Mehrangarh Fort visit continues

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. A winding road leads to and from the city below. The imprints of the impact of cannonballs fired by the attacking armies of Jaipur can still be seen on the second gate.

The entire complex is majestic. I had a 'Petra moment' as I entered through the dark main gate and tunnel and emerged into the sunlight to see the palaces for the first time. In the museum, there was an impressive collection of elephant howdahs. All of the exhibits were guarded by men, most with impressive moustaches, wearing traditional costumes. They invariably got annoyed when Indian tourists were shoving cameras in their faces, so I refrained from doing that. I did, however, ask one guard in a quiet corner if I could take his picture. He agreed. I'm very pleased with the way the light from the stained glass window next to him shone on his uniform!Læs mere