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Rajasthan

Junagarh Fort

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January

2.2 - 29.2 °C

February

5.8 - 33.1 °C

March

11.3 - 39.0 °C

April

17.3 - 43.6 °C

May

21.4 - 46.1 °C

June

22.6 - 45.9 °C

July

24.6 - 43.2 °C

August

24.5 - 40.4 °C

September

22.4 - 40.7 °C

October

15.9 - 39.4 °C

November

9.2 - 35.2 °C

December

4.0 - 31.0 °C


Major Airports :

Jaipur International Airport (JAI), Jaipur

Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), Delhi

Bikaner Airport (BKB), Bikaner

Nearest Railway Station :

Bikaner Railway Station (BKN)

Major Airports :

Jaipur International Airport (JAI), Jaipur

Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), Delhi

Bikaner Airport (BKB), Bikaner

A majestic fortress from the regal days of Bikaner

Rising majestically from the sandy expanse of the Thar Desert, the Junagarh Fort stands as a monumental testament to the vision and architectural prowess of Bikaner's rulers. Initially called Chintamani, this imposing citadel traces its origins to 1478 when Rao Bika laid the foundations for an enduring symbol of the region's grandeur.

Yet, it was not until 17 February 1589 that the fort's present, awe-inspiring incarnation was unveiled. Its sandstone walls and towering ramparts cast an imposing silhouette against the endless desert skies. The palaces inside, resplendent in their intricacy, whisper tales of the royal bygone era and the fort's successive rulers.

From the late 16th century onwards, the Junagarh Fort has witnessed the triumphs and tribulations of many illustrious rulers, leaving an indelible mark on its grounds.

Today, this magnificent bastion is a proud custodian of Bikaner's storied past, inviting all who cross its threshold to experience the profound legacy of the region's regal lineage.

Tracing the royal roots

The saga of Junagarh Fort's genesis can be traced back to 1478 when Rao Bika laid the foundations for this architectural marvel amidst the arid embrace of the Thar Desert. What began as a humble stone fortification would eventually blossom into an imposing citadel. As the developing city shaped around this mighty bastion, foreign invaders sought to capture its strategic dominance. While others failed, the son of the Mughal emperor Babur, Kamran Mirza, briefly claimed victory in 1534, his fleeting conquest a mere footnote in the fort's enduring narrative.

Under the patronage of Raja Rai Singh, the sixth ruler of Bikaner, the Junagarh Fort truly flourished. A skilled diplomat and warrior, Rai Singh's victories in battle earned him accolades and jagirs from the Mughal emperors Akbar and Jahangir. With his newfound resources and an artistic vision transcending mere fortification, Rai Singh embarked on an ambitious endeavour to transform the fort into a grand architectural statement. The foundation ceremony was held on the auspicious date of 17 February 1589, and five years later, on 17 January 1594, the world bore witness to the glorious culmination of Rai Singh's dreams.

Architecture that will astound you

The architecture of Junagarh Fort is an amalgamation of diverse cultural influences, each contributing to its enduring splendour. At its core, the fort embraces the traditional Rajput style, a testament to its origins as a bastion of the region's proud warrior lineage. Yet, as Bikaner's rulers forged alliances with the mighty Mughals, their architectural vision expanded, seamlessly blending Gujarati and semi-western elements into the fort's architecture.

With its imposing rectangular layout spanning over 1,078 yards and enclosing an area of 63,119 square yards, the fort's grandeur is undeniable. Its sandstone walls, adorned with intricate carvings in hues of red and gold, stand as a testament to the artistry of its creators. Within its embrace, you will find a cluster of palaces, each a masterpiece in its own right, their designs reflecting the cultural heritage and personal tastes of the rulers who commissioned them. From the magnificent gates, including the golden sandstone Karan Pol and Suraj Pol, to the exquisitely adorned balconies and kiosks, every element of the fort's architecture bears the indelible imprint of Rajasthan's regal legacy. The interiors, meticulously crafted in the traditional Rajasthani style, transport you back to an era of opulence and grandeur.


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Timings

Opening time - 10:00 AM

Closing time - 04:30 PM

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Exploring the treasures inside

Step through the imposing gates of Junagarh Fort and prepare to be transported into a realm where architectural wonders abound, from the golden sandstone visage of Suraj Pol, where the first rays of dawn cast an ethereal glow upon the stately elephant statues to the sombre Daulat Pol, bearing the imprints of the royal ladies who practiced Sati and made the ultimate sacrifice.

Marvel at Karan Mahal, a triumphant monument to victory over the mighty Aurangzeb, or lose yourself in the timeless elegance of the Phool Mahal, the oldest jewel in the fort's crown. The Anup Mahal and Chandra Mahal beckon with their multi-storey grandeur and exquisite artistry, while the Ganga Mahal, a 20th-century addition, houses a museum that unveils the fort's storied past.

Yet, the architectural marvels extend beyond the fort's walls, with the unique Bikaneri havelis within its boundaries, testifying to the royal styles gracing this desert oasis. As you wander through its courtyards, the echoes of a bygone era whisper tales of opulence and grandeur, inviting you to witness the living legacy of Junagarh.

Beyond the fort

While the Junagarh Fort is an architectural marvel that commands your undivided attention, the surrounding region holds a treasure trove of delights to explore. Just a short distance away, the vibrant city of Bikaner beckons with its labyrinth of ancient havelis, each a masterpiece of intricate carvings and regal grandeur. The Laxmi Nath Temple, with its glorious red sandstone façade, stands as a sacred sanctuary that has witnessed centuries of devotion. From the ancient Karni Mata Temple, where rats are revered as holy beings, to the awe-inspiring Kalika Mata Temple, a treasure trove of spiritual and cultural wonders awaits those who venture beyond the fort's imposing walls.

Explore the architectural marvels of Junagarh Fort, lose yourself in the echoes of a bygone era, and unravel the rich heritage of Bikaner. Let this desert jewel captivate your senses and transport you to a realm where history and wonder intertwine, creating memories that will stay with you for life.

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