Bikaner - Junagarh Fort
One of the most imposing forts of Northern India - Junagarh Fort has remained
unconquered till date. This fort was built in 15th century by one of the most
able and trusted generals of Akbar, Raja Rai Singh.
A high wall and deep moats surround the fort. The 37 bastions guard the fort
and only two gates provide the access inside the fort.
The Suraj Pol or the Sun Gate is the main entrance to the fort. The Junagarh
Fort has defied all the attacks except for the brief stint by Kamaran who captured
the fort but was unable to retain his victory more than 24 hours.
Inside the fort is a profusion of 37 palaces, temples and pavilions that are
marvels in red sandstone construction.
The palaces have exquisitely carved windows, balconies, towers and kiosks.The
mirrors, paintings and carved marble panels in the Moon Palace are a treat for
eyes.
The Phool Mahal or Flower Palace was adorned with glasses and mirrors. The victory
over Aurangzeb was celebrated by building the Karan Mahal.
The multi-storeyed Anup Mahal was the governance chambers for the rulers. The
beautifully maintained rooms now display the treasures of the Royal family.
Also worth visiting are the Ganga Niwas, Dungar Niwas, Vijai Mahal, and Rang
Mahal. The fort museum has an extensive collection of illuminated manuscripts,
jewellery, jars and carpets, arms and weapons, treaties, decorations and the
'Farmans'.
This fort and it's palaces were built between 1588-1593 by raja Raj Singh, a
general in the army of the Mughal emperor Akbar.
It has a 96 mt long wall, with 37 bastions and 2 entrances. The main entrance
of the fort is Suraj pol or sun gate.
The fort encompasses many palaces amongst which the most spectacular ones are
the Chandra Mahal or Moon palace, the Phool Mahal or Flower palace, both ornated
with carved panels and mirrors and the Karan Mahal.
Karan Mahal was built in remembrance of the celebration of the grand victory
over Aurangzeb. Durga Niwas, a fabulously painted courtyard and Ganga Niwas
which housed a finely carved red sandstone front, are the other places of attraction
in this fort.
