Kite Feeding at Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur: Birds of Prey

Hold bait on the ramparts while kites dive from the sky

Feed kites from the ramparts of Mehrangarh Fort, a 15th-century fortress towering over Jodhpur, with a local English-speaking guide, hotel pickup and two hours of activity. The experience includes entry to the fort and Rao Jodha Desert Park, where you'll explore native plants and desert wildlife before heading to the ramparts to attract the birds. Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are essential; the activity is not suitable for travelers with spinal injuries, cardiovascular concerns or pregnancy.

Step-by-step itinerary

Explore park and kite feeding at fort

• Explore Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park
• Climb Mehrangarh Fort ramparts
• Feed kites with bait
• Return to Jodhpur City
• Stop for light refreshments

The Experience

The day starts at your hotel with pickup in a private air-conditioned vehicle, then heads to Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park, a restored native habitat next to the fort. Your guide walks you through the rocky landscape, pointing out the plants and animals that have returned since the park's creation in 2006—a sharp contrast to the invasive shrub that once choked the land. From there you climb to the ramparts of Fort Mehrangarh itself, built in 1460 and one of India's largest forts, with its seven gates and palaces carved into the stone.

On the ramparts, you arm yourself with bait and wait. The kites—sharp-eyed birds of prey—spot the food and begin to swoop down, their large wings and claws unmissable as they dive toward you. This is the core of the experience: the moment the birds sight the bait and the speed of their descent. It is not a passive watch; you are the one holding the food, timing the release, feeling the flutter of wings close enough to matter. The activity demands patience and a steady hand, and the birds reward both.

Once you've finished feeding, the guide leads you back down and the vehicle returns you to Jodhpur, stopping for light refreshments (beverages are not included) along the way. The whole outing runs about two hours from pickup to drop-off, with the fort and the feeding itself taking the bulk of that time. Bring water, wear comfortable walking shoes, and protect yourself from the sun—the ramparts offer little shade, and the Rajasthan heat is direct.

What’s included

• Hotel pickup and drop-off in a private air-conditioned vehicle.
• entrance fees to Mehrangarh Fort and Rao Jodha Desert Park.
• two bottles of mineral water per person.
• kite feeding activity with bait provided.
• light refreshments (non-alcoholic beverages excluded) on the return journey.
• local English-speaking guide for the full outing.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by SITA World Tours

Is this one for you?Book this if you're traveling solo or with a small group and want a hands-on activity rather than a passive sightseeing tour—you're the one holding the bait and feeling the birds respond, not watching from a distance or following a crowd through rooms.

Top questions

What exactly do I do when I feed the kites on the ramparts?

You hold bait in your hand or on a stick on the ramparts of Mehrangarh Fort, and when the kites spot it, they swoop down from the sky to take it. The birds are fast and their claws are sharp, so the experience is immediate and physical—not a distant observation.

Is Rao Jodha Desert Park a separate visit, or part of the same morning?

Rao Jodha Desert Park is included in the same outing. Your guide takes you through the park first to explore the native plants and desert wildlife, then you move on to the fort ramparts for the kite feeding. Both are part of the two-hour experience.

What's included in the light refreshments, and do I need to pay extra for drinks?

Light refreshments are included on the return journey to Jodhpur, but beverages are not—you'll want to bring water or purchase drinks separately. Two bottles of mineral water per person are provided during the activity itself.

Do I need any special fitness level or health clearance to do this?

You should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness, as the experience involves climbing the fort ramparts and standing while feeding the kites. The activity is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, cardiovascular concerns, or pregnancy.

What should I wear and bring for the ramparts?

Wear comfortable walking shoes and clothes suited to outdoor activity. Sun protection is essential—bring a hat and sunscreen, as the ramparts offer little shade and the Rajasthan sun is strong. Carry a camera if you want to capture the moment, though your hands will be occupied with the bait.