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Mehrangarh Fort
Rathore Rajputs founded the Mehrangarh Fort in 15th century AD when they shifted their capital from Mandore to Jodhpur. Mehrangarh Fort is built over the buff-colored sandstone hill in such a nice manner that it is difficult to tell where the hill ends and the walls begin. The fort can be approached by seven gateways built in such a manner that armies could not attack with ease. The palatial apartments are across the huge courtyards giving the test of time for over five centuries. Today the fort serves as a museum managed by the Royal Trust.
Some of the palaces are open for visitors like the Moti Mahal. It is noteworthy for its pierced screen windows commanding the view of the coronation seat where the Rathore rulers were ritually anointed. The Janaki Mahal is the zenana apartment from where the women watched ceremonial events. The Chandan Mahal was the official room where affairs of state were discussed. The royal Darbar Takhat or Throne Room has the octagonal throne. The Rang Mahal is the palace where the Maharaja played Holi with his women folk. Other impressive buildings within the fort are the Sheesh Mahal, Phool Mahal, Umaid Vilas and Maan Vilas. You can have a look at a large tent seized from the Mughals in a battle. It is spread for public viewing and is called as the Tent Room.
Umaid Bhawan Palace
Umaid Bhawan Palace is built of marble and pink sandstone in 1929 AD. The British Royal Institute of Architects designed the blueprint of the building for Maharaja Umaid Singh. Also known as the Chhittar Palace because of the use of the local Chittar sandstone, the palace took 15 years to complete. Umaid Singh died four years after the palace was completed. The present Maharaja Gaj Singh II retains a part of the building while the rest has been converted into a hotel.
Jaswant Thada
The Jaswant Thada is half way up the climbs towards the fort. It is the traditional cremation ground of the rulers of Jodhpur. The cenotaph of Jaswant Singh II built in 1899 is most impressive with ornamental gardens and chattris made of white marble memorial. The cenotaphs of other rulers are relatively simpler.
Tourism of Rajasthan offers tour booking and tour packages for Jodhpur, Rajasthan. To book a tour or for more information, please fill up the form below.
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