Junagarh Fort, built in the fifteenth century in the city of Bikaner, has been attracting history lovers for a long time. It is famous not only for its rich history but also for the intriguing features that depict the royal lifestyle of the past.
- Location: Bikaner, Rajasthan, India.
- Built In: 1589–1594.
- Built By: Raja Rai Singhji and Prime Minister Karan Singh.
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
- How to Reach:
- By Air: Bikaner Airport (15 km).
- By Train: Bikaner Junction (2 km).
- By Road: Well-connected by road.
- Sightseeing: Visit Karan Mahal, Phool Mahal, Anup Mahal, Ganga Mahal, and the Junagarh Fort Museum.
Location
Junagarh Fort is located in the city of Bikaner, Rajasthan. The fort became the central point around which the city was developed. Unlike many other forts in India, Junagarh Fort is one of the very few that were not built on a hilltop.
History
Junagarh Fort was built by Karan Singh, who was appointed as the Prime Minister to Raja Rai Singhji, a ruler of Bikaner. The foundation of the fort was laid on February 17, 1589, and the construction was completed on January 17, 1594. Raja Rai Singhji himself was a connoisseur of art and architecture and skillfully applied his knowledge to create a structure that reflects excellence in both the inner and outer design of the fort.
Over the years, several additions were made to the fort. Karan Singh built the Karan Mahal Palace during the period when the Mughals controlled the state. Anup Singh, another ruler, added new palaces along with a Zenana quarter, which was meant exclusively for the women of the royal family. He also constructed a hall for audiences attending court proceedings, which came to be known as Anup Mahal. Other rulers who conquered or inherited the kingdom made several contributions to the fort’s development.
- Suggested to Read: Famous Historical Places In India
Structure
The fort consists of several palaces and temples. It is a rectangular structure with walls that are 14.5 feet wide and 40 feet high. Originally, a moat surrounded the fort, but it no longer exists today. Seven gates and thirty-seven bastions were built as a security measure against potential enemy attacks. As you enter the fort, you will first come across Hindu and Jain temples, followed by beautifully carved red and golden sandstones.
The entry to the fort was initially through the Karan Pol, but now it is through the Suraj Pol or the Sun Gate. The gate faces east, allowing the sun’s rays to fall on it, which was considered a lucky omen. It was through this gate that the emperors used to enter and exit in grandeur. Other gates in the fort are Daulat Pol, Chand Pol, and Fateh Pol.
Har Mandir, a temple, was meant exclusively for the royal family and was used for worship, anniversary celebrations, festive events, marriages, and other important occasions. Another temple, Ratan Behari Mandir, was constructed near the fort in 1846.
Key Places Inside the Fort
- Karan Mahal: This palace was built to mark Karan Singh’s victory over Aurangzeb, the Mughal emperor. With beautiful stained glass windows and gardens, the palace is a true representation of the aesthetic sensibilities of the rulers and architects. Several additions were made to the palace by later rulers, which further enhanced its appeal.
- Phool Mahal: Phool Mahal, meaning the Flower Palace, is believed to be the oldest section of the fort.
- Anup Mahal: This is the most opulent of all the structures within the fort and served as the administrative headquarters for the king.
- Chandra Mahal: Translating to Moon Palace, Chandra Mahal was the king’s bedroom, where mirrors were strategically placed to allow the king to see anyone approaching.
- Ganga Mahal: This is now a museum that showcases military artifacts, including weapons used by the army. One of the highlights of the museum is an aircraft that was used during the First World War and is still well-preserved.
- Badal Mahal: The palace is adorned with several paintings depicting Shekhawat chiefs paying respect to the Maharaja, each wearing different types of turbans. These paintings offer a fascinating glimpse into the royal heritage.
What to Do
The Junagarh Fort Museum, managed by the Maharaja Rai Singhji Trust, was established in 1961 to promote the fort as a major tourist attraction. Inside the museum, visitors can find a variety of manuscripts in Sanskrit and Persian, as well as a wide range of paintings, jewels, royal costumes, headgear, palanquins, war drums, and other historical objects.
Eat, Drink, Collect
Bhujia from Bikaner is a must-try crispy snack that originated in the city. Popular food spots like Bhujia Bazaar, Chai Patti, Chhappan Bhog, and Sankhla Kulfi offer a variety of snacks, meals, and beverages for visitors.
Best Time to Visit
Bikaner experiences extreme temperatures during both summer and winter. Summers can be very hot, while winters are quite chilly at night. The city receives very little rainfall during the monsoon season. Therefore, the best time to visit is during the cooler months, from October to March, when the weather is more favorable for sightseeing.
How to Reach
Bikaner is well-connected by road, rail, and air to other parts of India. Several modes of transportation are available, allowing visitors to choose based on their preferences. Bicycles can also be hired near the railway station, which is a great way to explore the city and fort at your own pace while saving time and money.
