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Bikaner
The royal fortified city with a timeless appeal. Lying in the north
of the desert state, the city is dotted with many sand dunes. Bikaner retains the medieval splendor that pervades the city’s
lifestyle.
More popularly called the camel country , the city is renowned for
the best riding camels in the world. The ship of the desert is an
inseparable part of life here. Be it pulling heavy carts ,
transporting grains or working on wells, camels are the prime
helpers. The wells of Bikaner: an important source of water are
other attractions of the city. These are built on high plinths with
slender minareted towers on each of the four corners and can be
noticed even from a distance.
Binaker’s history dates back to 1488 A.D. when a Rathore Prince,Rao
Bikaji- a descendant of the founder of Jodhpur(1459 A.D.), Rao
Jodhaji, established his kingdom here. Rao Jodhaji had five sons but
Rao Bikaji was the most enterprising of them. Bikaji chose a barren
wilderness called ‘Jangladesh’ and transformed it to an impressive
city, called Bikaner after the founder’ name.
The strategic location of Bikaner on the ancient carvan routes that
came from West/Central Asia, made it a prime trade centre in the
times of the yore. 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 redish-pink
sandstone, bear testimony to its rich historical and architectural
legacy. Undulating lanes, colorful bazaars and bright and cheerful
folks make Bikaner and interesting experience.
Transportation
- Air
: Nearest Airport is Jodhpur 240 kms.
- Rail
:
Bikaner is connected by rail with Delhi, Jaipur and Jodhpur.
- Road
:
Bikaner to Delhi 949 km, Jaipur 316 km,Jodhpur 240 km & Jaisalmer
330 km.
What to see
Junagarh Fort: Revel in the architectural splendour, as you
take an intimate look at this imposing fort, built by Akbar's
contemporary Raja Rai Singh. Within the fort are thirty seven
palaces, pavilions Suraj Pol or the Sun Gate is the main entrance to
the fort. The palaces worth visiting are Chandra Mahal, Phool Mahal
and Karan Mahal. The palaces, exquisitely built in red sandstone and
marble are ornate with mirror work, carvings and paintings. An array
of kiosks and balconies embellish the fort at intervals, breaking
the monotony. A museum with valuable miniature paintings and rare
antiques is also located in the Junagarh Fort.
Lalgarh Palace: The magnificent fort in red sandstone, a
fascinating juxtaposition of the Oriental style and European luxury
that leaves you truly mesmerised. Designed by Sir Swinton Jacob for
Maharaja Ganga Singh almost -90 years ago, this is an extraordinary
monument. The palace has a billiards room, a library, a cards room
and a smoking room. Belgian chandeliers, cut – glass ornaments, oil
paintings and lamps add to its charm.
Bhandeshwar Jain Temples: (5 km) Beautiful 16th century Jain
temples, dedicated to the 23rd Tirthankar Parshvanathji.
Excursions
Bhand Sagar Temple 5 km, Camel Breeding Farm 10 km, Devi Kund 8 km,
Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary 32 kms, Deshnok's Karniji Temple 33 kms. |
