Junagarh fort is one of the most impressive fort complexes in India. Junagarh fort was built by Raja Rai Singh in 1588 AD. Junagarh fort is one of those few forts that are not built on a hilltop. The fort complex consists of palaces, courtyards, pavilions and balconies. The walls palaces etc. are ornamented with carved stones, marbles, paintings and inlaid semi-precious stones. Each palace in the Junagarh fort complex was built by a different ruler over the centuries.
One of the most impressive structures in the Junagarh fort complex is the Anup Mahal. Its elaborately decorated walls are covered in red and gold with colored glass inlay. The Anup Mahal is a multi-storied palace and was the governance chambers for the rulers. Its beautifully decorated rooms display the valuables of the royal family. In the Badal Mahal or the clouds palace White plaster pillars are decorated in delicate patterns and covered with gold leaves. The Badal Mahal or Cloud Palace's walls are painted with a fresco of rain clouds. In the rain fresco photograph there is a painting of Krishna and Radha surrounded by the blue cloud motifs.
The Camel Festival is a grand celebration dedicated to the ship of the desert, the mighty Camel, who survives in the harsh weather conditions of Bikaner since the time the city was founded by Rao Bika Ji. The event was initiated by the Department of Tourism, Art and Culture of the Government of Rajasthan. It is held every year to rejoice their contributions that have proven to be essential for the major activities of the locals that include routine work, transportation and serve as an integral part of the Indian Security system commissioned to secure the Indo-Pak border. The camel is not just some mammal here but is the lifeline of Bikaner, and the festival is only a small way to celebrate the ship of the desert and thank them for their contributions to our lives.
On the occasion of the festival, the camels are dressed in bright and colourful ornaments and bridles. The burst of vibrant colours in the golden dunes is a sight that cannot match any other celebration in the world. Camel rides and camel safaris attract tourists from all over the world. These one of a kind rides over the gold dunes is an experience worth cherishing. The safaris prove to be the best way to explore Bikaner, especially under the evening skies watching the beautiful sunset from the dunes. The festival also has many competitions for the camels and their owners like the Camel dance, Camel decorations, and Camel Fur cutting.
The Bikaner camel festival has become one amongst the most colorful and energetic festivals in the country, being made a tiny desert town of Bikaner a compulsory visit place for the tourists. The charming fire dance will also add more glamour to the festival. Their shows and skills are nothing but stunning. Further, there is a soothing sensation you get from the melodious folk music that would surely mesmerize almost all those who hear it completely. When it comes to amazing puppet shows, the colorfully dressed puppet dolls will narrate the fascinating local folklores. The Bikaner camel festival would also give you an excellent opportunity to be indulged into the unique sweat meats made by the camel milk. The local dishes will certainly appetize each and every food lovers. Look out for the stalls present in the markets that offer exquisite jewelry, pottery, handicrafts and rare delights as well.
Bikaner is located in close proximity to Delhi, Agra, Kolkata and Jaipur, it is accessible by flight, road or even rail from anywhere without any trouble. Nal Airport is found just 13 Km from the west of Bikaner. Moreover, Highways such as NH 11, 15 as well as 89 will link Bikaner with several other major cities of India
