| Sightseeing:
Visit the awesome 15th century, Junagarh Fort, the one fort said to have never been captured. It houses red sandstone and marble palaces like Anup Mahal, Ganga Niwas and Rang Mahal; a royal temple called Har Mandir, and a museum.
The beautiful Lalgarh Palace, is a blend of Rajput, Mughal and European architecture. It is has a collection of oil paintings and hunting trophies.
Visit the oldest monument of Bikaner, the 15th century Bhandeswari Jain Temple that is adorned with beautiful mirror work and frescoes.
Other temples are Shiv Bari, 6kms from Bikaner and dedicated to Lord Shiva and Laxmi Nath Temple, which is one of the oldest temples in Bikaner, and the very place where the city's foundation was laid. Also visit the Karni Mata Temple, in the Deshnok village, dedicated to the Goddess Durga, said to have performed many miracles. Devi Kund, the royal crematorium, is where you can see some fine cenotaphs (chhatris) erected in the memory of the rulers from the Bikaji dynasty.
To get a glimpse into the state's rich historical past, pay a visit to the museums. Ganga Singh Museum houses many artefacts right from the Harappan civilisation to the Gupta and Rajput rule. The Prachina Museum within the Junagarh Fort show-cases royal costumes and accessories, while the Sadul Museum is another museum in the Palace.
Excursions:
The famous Camel Research Farm is a one of its kind breeding center in Asia.
The beautiful Gajner Palace and the Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary and the holy place of Kolyatji are other places to see.
Other Activities:
Shop for some Bikaneri style mojaris (camel leather shoes), colourful dupattas and antiques, especially made of carved wood. Try the local cuisines such as the spicy meat curries, different types of rotis, pickles, and the famous Bikaneri bhujia.
Tourism Info:
Tourist Reception Centre
RTDC Hotel Dhola Maru, Bikaner
Tel: 91-151-2544125
Founded in 1488, the city of Bikaner forms the third important destination in the desert triangle, along with Jodhpur and Jaisalmer. It is Rajasthan's fourth largest city, situated in the Thar Desert.
Popularly addressed as the camel country, it is a city surrounded by
sand dunes. The imposing Junagarh fort and many palaces within it,
contribute to its timeless beauty. |
