Mehrangarh Fort & museum
Mehrangarh Fort is a massive 15th-century fortress in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, built by Rao Jodha in 1459. Perched on a rocky hill 125 meters above the city, it offers expansive ramparts, ornate palaces and a well-preserved museum that houses royal artifacts—arms, textiles, paintings, palanquins and more. The fort provides panoramic views of Jodhpur's 'Blue City' and is an iconic example of Rajput architecture and history.
Location
Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur, India
Duration
1.5–3 hours (museum + ramparts). Add 1–2 hours for guided tours or zipline activity.
Best Time to Visit
October to March for pleasant weather; early morning (9:00–11:00) or late afternoon (3:00–5:30) for softer light and cooler temperatures.
Pricing
Approximate (subject to change; check official site or ticket counter): Indian adults: ₹100–250; Foreign visitors: ₹600–900; Children and students: discounted rates available. Audio guides: ₹100–300 (varies by language and package). Photography/tripod or video permits and zipline experiences are extra and charged separately.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Panoramic views of the Blue City and the surrounding Thar landscape from the fort ramparts.
Museum galleries with royal costumes, arms, manuscripts, miniature paintings and ornate palanquins.
Intricately carved palaces: Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), Phool Mahal (Flower Palace), Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) and Takht Vilas.
Chamunda Mataji Temple within the fort complex (active religious site).
Well-preserved bastions and defensive architecture illustrating Rajput military design.
Optional zipline/flying-fox experiences run with approved operators for aerial views of the fort and city (book separately).
In-house conservation and heritage displays by Mehrangarh Museum Trust, including rotating exhibitions.
Itinerary
Arrival and ticketing
Buy tickets at the counter or check online. Collect an audio guide or book a guided tour if preferred.
Explore museum galleries
Start with the museum galleries (arms, textiles, paintings, palanquins). Photography rules may vary by gallery—look for signs.
Palaces and inner courtyards
Visit Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Moti Mahal and Takht Vilas—admire carvings, mirror work and royal chambers.
Ramparts and panoramic viewpoints
Walk the ramparts for sweeping views of Jodhpur. Best photos of the Blue City from Sardar Market area below.
Chamunda Mataji Temple & exit
Pay respects at the temple (observe local customs), then visit the museum shop and cafe before exiting.
Zipline / Flying-fox (book separately)
If interested, pre-book the zipline with an approved operator—adds 1–2 hours and offers aerial perspectives.
Safety Requirements
Wear sturdy, closed shoes—many uneven steps and stone surfaces.
Stay hydrated and carry sun protection during hot months; limited shade in some areas.
Not fully wheelchair-accessible—steep ramps and stairs; check access options in advance.
Supervise children closely around ramparts and steep drop-offs.
Obey signage and staff instructions; drones and commercial photography require prior permission from fort authorities.
Tips
Arrive early to avoid crowds and midday heat; late afternoon light is excellent for photography.
Purchase an audio guide in your preferred language—available at the ticket counter and helpful for context.
Combine the fort visit with a walk in the old city (clock tower and Sardar Market) for local food and textiles.
Carry small change for entry, donations, souvenirs and local vendors. Many places accept cards but connectivity may vary.
Dress respectfully—cover shoulders and knees if you plan to visit the temple inside the fort.
Check the Mehrangarh Museum Trust website for special exhibitions, events, conservation activities and exact ticket prices.
If you plan the zipline, book in advance (limited slots) and confirm weight/age restrictions with the operator.
