Visit Junagarh Fort – Bikaner’s Top Tourist Attraction
Junagarh Fort in Bikaner brings together Rajputana grandness and Mughal architecture from the 16th century. It was not defeated by attackers, unlike most forts which is why it is recognized as a symbol of great strength. The fort’s many carved places, vast courtyards and its royal museum allow visitors to imagine the former glory of Rajasthan. Anyone passionate about history or culture shouldn’t miss it.
History of Junagarh Fort
The famous Junagarh Fort was built by respected ‘Raja Rai Singh’, a general of Akbar’s army and 6th ruler of Bikaner, in 1589 AD. Unlike many other famous forts, the Junagarh fort was built on the Bikaner plains rather than on a hilltop. Even after its location on the plains, it never lost any fight and wasn’t disrupted by enemies, and this specialty makes it unique among others.
Centuries ago, Rajput, Mughal and Gujarati styles were mixed through the addition of new palaces, temples and pavilions by generations. It’s interior structures like Anoop Mahal, Chandra Mahal and Phool Mahal was well-designed with intricate carvings, shiny mirrors and royal objects. Within the walls of fort, a museum with ancient weapons, manuscripts and costumes that represents Bikaner’s royal heritage, bravery and history.
Junagarh Fort give Bikaner the shape it is known for and is preserved as a strong reminder of the area’s rich history. Thanks to its big role in history and impressive construction, many people admire it as one of India’s greatest forts.
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Unique Architecture
Junagarh fort is a unique example of Bikaner’s Rich culture and heritage with its Rajput and Mughal styles of Architecture. Since the fort was erected on level ground, it is defended by large walls and a wide moat. You’ll find beautiful yellow or gold carvings in Anup Mahal, gleaming mirrors in Chandra Mahal and lovely paintings and flower artworks in Phool Mahal. Famous for its detailed balconies, large courtyards, temples and royal pavilions, the fort clearly proves the skill of medieval Rajasthan’s people. History and architecture fans will regret missing Junagarh Fort when in Bikaner.
Attractions inside Junagarh Fort
It’s massive and splendid exterior architecture will indulge you in it but admiring its inner beauty of structures and sites will make you more enchanted:
1. Anup Mahal
Royals of fort used it as a meeting hall, which is beautifully decorated with splendid wood carvings, fascinating wall arts and overwhelming gold leaf work.
2. Chandra Mahal (Moon Palace)
It was the shine of fort that is also known as ‘Moon Palace’. Its alluring mirror work and wall paintings attacts visitors, while its decorated wall paintings displays the story of its history and livelihood of royal family.
3. Phool Mahal (Flower Palace)
A pleasure hall of royals, which is decorated with colourful wall paintings of flowers and several artworks of beautiful ornamental.
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4. Badal Mahal (Cloud Palace)
This unique architectural brilliance was same as its name because it offers the panoramic views of surrounding terrains and desert.
5. Kar
The main palace of fort was considered the royal court of mahal where critical rulings and announcements took place. The bravery of Bikaner rulers is mostly evident through the showy and impressive buildings.
6. Ganga Mahal and The Museum
Now, Ganga Mahal has a museum that keeps the city’s royal treasures, including antique rifles, ancient costumes, historic documents and photographs.
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Things to remember during Visit
This legendary fort will become more enjoyable for you if you follow these things on your trip:
- Dress lightly with single layered outfit, which make you comfortable during exploring.
- Wear cozy shoes or slippers.
- Don’t use camera in restricted area.
- Keep yourself hydrated with water, especially in heated weather.
- Don’t try to touch historical items in museum to keep its value.
- Various cafes and restrooms are available within the fort.
Best time to visit Fort
You should visit Junagarh Fort between October and March, since the weather in Bikaner is at its best during these months. You’ll find the temperature pleasant for walking through the fort and around the city. Summer months, April through June, are best to skip as daytime highs often rise above 45°C and make the heat very unpleasant. In July, August and September, the monsoon weather makes things cooler but sometimes includes downpours. A visit in the winter, when it’s cool, lets you best appreciate the old fort’s features.
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Timings to visit Fort
Junagarh is accessible for all days of the week including sundays, from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Both museum and fort opens at the same time and closes at the same time.
Entry fees of Junagarh Fort
Entry is classified based on indian and foreigners:
- Indian Visitors: ₹50 per visitor.
- Foreign Visitors: ₹300 per visitor.
- Photography camera charges: ₹100.
- Videography camera charges: ₹200.
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How to Reach
Let’s make your trip easier and comfortable by considering ways to reach:
By Flight: About 13 kilometers from the center of Bikaner, you will find the Bikaner Airport, also known as Nal Airport. Under UDAN scheme, the airline provides restricted domestic flights. If needed, travelers can reach Jodhpur Airport, just 250 km from Bikaner.
By Train: The city is easy to access by trains from Delhi, Jaipur and Ahmedabad. Like daily trains by the Bikaner–Delhi Sarai Rohilla Superfast Express includes several classes of travel for its customers.
By Bus: Each day, both RSRTC and private buses connect Jaipur, Jodhpur and Delhi to Bikaner. Covering the distance from bikaner bus station is possible for travelers by using local transport, as the place is just 6.5 km away.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is Junagarh Fort famous?
Ans: Junagarh Fort is famous for its undefeated history, grand Rajput-Mughal architecture, and beautifully preserved palaces, temples, and royal museum.
2. Who was the king of Junagarh Fort?
Ans: Raja Rai Singh, the 6th ruler of Bikaner.
3. Who built Junagarh Fort?
Ans: Junagarh Fort was built by Raja Rai Singh in 1589 AD, showcasing a mix of Rajput, Mughal, and Gujarati architectural styles.
4. What are the timings of Junagarh Fort?
Ans: Junagarh Fort is open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM, including Sundays.
5. How much is the ticket for Junagarh Fort?
Ans: ₹50 for Indians, ₹300 for foreigners. Camera charges extra.
