Cultural Paradise and travellers Heaven, Bikaner, the Desert city is located in the northern region of Rajasthan.Rao Bikaji, the first son of Maharaja Rao Jodha, founded Bikaner in 1488. Renowned for producing the world’s best riding camel, Bikaner is a home of many ancient monuments.
This monuments not like shows the glorious past of this place but also reflects the architectural uniqueness of ancient Rajasthan.
Places to Visit
Here is a list of places that you should not avoid during your next trip to Bikaner.
Junagarh Fort
In 1588, Raja Rai Singh constructed this magnificent fort around which the city Bikaner has developed. A combination Rajput, Gujrati and Mughal architectural style, Junagarh fort is decorated with carved stones, marbles and paintings.
Among its 37 palaces multi storied Anup Mahal, gold leaves covered Badal Mahal, Beautiful Chandra Mahal, mirror decorated Phool Mahal deserves a special mention. Over all with its lavish decoration, seven huge entrance and unique Hindu and Jain temples it’s aptly called as “a paradox between medieval military architecture and beautiful interior decoration.”
Lalgarh Palace
In the year 1902 Maharaja Ganga Singh built this architectural marvel. This red sandstone palace is famous for its magnificent pillars, elaborate fireplaces, Italian colonnades, filigree and sophisticated latticework. The palace has now been converted into a heritage hotel. Its massive rooms, warm hospitality and the delicious tradition food will defiantly make your trip extra ordinary.
Laxmi Niwas Palace
British architecture Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob built this ancient structure during the region of Maharaja Ganga Singh. This indo-Saracenic architectural monument, former residence of royal families, has now been converted into a luxury hotel.
Deshnok Karni Mata Temple
Popularly known as Nari Mata Mandir draws visitors from across the country for blessings. This famous temple of Rats is located 30 kilometres away from Bikaner. Influenced by Mughal style this temple is 600 years old.
Jain Temple
Bhandasar Jain Temple, one of the oldest temple of Bikaner, is dedicated to the 5th Tirthankar Sumatinathji. Named after a wealthy merchant, Bhandasa Oswal, this temple is made of red sandstone, marble and decorated with gold Leaf.
Gajner Palace and Wildlife Sanctuary
Spread over 6000 acres on the shores of a lake, this jewel of Thar Desert was completed by the Maharaja Ganga Singh.Once served as a hunting and relaxing lodge of the royal families, Gajner Palace has now been turned into a heritage hotel.
Apart from the marble this place is also famous for its surroundings. During the winter season many migratory birds visit the lake. Among the animals wild fowls, nilgai, chinkara and wild boar can be seen here.
Best Time to Visit
As the city is located in the desert area, its climate remains hot throughout the year. Still travelers can explore this city from the month of October to March. During this time of the year the temperature is comfortable.
How to Reach
Jodhpur Airport is the closest airport to Bikaner, which is 251 kilometres away. Bikaner is well connected by bus with the other major cities of Rajasthan. Air condition, non-air condition and deluxe busses are available for your comfortable journey. By train you can come either to Bikaner Junction or Lalgarh Railway station, both of them are only 6 kilometres away from the main city. Either, you can choose Palace on Wheels which is the famous luxury train offering five -star opulent services onboard the train.
Find here more about Palace on Wheels
- Cost of Palace on Wheels train
- Palace on Wheels train journey
- Schedule of Palace on Wheels train
- Luxury Coaches of Palace on Wheels train
- Palace on Wheels train route
- Palace on Wheels train booking
Travelers Tips
- Carry heat protection and drinking water during your day outing.
- Do carry your camera, some of the spots have amazing views to click.
- You can treat your taste buds in the nearby local restaurants.
- To help you, guides are available in all the major spots.
Bikaner has all the possible reasons to become your next tour destination. Visit this amazing land to witness the glorious history of Rajasthan.
Top Attractions to Visit through Palace on Wheels
