# Mandore

- **Country:** India
- **Coordinates:** 26.353500, 73.033100
- **Location Text:** fort, Jodhpur

Mandore is a historic town and suburb situated approximately nine kilometers north of Jodhpur in the Jodhpur district of Rajasthan, India. Named after the legendary figure Mandodari, this ancient settlement served as the capital of the Rathore dynasty before the founding of Jodhpur. The town holds significant archaeological value as the former seat of the Pratiharas of Mandavyapura, who ruled the region during the 6th century CE. Even after the decline of the broader Gurjara-Pratihara empire, a local Pratihara family maintained control here, eventually forming a crucial alliance with the Rathore chief Rao Chunda in the late 14th century to defend against the Delhi Sultanate.

The historical trajectory of Mandore shifted dramatically through royal marriages and conflicts. Rao Chunda acquired the Mandore Fort as part of a dowry upon marrying a Pratihara princess, establishing it as his family's capital until 1459. During this period, Rao Ranmal secured the throne in 1427 and simultaneously administered the neighboring kingdom of Mewar. However, political tensions led to his assassination in 1438 by Rana Kumbha of Mewar, who subsequently captured the town. Rao Jodha, Ranmal's son, later reclaimed the area before moving the official capital to the newly founded city of Jodhpur, leaving Mandore as a revered historical site.

Today, Mandore is primarily recognized for its well-preserved ruins and cenotaphs, which attract tourists interested in Rajput heritage. The site features ancient temples and the famous Hall of Heroes, commemorating local deities and historical figures. While no longer a political center, the town remains an important cultural landmark within Rajasthan. Its proximity to Jodhpur makes it an accessible destination for viewing traditional Rajasthani architecture and exploring the deep historical roots of the Marwar region, offering visitors a glimpse into the era when it served as the powerhouse of the Rathore rulers.

![Photo of Mandore](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/6c/Temples_at_Mandor_%284571805346%29.jpg)

**Source:** https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mandore (Wikipedia, CC BY-SA)