Jodhpur Fort: 20 great things to Know
Jodhpur Fort, also known as Mehrangarh Fort, is a magnificent fort located in the city of Jodhpur in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is one of the largest forts in India and is perched on a hilltop overlooking the city.
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The fort was built by Rao Jodha, the founder of Jodhpur, in the 15th century. It was constructed as a strategic defense structure and is surrounded by thick walls that are adorned with intricate carvings. The fort contains several palaces, temples, and courtyards, each showcasing the rich architectural and cultural heritage of the region.
Jodhpur fort facts
1. Jodhpur Fort, also known as Mehrangarh Fort, is located in the city of Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India.
2. It was built by Rao Jodha in the 15th century and is one of the largest forts in India.
3. The fort is situated on a 410 feet tall hill and offers a panoramic view of the Jodhpur city.
4. The name “Mehrangarh” means “fort of the sun” in the Rajasthani language.
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5. The fort is surrounded by thick walls, reaching up to 120 feet in height and 70 feet in width, which have seven fortified gates.
6. Inside the fort, there are several palaces including Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, and Sheesh Mahal, which showcase the luxurious lifestyle of the royal family.
One of the notable features of the fort is its impressive entrance gates. There are seven gates in total, each with its own significance. The gates are named after different victories achieved by the Rathore dynasty rulers.
Good times
7. The fort houses a museum that displays a rich collection of artifacts, weapons, costumes, and artwork from the Mughal period.
8. Jodhpur Fort has been used as a filming location for various Bollywood movies, including “The Dark Knight Rises” and “The Fall.”
9. The fort has witnessed several battles and sieges throughout history but was never captured by force.
10. The walls of the fort have marks of cannon balls from the attempted attacks by various rulers.
11. One of the most popular attractions at the fort is the Chamunda Mataji Temple, which is dedicated to the goddess Durga.
Inside the fort, visitors can explore various attractions such as the Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), Phool Mahal (Flower Palace), and Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace). These palaces showcase beautiful craftsmanship and are adorned with elaborate decorations, paintings, and mirror work.
Festivals
12. The fort hosts the annual Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF), a cultural event that showcases traditional folk music, dance, and art forms.
13. Mehrangarh Fort was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013 as part of the Hill Forts of Rajasthan.
14. The fort has a unique feature called “ghantaghar,” which is a large clock tower.
15. The fort offers zipline tours, allowing visitors to experience the thrill of flying over the fort and the surrounding landscape.
The fort also houses a museum that displays a rich collection of artifacts, including weapons, textiles, paintings, and palanquins, providing insights into the history and culture of Jodhpur.
16. The architectural style of the fort is a blend of Rajput and Mughal influences.
17. The fort has been remarkably well-preserved, and its majestic architecture attracts tourists from all around the world.
Museum
18. Jodhpur Fort has a royal museum shop that sells handicrafts, textiles, and traditional Rajasthani items.
19. The fort serves as a popular venue for weddings and cultural events, providing a regal ambiance for celebrations.
20. The fort is illuminated at night, creating a mesmerizing sight and enhancing its grandeur.
From the top of the fort, visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the cityscape and the majestic landscape of Thar Desert. The fort’s location makes it an ideal spot to witness breathtaking sunsets.
Today, Jodhpur Fort is not only a popular tourist destination but also a venue for cultural events such as the Rajasthan International Folk Festival and Jodhpur Flamenco and Gypsy Festival. The fort attracts visitors from all over the world who come to marvel at its grandeur and immerse themselves in the royal history of Rajasthan.
