Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur

Situated at an altitude of about 125 metres, the Mehrangarh Fort is spread over an area of 5 sq. km in the heart of the city. The fort has seven gates of which the noted ones are the Jayapol, built by Maharaja Man Singh in 1806; Fatehpol or the Victory Gate built by Maharaja Ajit Singh; and the Lohapol or the Iron Gate. The 15 handprints, the sati marks of Maharaja Man Singh's widows who threw themselves upon his funeral pyre in 1843, can be seen beside the Lohapol. On the wall, one can see the strategically located cannons.

Inside the fort, a series of courtyards and palaces greet the visitor. The palace apartments house a splendid collection of the trappings of the Indian royalty. The fort is visited by thousands of tourists every year who come to have a glimpse of the artillery system of the Rajput warriors. One can have a bird's eye view of the city from the fort.

Magnificent Mehrangarh, one of Rajasthan's finest forts, looks down protectively over the city, from the hilltop. The fort is situated at an altitude of about 125 metres and is spread over an area of 5 sq. km with seven gates. One could drive up or walk to the top of the small and not so steep hill. Driving or walking up, the sheer rock face from where emerges the tall and massive sandstone wall of Mehrangarh looks awesome indeed.

In front of the mammoth gate of Mehrangarh Fort, you can find a bearded Jodhpur resident, dressed in traditional threads, complete with turban, sword, shield and hookah welcoming the tourists. You can also find a couple of local musicians singing to the local tunes. I bought the requisite tickets and set off to explore the palaces, hallways and set off to explore the palaces, hallways and courtyards of Mehrangarh.

It is a royal treat, as one passes through the carefully preserved regalia and regal artefacts. Phool Mahal, Sukh Mahal, Moti Mahal. Exquisitely decorated ceilings and walls, with delicate latticework on the windows. Large and unusual wooden statues, painted bright, adorned a palace section amongst an assortment of princely cradles. It is a labyrinth of wonders, not knowing what the next doorway might lead to.

Through the various avenues and routes of this sprawled complex, you will reach the fort roof, overlooking the entire city of Jodhpur, from over rows of medieval cannons. What a commanding view! The thousands of white houses chequered with ones painted blue.