The Mandore Garden Fort was the old capital of the Rajputs of Marwad before it was shifted to the Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur.
Marwad is one of the 5 regions of Rajasthan and the others being Mewad, Marusthal, Hadoti, and Shekhawati.
When I visited there last month I found it was a sprawling garden with lush green lawns and dotted with beautiful temples, chhatri cenotaphs, a canal, a dam, a museum, and the old fort.
In ancient history, this was the home of Mandodari, the wife of Ravan. Ravan in turn hailed from Meerut that is 650 kilometers from here.
The fort was successively occupied by Naga Rajputs, then Rathod Rajput, and finally the sultan of Delhi and back to the Marwad Rajputs.
The pillars of the temples are richly decorated with carvings of idols of Hindu Gods and floral paterns.
Here’s a close-up view of the amazing idols carved in sandstone.
The other side of this temple built by the Maharaja Amar Singh also has pillars that are richly decorated.
If you enjoy historic places, then must visit the Mandore Garden Fort.
This temple was built by Maharaja Ajit Singh and is an impressive example of 17th century Hindu architecture.
There is beauty all around if you appreciate the skill of the craftsmen who carved such wonderful temples that are captivating.
The most attractive feature is the intricately carved Jali nets.
This temple was built by Maharaja Sur Singh in 1627
It looks even more beautiful from the backside.
On the return path, I could see the other side of the temple cluster standing majestic radiating its beauty and magnificence.
How to Reach
The fort is about 8 kilometers from the city center and taxis and buses are available.
Quick Facts
Timings: 10 am to 5 pm
Parking: INR 20
Entry: Free
Camera Charges: Free
Note
- Carry plenty of water as you have to walk a long distance in the huge area and the climate around Jodhpur is dry even in winters. It can get a bit warm in the summer.
Accessibility Features
The entrance, parking, washrooms, and all other areas of the Garden-Fort complex are accessible by ramps and leveled roads.
Here’s a snapshot:
Ramp access.
A wheelchair-accessible Entrance.
A wheelchair-accessible Restroom/Toilet.
A wheelchair-accessible Parking.
