[4] Within its boundaries are several palaces known for their intricate carvings and expansive courtyards, a Chamunda Mataji Temple, as well as a museum that houses various relics.

With the help of Rao Nara, the foundation of the fort was decided on 12 May 1459[8] by Jodha on a rocky hill 9 kilometres (5.6 mi) to the south of Mandore.

According to legend to build the fort he had to displace the hill's sole human occupant, a hermit called Cheeria Nathji, the lord of birds.

Rao Jodha then took extreme measures and sought help from another more powerful saint, Karni Mata of Deshnoke who was a Hindu warrior sage born in Charan caste.

Today only the forts of Bikaner and Jodhpur remain in the hands of Rathores, both had their foundation stones laid by Shri Karni Mata.

Rao Jodha also granted villages of Mathania and Chopasni to the two Charan warlords who were sent by him to request maa Mehaai to come to Jodhpur.

Though the fortress was originally started in 1459 by Rao Jodha, founder of Jodhpur, most of the fort which stands today dates from the period of Maharaja Jaswant Singh (1638–78).

The museum houses a collection of palanquins, howdahs, royal cradles, miniatures, musical instruments, costumes, and furniture.

The ramparts of the fort house preserved old cannon (including the famous Kilkila), and provided a breath-taking view of the city.

Howdahs were a kind of two-compartment wooden seat (mostly covered with gold and silver embossed sheets), which were fastened onto the elephant's back.

The front compartment, with more leg space and a raised protective metal sheet, was meant for kings or royalty, and the rear smaller one for a reliable bodyguard disguised as a fly-whisk attendant.

This unique geological feature is part of the Malani Igenus Suite seen in the Thar desert region, spread over an area of 43,500 km2.

[12][13] The park was created in 2006 to try and restore the natural ecology of a large, rocky area adjoining and below the fort and opened to the public in February 2011.

The park includes a Visitors Centre with Interpretation Gallery, a native plant nursery, small shop and cafe.

A human stampede occurred on 30 September 2008, at the Chamunda Devi temple inside of the Mehrangarh Fort, in which 224 people were killed and more than 400 injured.

[14] The fort has musicians performing folk music at the entrance and houses museum, restaurants, exhibitions, and craft bazaars.