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Founded
in 1488, is a desert built on an elevation and
surrounded by a long embattled wall pierced by five
gates. A magnificent fort built between 1588 & 1593 by
Raja Raj Singh dominates the city. Sheer beauty in the
desert is the royal fortified city of Bikaner. Lying at
the northern tip of the famous triangle of the desert
cities, Bikaner stands on a slightly raised ground and
is circumscribed by a long embattled wall having five
entrance gates.
The genesis of Bikaner dates back to 1488, when a
Rathore prince, Rao Bikaji, son of Rao Jodhaji of
Jodhpur, chose a barren wilderness called 'Jangladesh'
and transformed it to a charming city called 'Bikaner',
after the founder's name.
Bikaner's forts, palaces and temples - magnificent
creations in red and yellow sandstone, are living
manifestations of its rich historical and architectural
legacy. One can feel the medieval aura pervading the
city's lifestyle. Not only do the traditions come alive
here in colorful bazaars and havelis, but Bikaner is
also famous for the best riding camels in the world. One
can witness gaily caparisoned camels at the spectacular
Camel Festival at Bikaner, held annually.
General Information
Altitude: 237 meters
Rainfall: 44 cm
Best Season: July-March
Temperature: Summer Max. 44 'C Min. 28 'C; Winter Max.
23.2 'C Min. 10 'C
STD Code: 0151
How to get there
Air
Nearest Airport is Jodhpur 240 km.
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.
In and Around
Junagarh Fort
Revel in the architectural splendour, 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.
It is 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 mesmerized. 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
It is a beautiful 16th century Jain temples, dedicated
to the 23rd Tirthankar Parshvanathji.
Other important temples of Bikaner include the
Lakshminathji, Ratan Bihariji, Shiv Bari, and Nagnechiji
temple. The Bhaironji Temple at Kodamdesar, about 40 km
from Bikaner, is another noteworthy temple.
Camel Breeding Farm
Acquaint yourself with the indispensable ship of the
desert at this camel research and breeding center, the
only one of its kind in Asia.
Devi Kund
This is a royal crematorium with cenotaphs of the house
of Bikaji Rathore. Many decorated Chhatris, built in the
memory of the Bika dynasty, offer splendid example of
the Rajput architecture.
Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary and Palace
Watch flocks of imperial sand grouse, as you wander
through the lush foliage of woods located on the
Jaisalmer road. Gajner is also home to nilgai, chinkara,
wild boar and black buck. Gajner Palace, a summer resort
of kings built on the beautiful lake along the
sanctuary, is a spot worth visiting.
Karni Mata Temple, Deshnoke
This 600 year old temple offers a haven to rats.
Devotees feed the rats, owing to the belief that these
rodents will be reincarnated as holy men. The entrance
archway of the temple is intricately carved in marble.
Kolayat
A sacred spot, dedicated to Kapil Muni. The temple here
is the venue for a fair in the month of Kartik (Oct.-
Nov.), attracting thousands of pilgrims. Kolayat is an
idyllic picnic spot as well.
Shiv Bari Temple
Built in the 19th century by Maharaja Doongar Singhji,
the temple is encircled by a high wall. Beautiful
paintings and a Nandi Bull facing the Shiva Lingam are
the attractions of the temple.
Havelis
An array of havelis, built in red stone and intricately
carved, embellish the city.
Kalibanga
The remnants of the pre-Harappan and Harappan
settlements have been found at this place in Hanumangarh
District. Surely of interest to archaeology enthusiasts |
