Mehrangarh Fort, Jodphur

This extraordinary fort, towering like a giant over the city of Jodphur, is one of those destinations you could file under the heading, “must be seen to be believed”.

Viewed from the city below, the fort’s muscular sandstone walls (literally as hard as concrete) radiate a sense of permanence. And for good reason; it was built in the 15 th century to resist the approaches of enemy armies from neighbouring Jaipur. 

But if you were to make the journey on foot up the winding path to the entrance – which we wouldn’t advise, incidentally, as there’s a fleet of motorised rickshaws near at hand – you’d find that, up close, the fort tells a different story.

Behind the massive stone walls, through the dim corridors and open courtyards, visitors discover an outstanding display of craftsmanship, by turns delicate and ambitious. Gold leaf glitters from opulent chambers illuminated by glass chandeliers. Believe us when we say this place is huge. You can walk the corridors for miles without doubling back on yourself.

Speak to a native of Jodphur and they talk about Mehrangarh Fort with a deep sense of pride. Quite apart from the centuries of history, not every city has the honour of a visit from Batman. In The Dark Knight Rises, Bruce Wayne climbs from a well, overcoming his demons in the process.

Of course, you needn’t go to these lengths to enjoy this legendary fort. And although thousands of people flock here every year, it seldom seems crowded because of the sheer scale of the place.