Junagarh Fort

An Overview

Stands gracefully in Bikaner, Junagarh fort is among the most impressive fort complexes of India. It is one of the few major forts that were not built on a hilltop. Exquisitely decorated interiors of the fort still shows its excellent state of preservation. This magnificent fort is very famous as an unconquered monument till date.

History of the Fort

This astonishing fort was built by Raja Rai Singhji. He held a very high designation in the fort. During his tenure in the service, he visited far and wide to collect the ideas about art and architecture. The ideas were meticulously incorporated in the marvelous architectural styles of the fort.

About Junagarh Fort

Junagarh Fort is a unique example of a medieval period monument whose grandeur remains intact because of some great preservation efforts. This massive fort was constructed between 1571 -1612 AD by Raja Rai Singhji, the ruler of Bikaner. The fort is enclosed by a huge wall that seems to have been the prime reason why the fort had never been assaulted.

The exquisitely carved walls of Junagarh still retain the charm of olden days. The fort has been constructed on lower grounds and around 37 bastions protect the fort. The access of the fort is provided by only two gates. The main entrance to the fort is Suraj Pol or Sun Gate. Another entrance is from Karan Pol or gate in the east.

Inside the Fort

The fort includes attractive pavilions, courtyards, palaces and balconies.

Anup Mahal

It is one of the most stunning palaces inside the fort. The shining walls of the palace have been exquisitely covered in red and gold. The coloured glass inlay works on the walls seem very impressive. The white plaster pillars, adorned in many unique patterns and combined with gold leaf are also a worth to see.

Badal Mahal

Badal Mahal boasts of some of the finest paintings decorating its walls. Most of these beautiful paintings have water as its main theme. The Rain Fresco painting of Radha-Krishna is considered as the best.

Phool Mahal

Another amazing palace is the Phool Mahal which is known for its exquisitely carved windows, towers, balconies and kiosks that provide the palace a splendid look.

Har Mandir

There is a temple inside the fort, known as Har Mandir. Once, this temple used to be the place of worship for the royal family.

Fort Museum

The fort also has a museum, having a fabulous collection of the items used by the royals. These precious items talk about the lavish lifestyle of the royals. The collections encompass illuminated manuscripts, carpets, jewellery, arms and weapons used by the royals. Even the treaties signed as well as farmans (orders) issued by the royals have also been well-preserved and displayed here.

Some other remarkable buildings inside the fort complex include Karan Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Ganga Niwas and Durga Niwas. The attractions of the palaces are beautifully carved marble structures, historic paintings and exquisite mirror work.