Junagarh Fort, Bikaner

Overview

Junagarh Fort in Bikaner was begun in 1589 under Raja Rai Singh, a general of the Mughal emperor Akbar, and was built on flat ground rather than on a hill. Later rulers added palaces, courts and pavilions over about three centuries.

The interiors are famous for rich colour and detail, with painted ceilings, mirror work and carved sandstone balconies in halls such as the Anup Mahal and Karan Mahal.

What to look for

• Anup Mahal, the glittering audience hall
• Karan Mahal and the Phool Mahal
• The carved sandstone balconies and jharokhas
• The museum's weapons, palanquins and royal collections

Visiting tips

• Allow about two hours: a private guide helps with the many halls.
• The fort is in the old city: go in the morning before the heat.
• Bikaner also has the Bhandasar Jain Temple and the Karni Mata Temple nearby.

Why visit with a private guide

A private guide shows you where to stand, when to arrive and what most visitors miss at Junagarh Fort, Bikaner, and fits the visit around the rest of your day.

More photographs

Nearby

Karni Mata Rampuria Havelis Fort Patwon ki Haveli Sam Sand Dunes Gadisar Lake Desert Camp Bhandasar Jain Temple