Mehrangarh Fort

Mehrangarh Fort - The seat of the Rathore kings, the impregnable Mehrangarh Fort stands 400 ft above Jodhpur city on the Bhakurchiria hill enclosing brilliant samples of Rajput architecture. The construction of the fort was initiated by Rao Jodha, and later built on by Jaswant Singh who ruled from 1638 to 1678.

The Mehrangarh Fort is believed to have been the site for meditation of a hermit who was forced to give up his solitude for the sake of the new fort for Rao Jodha. A couple of human sacrifices have also been recorded along with other measures taken to please the Gods.

The Mehrangarh Fort is protected by a six metre thick wall and four gateways of matching strength. Within the fort, there are a number of impressive theme-based palaces like the Moti Mahal, the Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Daulat Khana and Sileh Khana. The expanse of the Moti Mahal was used for public gatherings, and its dazzling architecture reflects the opulence of the Rajputs. The Takhat Vilas built by Maharaja Takhat Singh in the mid 19th century shows the move towards modern architecture

Keeping in mind the secluded lifestyle of the women of the royal household, the Jhanki Mahal was built to allow them a view of the outside world without being noticed themselves. The Sardar Vilas is known for its excellent interiors, while the Umaid Vilas has a gallery of paintings. The Sileh Khana preserves the armoury of the nobles, including those belonging to Akbar, Tamerlane, and of course, Rao Jodha.

Also on display at the Mehrangarh Fort are the embellished howdahs used on the elephants that helped them fight battles. Palalnquins, cradles, paintings and musical instruments in use by the nobility have still been preserved at the fort.

A cenotaph dedicated to the illustrious ruler of Jodhpur, Jaswant Singh was put up in 1899. The family deity of the Rathore dynasty is housed in the Nagchejiji Temple. The Chamunda Devi temple was reconstructed by Jaswant Singh after the original structure built by Rao Jodha was destroyed in a gunpowder explosion.