|
Mehrangarh Fort
Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur is one of the largest forts in
forts. It is also the most magnificent fort in Jodhpur,
infact, in the whole Rajasthan. The fort is amongst the
popular tourist places in India. It is situated on a 150 m
high hill. It was founded by Rao Jodha in 1459. The
Mehrangarh Fort can be reached from the city, 5 kms below,
through a circular road.
Seven gates have to be crossed to reach the fort. The gates
still bear the marks of the various battles fought in the
bygone era. Its second gate still stands witness to canon
ball hits by attacking armies of Jaipur during wars. One of
the gates is Jayapol, meaning victory. It was built by
Maharaja Man Singh to commemorate his victories over Jaipur
and Bikaner armies. Another gate, Fattehpol, again meaning
victory, was built by Maharaja Ajit Singh as a celebration
for defeating the Mughals.
Other attractions of Mehrangarh Fort, Rajasthan include
several palaces inside the fort, with their sprawling and
huge courtyards. One of the fort's palaces, The Moti Mahal
or the Pearl Palace, has the royal throne of Jodhpur, the
Sringar Chowki. The fort also has galleries, temples, etc.
To the left of the Mehrangarh Fort is the Chhatri of a
soldier, Kirat Singh Soda. It is the spot where he fell
while defending the fort against the armies of Amber.
The Mehrangarh Fort, with its beauty, is the living proof of
the hard work and skill of the Jodhpuri sculptors. |
