200 |
The fort has been featured in several Hollywood and Bollywood movies like The Jungle Book, The Dark Knight Rises, Thugs of Hindostan, etc adding to its allure and popularity. The fort hosts the Rajasthan International Folk Festival annually, attracting artists and musicians from around the world to showcase their talent against the backdrop of this majestic monument.
In conclusion, Mehrangarh Fort stands as a timeless heritage of Rajasthan’s rich history and culture. The hallowed halls and majestic courtyards tell the valour, grandeur and architectural brilliance of the Rathore rulers. Today, Maharaja Gaj Singh II has charge of the fort and preserves the history of his ancestors.
Other Attractions near Mehrangarh Fort
| Umaid Palace Bhawan | Mandore Garden |
| Jaswant Thada | Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park |
| Toorji Ka Jhalra | Rai ka Bag Palace |
| Mandore Garden | Phalodi |
Relevant Blogs
That’s all about Mehrangarh Fort history! If you want to know more about topics like this, then visit our general knowledge page! Alternatively, you can also read our blog on general knowledge for competitive exams!