Forts and palaces

Junagarh Fort of Bikaner

The fascinating piece of architecture was built between 1588 -1593 AD by Raja Rai Singh (1571 - 1611 AD) , a general in army of Mughal emperor, Akbar. The imposing fort has 986 long wall with 37 bastions and two entrances. The Suraj Pole (Sun Gate) is main entrance to the fort.A measure feature of Junagarhfort is the superb quality of the stone carving-it rivals the best anywhere in the world. Among the places of interest are the Chandra Mahal, or Moon Palace, with paintings, mirrors and carved marble panels. The Phool Mahal or Flower Palace is decorated with glass and mirrors. The Karan Mahal was built to commemorate a notable victory over the Mughal Aurangzeb. The Anoop Mahal is famous for it's gold leaf painting. Other palaces worth visiting are the Dungar Niwas, Ganga Nivas, Gaj Mandir, Rang Mahal, Bijai Mahal. Gigantic columns, imposing arches and graceful scenes, minarets and pavilions, in fact, make it worth a repeat visit.