Junagarh Fort

Quick Facts
Area : Jaipur, Rajasthan
Languages : Rs. 250 (Museum)
Best Time To Visit : July-March

Jungadh Fort is located in Bikaner. One of the most imposing forts of Northern India and one of the finest of Rajput monuments. Raja Rai Singh, Akbar's contemporary started building Junagadh Fort in 1587. Often attacked, Junagadh is one of the few forts in India, which was never conquered. It consists of 37 palaces, pavilions and temples built by different Kings stand protected by massive ramparts and round towers.

Jungadh Fort has remained unconquered till date. This fort was built in 15th century by one of the most able and trusted generals of Akbar, Raja Rai Singh.

A high wall and deep moats surround the fort. The 37 bastions guard the fort and only two gates provide the access inside the fort. The Suraj Pol or the Sun Gate is the main entrance to the fort. The Jungadh 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.

Inside the fort is a profusion of 37 palaces, temples and pavilions that are marvels in red sandstone construction. The palaces have exquisitely carved windows, balconies, towers and Junagadh Fort inJ aipur kiosks.The mirrors, paintings and carved marble panels in the Moon Palace are a treat for eyes. The Phool Mahal or Flower Palace was adorned with glasses and mirrors. The victory over Aurangzeb was celebrated by building the Karan Mahal.

The multi-storeyed Anup Mahal was the governance chambers for the rulers. The beautifully maintained rooms now display the treasures of the Royal family. Also worth visiting are the Ganga Niwas, Dungar Niwas, Vijai Mahal, and Rang Mahal. The fort museum has an extensive collection of illuminated manuscripts, jewellery, jars and carpets, arms and weapons, treaties, decorations and the 'Farmans'.

What to See:

» Dargah Ajmer Sharief » Mayo College

» Ana Sagar Lake » Adhai-din-ka Jhonpra

» Taragarh Fort » Akbar´s Palace

Where to Stay:

» Mansingh Palace » Hotel Regency » Hotel Embassy

» Hotel Sahil » Phool Mahal Palace » Hotel Ambassador

» Roopangarh Fort » Hotel Chitvan

Festivals:
» Urs Ajmer Sharif

Shopping:
Just like any other city in Rajasthan, Ajmer is also a shopper's paradise. There are numerous items in Ajmer that you will find worth buying. The most famous shopping items of Ajmer includes Antiques, Ornaments, Gold and silver jewelry in contemporary designs, Bandhini (colorful tie-and-dye Saris), Embroidered Jodhpuri Jutis (footwear), Ittar (a special form of local perfume).

Accessibility:
By Air - Jaipur (132 km from Ajmer) is the nearest airport.
By Rail - Regular train services link Ajmer with all major cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Ahmedabad.
by surface - There is a well-connected network of buses that ply to and fro from Ajmer connecting it to major towns and cities in north India.

Suggested Itineraries : Best of North India Tour | Northern Royalty Premium Tours