Mehrangarh Fort,
Jodhpur is one of the largest and most magnificent forts in India. It was instituted by Rao Jodha, the fifteenth Rathore ruler in 1459 on a 150 m tall hill. According to historical accounts, Rao Jodha in the year 1458 was in pursuit for a safe location to establish his new capital. After a year of exploration, the emperor selected the site for his capital and therefore laid the foundation of this massive fort. According to another account, a hermit resided in a cave near this site. Being distracted by commotion created by construction, the hermit is believed to have cursed the emperor and his new edifice. Terrified Rao Jodha erected a house and a temple near the cave to attenuate the Gods.
Mehrangarh fort encompasses a number of palaces within its fold like the MotiMahal(Pearl Palace). Most of these palaces are made of sandstone and are brilliant archetypes of diaphanously carved stone constructions. In the fort also resides the Sringar Chowki, the royal throne of Jodhpur, Umaid Villas that flaunt Rajput diminutive paintings, Ajit Villas that houses musical instruments, royal costumes and a beautiful mirror room. PhoolMahal (Flower Palace) showcases musical moods in its exquisite paintings imprinted all over the walls and ceilings. Phool Mahal is home to the Jodhpur Coat of Arms. Maan Villas shows off an enviable collection of arsenal of Rathore and the stylish 'Tent room' with its red velvet and golden embroidery. The ‘Tent Room’ was a regal Mughal campaign tent used mostly by Shahjahan. Today, it is displayed as a trophy of victory of Jaswant Singh over Aurangzeb in one of the battles.
» How to Reach Mehrangarh Fort By Air: Regular flight services are available from Jodhpur Airport which is merely 5km from the city’s center. The airport connects the city well with other major Indian cities including Delhi, Jaipur, Udaipur and Mumbai. By Train: Reliable rail services to Jodhpur are available. The city has a vast and efficient network of railway lines comprising trains to Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata. The main railway station is located in the south of the Sun City. By Road: Taxis, Auto- rickshaws, Rajasthan State buses and Tongas constitute the local transport of the city and connect Jodhpur to major cities of Rajasthan and other Indian states.