Junagarh Fort is a fort in the city of Bikaner, Rajasthan, India.
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a royalty? Well, look no further because the Junagarh Fort in Bikaner, Rajasthan is here to give you a taste of the regal life. This fort, originally known as Chintamani, was renamed Junagarh or “Old Fort” in the early 20th century when the ruling family moved to Lalgarh Palace. And the best part? It’s one of the few forts in Rajasthan that’s not built on a hilltop, making it all the more accessible for us commoners.
As you wander through the 5.28 hectares of this magnificent fort, you’ll find palaces, temples, and pavilions that depict a composite culture. The walls and moat were built under the supervision of Karan Chand, the Prime Minister of Raja Rai Singh, the sixth ruler of Bikaner, who ruled from 1571 to 1611 AD. And let us tell you, the fort complex is a feast for the eyes, with stone carvings done in red and gold sandstone, and all the structures made of red sandstone.
Despite repeated attacks by enemies, the Junagarh Fort has stood strong and tall, and has not been captured except for a one-day occupation by Kamran Mirza. The fort has a rectangular layout with seven gates and many palaces, as well as Hindu and Jain temples. And, if you’re lucky enough, you might catch a glimpse of the magnificent stone carvings bathed in golden sunlight as the first rays of the sun hit the east-facing Karan Pol gate.
As you make your way through the fort, don’t miss out on visiting the palaces. The Karan Mahal was built to commemorate a victory over Aurangzeb, the Phool Mahal is the oldest palace in the fort, and the Chandra Mahal is the most luxurious and aesthetically pleasing palace. The museum in the fort, built by Maharaja Dr Karni Singhji in 1961, gives you a glimpse into the royal life the fort has once witnessed through various paintings, jewels, and other commemorations.
So, what are you waiting for? Get your tickets and take a step back in time as you explore the Junagarh Fort. Timings: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM. Entry Fee: INR 50 for Indians. Trust us, it’s worth every penny.
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