mehrangarh fort
Mehrangarh Fort (http://www.khojbin.com/Me...) dominates the city and is the largest fort in all Rajasthan. Founded in 1458 as the site of Rao Jodha's new capital — hence the name, Jodhpur — the city has grown around it, and in the 500 years that have passed the fort has never been taken by force. It's easy to see why: it occupies the entire top of a 150 m hill with commanding views all around, with some three kilometers of massive ramparts built around the edges. An english owned company 'Flying Fox' operate a zip tour out of the beautiful Chokelao Gardens within the fort.
The name "Fort" belies the size of the complex, which houses the Maharaja's palace, several temples and, tucked away in the back, an extensive garden still farmed to this day. Highlights within the palace include:
Moti Mahal
Pearl Hall. Pearl-colored inside and decorated with colored glass windows, this is where the Maharaja held his audiences, with the five alcoves on the far wall allowing his queens to listen in.Sheesh Mahal
Mirror Hall. Just what the name says.Phool Mahal
Flower Hall. The most extravagant of them all, this was the Maharaja's pleasure chamber, for dancing girls and revelry.Zenana Deodi
The inner sanctum of the palace once guarded by eunuchs, this is where the Maharaja's wives whiled away their days. The delicate sandstone screens and carvings are exquisite.Chamunda Mataji Temple
Tucked away at the far end of the battlements, this temple is devoted to Rao Jodha's favorite goddess and remains a local favorite to this day.A number of people are employed here and there to add flavor by dressing in period costume and doing photogenic things like playing traditional instruments and smoke opium yes, the real thing. Snap away, but they'll appreciate a tip if you do. The museum also includes galleries devoted to howdahs elephant-mounted seats, palanquins, fine arts, weaponry, and the inevitable Turban Gallery.
An audio tour is available for Rs300 for foreign tourists, Rs250 for foreign students and gives you the right to use a still camera. The audio guide is actually quite good, and gives you information you otherwise wouldn't get from signs within the fort.
Entry to the fort is free each year on it's birthday about the 12th of May, and is not as crowded as you would think.
