Mehrangarh Fort

Mehrangarh Fort, built by Rao Jodha in 1459, is one of many largest citadels in India. Soon after his accession to the throne, Jodha shifted his capital to the safer location of Jodhpur whilst the old Mandore Fort was no further secure. The splendid Mehrangarh Fort is situated atop a 150 m high hill and oversees the whole city of Jodhpur. It's possible to capture the breathtaking view of the whole city from the fort. However, to enter the key fort complex, you have to cross the seven huge gateways. Jai Pol (gate of victory) was built by Maharaja Man Singh to mark the defeat of Jaipur and Bikaner. Another significant gate, Fateh Pol (gate of victory) was built by Maharaja Ajit Singh to commemorate the victory of Rathores on the Mughals. Lohapol (gate of iron), the ultimate gate to the key complex, was built as a level of respect for the Ranis of Maharaja Man Singh who threw in the towel their life while committing sati.

Within the premises of the fort, there are many brilliantly crafted and decorated palaces like Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), Phool Mahal (Flower Palace), Sheesha Mahal (Mirror Palace), Sileh Khana, and Daulat Khana. Moti Mahal, or the Pearl Palace, was built by Raja Sur Singh and has five alcoves leading into hidden balconies. It's thought that they certainly were built for his five queens to hear the court proceedings. Another important period room could be the Sheesha Mahal, or the Hall of Mirrors. The mirror-work of Sheesha Mahal includes large, regular pieces, rather than an intricate mosaic of tiny fragments. Another remarkable salient feature could be the superimposition on the mirror-work of brightly painted religious figures produced in plaster. Phool Mahal, produced by Maharaja Abhaya Singh, is another astonishing period room in the fort. Being the grandest of Mehrangarh's period rooms, it is recognized as a personal and exclusive chamber of pleasure.

These period rooms remain well restored to the date. Not just could be the Mehrangarh Fort an architectural marvel which will keep the spectators awestruck but in addition it has one of many finest museums in Rajasthan displaying the rich cultural past and heritage of the Rajputs. The spectacular museum showcases an extensive number of armory, canons, palanquins, royal cradles, costumes, jewelry, furniture, miniatures, and musical instruments. It's possible to also see Elephant's Howdahs in the museum; howdahs were two-compartment wooden seat (mostly covered with gold and silver embossed sheets), usually fastened onto the elephant's back. While the leading compartment was intended for kings or royalty because of more leg space and an increasing protective metal sheet, a corner smaller compartment was for a dependable bodyguard. For admirers of architecture and history, Mehrangarh Fort is really a must-visit during Jodhpur tour.