Explore India - Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur, Rajastan

The foundation of one of the largest forts in India was laid on May 12, 1459 by Rao Jodha, son of Ranmal. He decided to move his capital to a safer location. The fort is situated on a rocky hill , known as Bhaurcheeria – the mountain of birds. According to the legend, Jodha had to get rid off Cheeria Natji, the bird lord, who lived on the hill. The hermit then cursed Jodha :'Jodha! May your citadel ever suffer a scarcity of water!'. Jodha built a temple next to the cave which the bird lord used for meditation but even today the area is plagued by a drought every 4 years. To ensure that the site propitious Jodha buried a man alive in the foundations. His name was Rajiya Bhambi and in return of his sacrifice he was promised that his family would be looked after. His descendants still live in Raj Bagh, Rajiya's Garden, an estate given to them by Jodha.

The name of the fort 'Mehrangarh' comes from the word for sun-deity in Sanskrit ( 'mihir'). The Sun-deity has been the main deity for the Rathore dinasty. 

The fort is situated 400 feet above the city and spreading on more than 5 kilometres. Behind it's walls, which are up to 36 metres high and 20 metres wide, are hidden some of the most beautiful palaces and gardens in Rajastan. The museum in the Mehrangarh fort is extremely well-srocked. The museum exhibits the heritage of the Rathores - arms, costumes, paintings and decorated period rooms. Also the handprints of 15 royal satis, Jodhpur queens who were willingly burnt on the funeral pyres of their husbands , can still be seen. 

Inside, the fort is separated into different 'Period rooms':

1.Moti Mahal – The Pearl Palace

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  It was built by Raja Sur Singh. It's the largest period room – it has 5 alcoves leading into hidden balconies, built especially for his five queens.

2.Sheesha Mahal – The Hall of Mirrors

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   3.Phool Mahal – The Palace of Flower  
   It was created by Maharaja Abhaya Singh as a exclusive chamber of pleasure and entertainment. 
   3. 4.Takhat Vilas – Takhat Singh's Chamber
      
      Travel tip: If you decide to go and explore India - do not trust online bookings and call to confirm your reservations. It might be pricey so use a call service which provides cheap calls to India .