We arrived around 8:00 in the morning from the overnight train. We went to the hotel for a chance to unload our baggage, shower, and even take a dip in the pool before heading out that afternoon to Jodhpur's famous Red Fort. The fort is a rather imposing structure--you can see how it would deter invaders. From there, you get a great view down to the "Blue City" of Jodhpur. We had a wonderful audio tour which gave us the full history of the fort.

The hill upon which Mehrangarh Fort was built had one inhabitant, a birdman hermit who was forced out of his cave, and cursed the fort to be perpetually lacking in water. To placate the gods, the ruler, Rao Jodha, entombed a man alive in the foundation. This plaque commemorates the sacrifice. These handprints are from the wives of the various rulers of the fort over the years.

The fort also contains several museum rooms and theme rooms, showing decoration styles from throughout the centuries, including some truly crazy (and out-of-place) art deco stuff.

Later that evening, we took tuk-tuks to a rooftop restaurant, passing the illuminated clocktower along the way. I was sad to have to leave the next morning, especially knowing the 8 hour bus ride on the day ahead, but the tour must go on!