Mehrangarh Fort covers an area of 1,200 acres in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. The complex is located on a hilltop around 122 metres above the surrounding plain, and was constructed circa 1459 by Rajput ruler Rao Jodha.
Inside its boundaries there are several palaces known for their intricate carvings and expansive courtyards, as well as a museum housing various relics. A winding road leads to and from the city below. The imprints of the impact of cannonballs fired by attacking armies of Jaipur can still be seen on the second gate.
There are seven gates, which include Jayapol (meaning ‘victory gate’), built by Maharaja Man Singh to commemorate his victories over Jaipur and Bikaner armies. There is also a Fattehpol (also meaning ‘victory gate’), which commemorates Maharaja Ajit Singh Ji’s victory over Mughals.
Mehrangarh (etymology: ‘Mihir’ (Sanskrit) -sun or Sun-deity; ‘garh’ (Sanskrit)-fort; i.e.’Sun-fort’); according to Rajasthani language pronunciation conventions, ‘Mihirgarh’ has changed to ‘Mehrangarh’; the Sun-deity has been the chief deity of the Rathore dynasty.
Within the fort are several brilliantly crafted and decorated palaces. These include, Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), Phool Mahal (Flower Palace), Sheesha Mahal (Mirror Palace), Sileh Khana and Daulat Khana. The museum houses a collection of palanquins, howdahs, royal cradles, miniatures, musical instruments, costumes, and furniture.
Some of the notable festivals taking place at Mehrangarh Fort include the World Sacred Spirit Festival and Rajasthan International Folk Festival.
By Air: The nearest airport is at Jodhpur, located five km from the city centre. The airport is well connected by flights with cities like Jaipur, Delhi and Mumbai. From the airport taxi services are available.
By Train: Jodhpur is an important junction of North Western railway zone in India. Trains from major India cities like Mumbai, Jaipur, Delhi, Kolkata, Jaisalmer, Chennai and Bengaluru halt at the station.
By Road: Jodhpur by road may be a good option and it takes 13 hours to reach from Delhi via Jaipur. The highways are very good.