The historic city of Jodhpur is renowned worldwide for its majestic palaces and defensive fortifications, yet beneath those architectural wonders lies an equally fascinating geological foundation shaped over thousands of years. In an effort to bring this hidden natural inheritance into the spotlight, Mehrangarh Fort will host a dedicated geo-heritage awareness drive alongside a guided walk on October 6, 2026. Organised to commemorate International Geodiversity Day, the initiative aims to bridge the gap between cultural monuments and the ancient rocky terrain beneath them. The overarching objective of the movement is to build public momentum toward earning Mehrangarh the distinction of becoming the very first UNESCO Global Geopark in India.
Community Outreach Under an Accessible Theme
For this edition of the global observance, organisers have adopted the official theme of 'Geodiversity at our Doorstep'. The concept is designed to help everyday citizens appreciate the environmental and scientific value of the hills, boulders, terrain contours, and historic water harvesting structures that surround their daily routines. Dr. Shiv Singh Rathore, representing the organising committee, highlighted that the programme will actively engage school and university students, academic researchers, licensed tourist guides, travel industry professionals, and local residents.
Bridging a Major Gap on the Global Geological Map
Across the globe, designated geological reserves play a transformative role in driving sustainable geo-tourism and safeguarding delicate landforms. Currently, there are 241 certified UNESCO Global Geoparks spread across 51 nations. In sharp contrast, India has yet to secure a single UNESCO Global Geopark within its borders. Jodhpur presents an ideal case to end this absence, as the region blends rare geological formations, distinctive landforms, ancestral water heritage, and formidable living architectural traditions into one cohesive landscape.
Exploring Six Signature Locations at Dawn
The guided heritage walk is scheduled to begin at 6:30 AM, guiding walkers through six prominent sites spread across the fort complex and its immediate perimeter. Subject matter experts will explain how the city's tough rocky topography and traditional water reservoirs directly shaped the defensive layout and everyday endurance of Mehrangarh. By connecting geological science with human history, the route will present the fort as an interwoven tapestry of rock systems, hydrology, and cultural craftsmanship.
Expert Leadership and Citizen Participation
The initiative draws together scholars and heritage administrators, including Professor Suresh Chandra Mathur, former head of the geology department; Dr. Shiv Singh Rathore; Dr. Mahendra Singh Tanwar from the Mehrangarh Museum; Colonel Ajay Singh Shekhawat; and Dr. Saurabh Mathur from Jaipur. Around 250 participants are expected to take part in the walk. Beyond generating public excitement, the collective exercise seeks to establish a firm framework for future research, ecological conservation, educational outreach, and geo-tourism, strengthening Jodhpur's credentials for global recognition.
