Junagarh Fort

It is known as one of the most impressive forts of Rajasthan. It can be easily reached from Bikaner by road.

Flashback

Constructed between 1588-1593, by a General in Mughal Army - Raja Rai, it is made on ground and not on the top of any hill. As the time passed by the later on Maharajas added luxorious suites to the Fort.

The Fort

It is one of the most impressive forts of Rajput Dynasty. Once it was protected by a 986m long wall with 37 bastions and was surrounded by a moat. The entrance to the Fort is from the Suraj Pol(the Sun Gate). There are small palaces inside the fort in the southern side which have the coutyards, towers and windows with beautiful carvings on them. Then there is the Daulat Pol which tells the tale of thousand wives of Rajput knights and soilders who commited sati on their husbands pyre. Enter the Diwn-i-Khas (Hall of private audience) with the silver Gaddi(throne) still there to remit the past. It has the gold painted ceiling which is a charm in itself. Then there is the Phool Mahal (Flower Palace), besides which is the statue of the Surya, the Sun God. The entire fort is a beautiful land of paintings and carvings.

In and Around

» Gaj Mandir : It was the private chamber of King Gaj Singh.The Queens chamber here is filled with mirror tiles and gold painting all over its walls. On the other hand, the Maharajas chamber has its ceiling carved out of wood and has beautiful carvings on it with ivory doors.

Not to be Missed

» The Museum : From the Suraj Pol there is a direct way to it. It has all which shows the Western Influence on the Bikaner Kings and there generations. Crockery from countries like France and England are shown here. In addition there is also a cafe and a small shop in the museum to relax and read from the collection of books which are there.