Junagarh Fort, Bikaner

The fort was formerly called Chintamani and was renamed Junagarh or "Old Fort" in the early 20th century when the ruling family moved to Lalgarh Palace. It is one of the few major forts in Rajasthan not built on a top of hill. It is an incontrovertible fort of Rajasthan, a fort that has never been conquered, though it has been attacked many times. Junagarh Fort of Rajasthan is an impressive monument of Rajasthan, with huge towers and battlements for defence.

This attractive piece of architecture was constructed between 1588 -1593 AD by Raja Rai. He was rewarded for his bravery in battle by revenue from parts of Gujarat and Burhanpur. He used these funds in the construction of the Junagarh Fort.

The Junagarh fort of Rajasthan is a formidable structure surrounded by a moat and has some beautiful palaces within. These palaces, completed in red sandstone and marble, make a picturesque ensemble of courtyards, balconies, kiosks and windows dotted all over the structure.

The Junagarh Fort has defied all the attacks except for the brief stint by Kamaran who captured the fort but was unable to retain his victory more than 24 hours. The mirrors, paintings and carved marble panels in the Moon Palace are a treat for eyes. The Phool Mahal or Flower Palace was decorated with glasses and mirrors. The triumph over Aurangzeb was celebrated by building the Karan Mahal.