Junagarh Fort in Bikaner

If you have heard extensively about the grand forts of India and have visualized outstanding images of these historic marvels, Bikaner’s Junagarh Fort will fulfil your expectations most appositely. Built from 1589-1594 under the supervision of royal minister Karan Chand, the fort remains unconquerable till date. Boasting of strong fortification, the fort has marvellous palaces and temples crafted from red sandstone and marble and adorned with tiles, mirrors and other exquisite materials. Stone carvings done on red and golden sandstone reflect the unbeatable craftsmanship of the bygone era. The fort is described as a composite structure with architectural influences from styles like Rajasthani, Gujarati, Mughal and British.  
 
Numerous gateways, massive and remarkable in construction, like Karan Pol, Suraj Pol, Chand Pol and Daulat Pol greet the visitors. One can find 41 hand imprints of women who sacrificed their lives in the funeral pyres of their husbands (representing the now abolished practice of sati).  The most outstanding sections in the fort complex include Karan Palace (with intricately carved elegant balconies, stained glass windows and mirror patterns), Anup Palace (with inlaid mirror work, gold leaf paintings, Italian tiles and lattice screens, Chandra Palace, Badal Palace, Phool Palace and Ganga Palace. Royal mansions (havelis) with enthralling paintings extend the grandeur of the fort further.
 
Bikaner Cultural Centre and Museum within the complex is another must-visit site. Galleries dedicated to contemporary arts, ritual crafts, miniature paintings, wall paintings, textiles and costumes and cut glass items offer exciting expeditions. Doll houses, weapons and armoury, furniture, war drums and transportation modes are also on display. Har Mandir and Ratan Behari Temple are other attractions worth exploring.