Junagarh Fort

Junagarh Fort is a red sandstone fortress in Bikaner that sits on flat ground and combines palaces, temples, and courtyards within a large walled enclosure. The complex displays carved stonework, marble inlay, and painted decoration across halls and corridors arranged around several central courtyards.

Raja Rai Singh began building the fortress in 1589 and it was completed within five years. Later rulers added new palaces and sections, expanding the site over several generations.

Today's layout leads through one chamber after another, each named after a ruler or a concept, and visitors walk a fixed route. People follow the path through rooms lined with mirrors, gilded work, and painted panels that show how wealth was displayed in courtly life.

The museum inside displays weapons, manuscripts, and paintings from the royal collection and is reached through a main entrance gate. Visitors walk through several buildings and courtyards, and comfortable shoes are helpful as there are many staircases to climb.

The fortress was built on flat ground unlike most Indian forts that sit on hills, and it remained unconquered throughout its history except for one single day. That one day occurred during an internal dispute and not through an outside siege.