Junagarh Fort Bikaner
Junagarh
Fort is one of the most imposing forts of Northern India, 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-storied 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'.
ArchitectureA
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 visual treat
for the 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'.
