Junagarh Fort
Bikaner
Relive the Royal Glory
Bikaner is one of the three desert triangle cities, located in Thar desert and flanked by the Aravallis on the North-western side. This city was established by Rao Bika, second son of Rao Jodha of Rathor clan. The fort was originally called 'Chintamani' and was later renamed Junagarh or 'old fort'. The Fort of Junagarh was completed in 1594 and was expanded from time to time by 16 successive generations. The fort, therefore, is a mix of several architectural styles. Kaveri Bajaj introduces us to the restored splendour of this old fort.
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Red sandstone par excellence
A fine symmetry of building, staircase jharokha, kiosks and canopies all carved in red sandstone (dulmera)
An evening recreation spot
Karan Mahal with its Mughal style architecture. White Italian Carrara marble canopy abutting the pond with Jaaliwork red sandstone on windows.
Jaaliwork in white marble
Pillars and passageways of Karan Mahal decorated with fine Jaaliwork in white marble.
Doorways venerate gods
Phool Mahal, the oldest part of the palace, remembers the romance of Radha and Krishna. It was constructed by King Raja Rao Singh of Bikaner.
Elaborate archways and walls
The majestic crimsons and golds give a mystic and rich aura to palace walls.
The Darbar
The private audience hall in Anup Mahal with ornate wooden ceilings, inlaid mirrors, golden leafwork, Italian tiles, and fine lattice windows and balconies is a grand construction.
The Badal Mahal
The Badal Mahal has fresco paintings of Lord Krishna with his consort Radha, amid rain clouds. Mirrors, placed strategically, to reflect the rain clouds, enhance the effect.
Master craftsman at work
Beautiful and intricate walnut wood carving decorates the doorways.
Superb Tapestry woven on the walls
Extraordinary artwork in organic colours and gold work adorns the walls
Exquisite work on the ceiling
The Gods appear to have reawakened to peer into the beautiful hallways.
Someone just bid good bye
As I left the palace I had a feeling that someone was bidding goodbye from the shadows in the balcony...
