Junagarh Fort is a magnificent fort located in the city of Bikaner, Rajasthan, India. The fort was built in the early 20th century by the rulers of the Bikaner state and is one of the few major forts in Rajasthan that is not built on a hilltop. It is also known as the Old Fort or Bikaner Fort.

History: The construction of the fort began in 1589 AD by Raja Rai Singh, a general in the army of Mughal Emperor Akbar. The fort was later expanded by the subsequent rulers of Bikaner. The fort has seen many battles and was besieged several times but was never captured.

Architecture: The fort is an impressive structure with a mix of different architectural styles including Rajput, Mughal, and Gujarati. It is made of red sandstone and marble and has 37 palaces, pavilions, and temples within its walls. The fort is surrounded by a moat and has two entrance gates.

Inside the fort, there are several beautiful palaces like Anup Mahal, Karan Mahal, and Phool Mahal. The palaces are adorned with intricate carvings, exquisite paintings, and stunning mirror work. The fort also houses a museum which displays a collection of rare manuscripts, weapons, costumes, and paintings.

Tourism: Junagarh Fort is one of the major tourist attractions of Bikaner and is visited by a large number of tourists every year. The fort is open to visitors from 10 am to 4.30 pm every day except for Fridays and public holidays. The entry fee for Indians is INR 50 and for foreigners, it is INR 300.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the fort and explore its various palaces and temples. The fort also offers a light and sound show in the evening which narrates the history of the fort in a captivating way.

Overall, Junagarh Fort is a must-visit destination for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to experience the grandeur of Rajasthan's royal past.