Junagarh Fort - Bikaner, Rajasthan, India
Posted by: Groundspeak Regular Member denben
N 28° 01.321 E 073° 19.113
43R E 334695 N 3100781
Junagarh or “Old Fort” is a fort in the city of Bikaner, Rajasthan. It is one of the few major forts in Rajasthan which is not built on a hilltop. It is one of the most impressive fort complexes in India.
Waymark Code: WMQ30C
Location: India
Date Posted: 12/09/2015
Published By:Groundspeak Premium Member lumbricus
Views: 1

Junagarh Fort was 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. Construction of the walls and associated moat commenced in 1589 and was completed in 1594.

Historical records reveal that despite the repeated attacks by enemies to capture the fort, it was not taken, except for a lone one-day occupation by Kamran Mirza. Kamran was the second son of the Mughal Emperor Babur who attacked Bikaner in 1534, which was then ruled by Rao Jait Singh. In the battle, the Mughals were defeated by Rathors. Kamran then returned to Lahore.

Junagarh fort is surrounded by high walls and deep moats. There are 37 bastions that guard the fort and the fort is accessible through two Gates. The Suraj Pol or the Sun gate is the main entrance to the Junagarh fort. Inside the Junagarh fort there are 37 palaces, temples and pavilions. All these structures are marvels in red sandstone. The palaces inside the fort have elegantly carved windows, balconies, towers and kiosks. The mirrors, paintings and carved marble panels in the Moon palace are worth having a look. Another fascinating palace inside the fort, the Phool Mahal or Flower palace was decorated with glasses and mirrors.

One of the most impressive structures in the Junagarh fort complex is the Anup Mahal. Its elaborately decorated walls are covered in red and gold with colored glass inlay. The Anup Mahal is a multi-storied palace and was the governance chambers for the rulers. Its beautifully decorated rooms display the valuables of the royal family. In the Badal Mahal or the clouds palace White plaster pillars are decorated in delicate patterns and covered with gold leaves. The Badal Mahal or Cloud Palace's walls are painted with a fresco of rain clouds. In the rain fresco photograph there is a painting of Krishna and Radha surrounded by the blue cloud motifs.

Other interesting places to watch in the Junagarh fort are the Ganga Niwas, Dungar Niwas, Vijay Mahal and Rang Mahal. Junagarh fort has a museum, which has an extensive collection of various things belonging to the past.

See our gallery of 11 photos.

Sources: (visit link) and (visit link)
The year the "Fort" was constructed or started.: 1589

Name of "Country" or "Nation" that constructed this "Fort": India

Was this "Fort" involved in any armed conflicts?: Yes it was

What was the primary purpose of this "Historic Fort"?: Used for defence of a border or land claim.

Current condition: Great condition - see our pictures

This site is administered by ----: Maharaja Rai Singh Ji Trust

If admission is charged -: 300.00 (listed in local currency)

Open to the public?: Restricted hours -Admission charged

Official or advertised web-page: [Web Link]

Link to web-site that best describes this "Historic Fort": [Web Link]

Link if this "Fort" is registered on your Countries/ State "Registry of Historical Sites or Buildi: Not listed

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