Mehrangarh Fort at opening time
Mehrangarh was begun in 1459 and enlarged by every ruler of Marwar who followed. It stands on a rock about 125 m above the city, with walls up to around 36 m high in places. You enter through a series of gates, including Jai Pol and Loha Pol; beside the last are the handprints of royal widows who committed sati, a sombre reminder of the fort's history.
Inside, the palaces rise around courtyards: Moti Mahal, the pearl palace for public audiences; Phool Mahal, gilded and painted; and Sheesh Mahal with its mirror work. The museum galleries hold elephant howdahs, palanquins, arms, textiles and Marwar paintings, all well displayed and labelled. The Chamunda Mata temple at the far end of the fort is still active.
We arrive at opening and spend two to three hours. From the ramparts, the old city spreads out in blue below, with Umaid Bhawan on the hill beyond. Afterwards we walk down through the lanes to the clock tower market. The museum's opening hours and ticket rules change, so check current status before you travel.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
How long do you need at Mehrangarh Fort
Two to three hours with a guide or audio guide for the gates, palaces, museum galleries and ramparts. Add an hour if you walk down to the old city afterwards. Jaswant Thada, a few minutes away by car, needs another 30–45 minutes.
Is there a lift at Mehrangarh Fort
There has been a lift that takes visitors from near the entrance up to the palace level, which helps guests with limited mobility. Its operation can change, so check current status before you travel. The ramps and stairs inside the palaces still involve some walking.
What is the best time to visit Mehrangarh
At opening in the morning from October to March, when the light is soft, the ramparts cool and the galleries quiet. Late afternoon is a second option for the light on the city. Avoid midday from April onward, when the stone is very hot.
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