Junagarh
Fort is a historic fort which is one of the most magnificent fort in
Rajasthan. It is a 986 meter long fort of pink sandstone which was
founded between 1588-1593 one of the distinguished general of Akbar.
The walls of the fort 37 palaces, pavilions and temples within it
which look very amazing. Its huge columns, arches, screens and
minarets and the wealth of carving and painting attracts visitors to
the fort.
The Gate
The main entrance of the fort is Suraj Pole (Sun Gate) which is
guarded by Jaimal and Patta, warriors mounted on painted stone
elephants. Within the walls of the fort there is a unique collection
of palaces, pavilions, courtyards and towers, which are all built by
successors of the rulers and are in a good condition.
The Karan
Mahal
It lies in the second courtyard and was built by Karan Singh to
commemorate an important victory over Aurangzeb. Over the Karan Mahal,
there is Gaj Mandir which was built as royal apartments. After that
Chatra Niwas was built which is a small pavilion on the roof decorated
with English plates embedded in the plastic walls.
Chandra
Mahal and the Phool Palace
The
Chandra Mahal and the Phool Palace are lavishly decorated with mirrors
and elaborative carved marble panels.
Anup
Mahal
The impressive Anup Mahal containing the Raj Tilak Coronation Hall
is decorated with ornamental lacquer work and opaque glass inlay.
Har Mandir
It is a royal temple which is dedicated to God Shiva where their birth
and wedding ceremonies are celebrated.
Ganga Niwas
Ganga Niwas is a beautiful audience hall which was added to the Fort
by Ganga Singh during 1887 – 1943.
Moon
Palace
Moon Palace or Chandra Mahal exhibits paintings, carved marble panels
and mirrors which are very wonderful. Also the moon palace has
paintings on lime plaster walls.
Fort Museum
There is a museum inside the fort which has a variety of exhibits
inside like jewellery, carpets, weapons, rare antiques etc.
Gaj Mandir
Gaj Mandir of Junagadh Fort exhibits silver chairs, a swing seat which
is very wonderful, ivory inlaid bed and polished wooden cupboards and
chests.
Other
Palaces inside the fort include Chetar Mahal and Chini Burj of Dungar
Singh. |