Bikaner is a city that has itself been constructed around a massive fort. The forts in and around the city make for grand sights. Besides being architecture marvels, these structures reflect the rich history of the land, of the various wars waged here and the heroes who fought to defend the territory. We have compiled a list of the forts in Bikaner to check out the next time you are in the city.
Forts in Bikaner
1. Junagarh Fort
One of the most massive forts in all of India, the entire city of Bikaner had been constructed around the Junagarh Fort. The fort is so massive that it boasts 37 pavilions within its compound. It was constructed in 1593 by Raja Rai Singh, who moved in with his family from Lalgarh Palace.
The architectural style is Indo Saracenic. The fort has withstood most invasions by foreign forces. Even Kamran, a conqueror, who laid siege to the fort could only capture it for 24 hours before it was taken back.
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- Fort Timings: 10 am to 4:30 pm
- Fort Address: Junagarh Fort Road, Bikaner
2. Amber Fort
Amber Fort was built by Man Singh I, ruler of the Kachwaha clan, along with the help of Mughal Army General. The fort boasts of magnificent structures such as the Ganesh Pole, Jai Mandir, and Sukh Niwas. The entire fort is dotted with beautiful gardens and large chamber rooms.
All the structure in Amber Fort represents opulence and architectural genius. The Sukh Niwas Palace has water flowing within its walls, mimicking air conditioning. The Sheesh Mahal is known for the massive collection of mirrors it has.
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- Fort Timings: 8 am to 5:30 pm
- Fort Address: Devisinghpura, Amer
3. Dundlod Fort
Dundlod Fort is located in the Shekhawati Area in Nawalgarh. The fort was erected in the year 1750 AD by Kesari Singh. The architecture of the fort is a beautiful blend of Rajputana and Mughal styles. The interiors of the fort are lined with traditional Rajasthani and European art.
Dundlod is a beautiful village in the Shekhawati, 7 kilometres from Nawalgarh. The Dunlod Fort was constructed by Kesari Singh in 1750 AD. While the exteriors combine the Rajput and Mughal styles of architecture, the interiors of the Fort are done up using traditional Rajasthan and European artifacts.
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- Fort Timings: 9 am to 7 pm
- Fort Address: Dundlod, Rajasthan
4. Chittor Fort
Chittor Fort is the most famous fort in all of Rajasthan. Chittor Fort is spread across 700 acres of land and its history goes back as far as the Mauryan Empire. The Mewars of Rajasthan later made the fort their home and made several renovations.
The fort has seen many sieges and attempts at conquest. The famous conqueror Alauddin Khilji laid siege to the fort in 1303 in an attempt to capture Queen Padmavati, whose beauty was unrivalled. The men of Chittor fought till their deaths and the women committed the act of self-immolation.
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- Fort Timings: 6 am to 8 pm
- Fort Address: Chittor Fort Road, Chittorgarh
5. Taragarh Fort
The Taragarh Fort was constructed in 1354 on a massive hillside. The fort’s marvellous architecture attracts a massive footfall every year. The fort is constructed at multiple levels on the hillside, each part serving a purpose of its own.
There are six gates and a huge reservoir made entirely of stone. The fort houses a famous cannon called the Garbha Gunjan.
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- Fort Timings: 9 am to 7 pm
- Fort Address: Nahar ka Chauhatta, Bundi
Every fort in Bikaner tells a spectacular story of stoicism, valour, and glory. Even if you are not a history buff, a visit to these forts will leave you with a sense of awe. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to plan a fun trip exploring the forts of Bikaner.