 | Bikaner
retains the medieval grandeur that permeates the city's lifestyle. More readily
called the camel country, the city is distinguished for the best riding camels
in the world and hence boasts of having one of the largest Camel research and
breeading farm in the world. A camel besides doing transportation duties, also
works on wells. These are built on high plinths with slender minarets on each
of the four corners and can be noticed even from a distance. |
Modern
Bikaner is the result of the foresight of its most eminent ruler MaharajaGangaSingh
(1887 1943) whose reformative zeal set the pace for Bikaner transformation from
a principality to a premier princely state.
The strategic
location of Bikaner on the ancient caravan routes that came from West/Central
Asia made it a prime trade centre in those times. Bikaner stands on a slightly
raised ground and is circumscribed by a seven km long embattled wall with five
gates. The magnificent forts and palaces, created with delicacy in reddish-pink
sandstone, bear testimony to its rich historical and architectural legacy. Surging
lanes, colourful bazaars with bright and cheerful folks make Bikaner an interesting
experience to explore.
Sight
seeing of Bikaner
Junagarh:
 | It
is an unassailable fortress, which has never been conquered. Built in 1593 A.D.
by Raja Rai Singh, one of the most distinguished generals in the army of Emperor
Akbar, the fort is a formidable structure encircled by a moat. |
The
main entrance to the fort is Karan Pol [gate], that is east facing. Next to it
is the Suraj Pol meaning the sun gate. The fort situates in it some very magnificent
palaces like Anup Mahal, Ganga Niwas and Rang Mahal or palace of pleasure. The
Har Mandir is the majestic chapel for the royal family for worshipping their gods
and goddesses. These palaces, constructed in red sandstone and marble, make a
picturesque ensemble of courtyards, balconies, kiosks and windows dotted all over
the structure. The premises also houses a museum which is an array of a rich collection
.
Lalgarh
palace:
 | This
grand palace is an architectural masterwork in red sandstone, and was built by
Maharaja Ganga Singh Ji in the memory of his father Maharaja Lal Singh Ji in 1902.
Sir Swinton Jacob designed this oriental fantasy. This architecture is a fusion
of Rajput, Mughal and European architecture. The exterior contrasts dramatically
with the oriental interiors and amenities. The palace has beautiful latticework
and filigree work, which are hallmarks of a great craftsmanship. |
The Palace has an amazing collection of well-maintained paintings and hunting
trophies. Sprawling lawns with blooming bougainvillea and dancing peacocks make
a visual extravagance.
Bandheshwari
jain haveli:
Havelis are
ancient mansions of dwelling of the noble and wealthy. They are known for their
opulent life style and intricate carvings and craftsmanship along with sprawling
courtyards. Bikaner is full of such havelis and the notable amongst them belong
to Kotharis, Rampurias, Vaids and Dagas. To view these havelis the suggested route
is Gogagate, Daddhon Ka Chowk, Rangari Chowk, Assanion Ka Chowk, Mohta Chowk,
Binnanion Ka Chowk Daga Chowk, BK School and Jassuar Gate.
Gajner
wildlife sanctuary:
Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary is 32 kms from Bikaner.
The lush foliage of woods on the Jaisalmer road are a haven to nilgai, chinkara,
black buck, wild boar , flocks of imperial sand grouse and many more migratory
birds that houses the sprawling forest in the winters.It can be visited by jeeps
with the forest officers as the guides.
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