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Junagarh Fort, Bikaner

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.
Junagarh Fort, Bikaner Reservation Form