22 December 2013
Mehrangarh fort dominates the landscape of Jodhpur. Built in
15th century by Rao Jodha, the Rathore ruler of Jodhpur, it is one
of the biggest forts in Rajasthan.
We were undecided whether to hire a guide or not. Without a
guide, it is difficult to understand the details of the fort. But a guide would
also mean that we have little freedom in movement as he does not want to waste
time. The problem was solved by Audio guide. It would give us the flexibility
and freedom to move. Another advantage is that it would keep my daughter
engaged. Else, kids give a touch time in historical monuments as they easily
get bored.
Audio guide has two slots for headphone. So, one can be used
by two people. It also has a speaker. In a nutshell, it was a good decision to
get an audio guide as the quality was also good.
Series of seven gates provide entry to the fort. In one of
the gates you can still see the scars of Cannon balls.
In the final gate before entering the main complex, sati
marks can be seen who immolated themselves in 1843 on the funnel pyre of their
husband and the king Maharaja Man Singh.
Main complex contains several chambers important of them
being Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesha Mahal Sileh Khana and Daulat Khana. It
also houses a museum.
Sheesha Mahal is the hall of mirrors.
Phool Mahal was a private chamber of pleasure.
Here is the Hukka guy.
My daughter happily listening to the audio guide. She
preferred to hear from speaker.
Moti Mahal, a chamber most likely for queens.
The top of the Palace provides a bird eye view of Jodhpur.
Jodhpur is called as blue city. But blue building are only concentrated near
Mehrangarh fort.
After these palaces, continue further to see the canons
places on top area of the fort. This is a huge area which is almost flat. Nice
view of Jodhpur city can be seen.
At the end of the fort is Chamunda Mataji Temple. This has a
sad history. Around 250 people were killed in a stampede in 2008 on the first
day of Navarathri.
The fort has two restaurants. One at the entrance of the
fort serves snacks and light refreshments. The other one near the palace is a
fully fledged but an expensive restaurant. We preferred the one at the
entrance.
Along with entry tickets, one can also buy a lift ticket
that allows you to take the elevator to the top of the fort. I purchased a single journey ticket from the
top of the fort to the entrance but never used it!!
Labels: fort, Rajasthan, travel