Palaces of Junagarh Fort, Bikaner

Junagarh Fort at Bikaner encompasses several places each one surpassing other in magnificence. The fort was constructed between 1588 and 1593 by Raja Rai Singh, a general in the army of Mughal emperor. The subsequent Maharajas have added luxurious suites to this palace. 

The palaces within the fort are on the southern side and make a picturesque ensemble of towers, courtyards, balconies and windows. A major feature of fort and palaces is the superb quality of stone carving.

Karan Mahal, built in 1680 classic Mughal style was is covered with rich Rajput elaboration of Mughal style in terms of the purity of white marble and stucco design. 

Anup Mahal has magnificent decorative art work in this palace with gold vermilion varnished work. There are beautiful motifs treated completely in gold and by mirrors and mirrors or glass mosaic. It also has one throne where the ruler would sit and meet his foreign guests and highly placed officials. Old and antique carpets adorn the floor. 

Gaj Mandir has walls that are covered with elaborate Mughal niches and panels enclosed by a framework of marble plaster slabs, which are carved into various Mughal open-work floral designs behind which mirrors have been placed.

Badal Mahal is stylized blue-and-white clouds, and it reflects the longing for rain in an arid area. Phool Mahal is the oldest part of the palace that has decoration with motifs of trays, flower vases. Inside the rooms the interior walls are decorated with stucco work and glass inlay works.