Mehrangarh Fort

The Story

Rao Jodha founded Jodhpur and began Mehrangarh in 1459, choosing a rocky outcrop called Bhaurcheeria — the Bird's Hill — for its commanding position over the surrounding plains. Multiple rulers expanded it over the following centuries, each adding palaces and defenses. It withstood attacks by the Mughal emperor Akbar and remained unconquered through the feudal era. The royal family of Jodhpur still lives in a section of the fort today, maintaining a continuity of occupation spanning over 500 years.

What Awaits You

Architecture: Massive Rajput sandstone fortress rising 125 meters above the city, with walls up to 36 meters high — one of the largest forts in India
Cultural significance: Built in 1459 by Rao Jodha, founder of Jodhpur — still owned and managed by the Jodhpur royal family
Landscape / setting: Perched on a rocky outcrop above Jodhpur, the "Blue City," with views across the Thar Desert to the horizon
Unique feature: Seven gates mark the path up to the fort entrance — several decorated with handprints of royal widows who performed sati when accompanying their husbands into death