Junagadh Fort: Magnificence amidst the Thar Desert
Junagadh Fort, rich in tradition and history, is a very attractive structure, and the fort is situated in “Bikaner.” It was built by the “Raja Rai Singh” in 1588. After the fort was built, Bikaner City started its foundation. Many dynasties tried to acquire the fort and rule it. Still, the blue blood of Rathores never lost their stronghold. So, the fort shows the unbeatable dynasty’s tradition, spirituality, and sacraments.
How to reach Junagadh Fort
To reach Junagadh Fort, you can use public transport. The fort is just 1 km from the Bikaner Junction (BKN). The tourists can reach Bikaner via train at Lalgarh Junction (LGH) or Bikaner Junction (BKN). The fort is situated in the middle of Bikaner, and you can visit the fort by car or bus.
The architecture of Junagadh Fort
The fort is mainly built on the ground, and the fort’s walls are made thick for the fort’s safety and security. The oversized corridors and windy vents make the fort more comprehensive and beautiful. There is a trench on all sides of the fort, and the simplicity of the sculptures in the fort shows another level of artwork. The beautifully made “Holy Chowk” was the fort’s entertainment hall at that time. All the spiritual customs were followed there. Also, handmade artworks and architecture can be seen in the “Holy Chowk.” The balcony in the Holy Chowk is named “Chini Burj.”
The Mardana Palace and the Janana Palace
The fort has two different parts – “Mardana Palace,” where the men used to live, and second, “Janana Palace,” where the women lived. Only residents of the fort were allowed to enter the “Janana Palace. In the Janana Palace, there are small vents from where women can see outside the palace. But, the outsiders could not see inside the palace. Mardana Palace was a little bigger than the Janana Palace.
The Deewan-e-Aam and Deewan-e-Khaas
The fort has the Deewan-e-Aam and Deewan-e-Khaas. To meet the ordinary people and solve their problems, the fort had Deewan-e-Aam. To meet extraordinary people, the fort has Deewan-e-Khaas. The two of them meant the court and the parliament of that time.
From a tourist’s point of view
To know full details of the fort, you should hire a tourist guide at the fort’s entrance gate. The Archeological Survey of India appoints them at very minimal charges. Hiring a guide will historically make you more knowledgeable. There are many hotels, restaurants, and a railway station near the fort. Explore the Prachina Museum nearby for a glimpse into the fashion and lifestyle of past dynasties at Junagarh Fort. The Lallgarh Palace, Soor Sagar, is Bikaner’s most pleasant and peaceful place. There is a parking area for your vehicles so, don’t worry about the parking.
Therefore, trusting its emaculate appearance, you can enjoy visiting this fort when the fort lights up, and its serene beauty captures the heart of every traveller.
Junagarh Fort ticket price
- Indian: ₹50
- Indian Student: ₹30
- Foreigner: ₹300
- Foreigner Student: ₹150
Junagarh Fort History
The Junagarh Fort is a 16th-century fort in Bikaner, Rajasthan, India. It was built by Rao Bika, the founder of Bikaner, in 1503. The fort in Rajasthan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is highly sought after by tourists.
The fort is built on a high hill and is surrounded by a moat. It has a complex of palaces, temples, and gardens. The most famous part of the fort is the Hawa Mahal or Palace of the Winds. The Hawa Mahal is a five-storey structure with a honeycomb of windows. It was built in the 18th century and is a popular spot for tourists to take photos.
Junagarh Fort Timing
The Junagarh Fort is open to visitors from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, all days of the week.
