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Bikaner
is an oasis town among scrubs and sand dunes. Lying in the north of
the desert state, the city is dotted with scores of sand dunes. Also
known as the camel country, the city is known best for riding camels
and hence boasts of having one of the largest camel researches and
breeding farm in the world. Bikaner still retains a medieval air and
is house to over 300 havelis. Vacationing in Bikaner will be
astounding experience.
Founded in 1848 AD by Rao Bika ji, the imposing palaces, the
beautifully and richly sculptured temples of red and yellow sand
stones display some of the most beautiful creation of the Rajput
civilization. It was formerly the capital of the princely state of
Bikaner . Bikaner is also famous for its ‘ Bikaner i Bhujia’ as well
as for its handicrafts and leather articles.
Climate
Summer: Max: 41.0 degree C; Min.: 28 degree C
Winter: Max: 23 degrees C; Min: 5 degrees C
Fair & Festivals
Cattle & Camel Fair (next 21 - 22 January, 2008): Cattle and Camel
fair is held in January and November.
How to reach
Air: The nearest airport is Jodhpur 235 km.
Train: Bikaner has railway connections to several
destinations including Jaipur, Jodhpur, Delhi, Amritsar, Chandigarh
and Haridwar.
Road: There are frequent express buses available, but if one
wants to drive down to Bikaner , it is one day's drive from Jaipur.
PLACES TO SEE
Junagarh Fort
Built in 1593 A.D by Raja Rai Singh, one of the most distinguished
Generals in the army of Emperor Akbar, it is an unassailable
fortress, which has never ever been conquered. In it, one will find
some very magnificent palaces like Anup Mahal, Ganga Niwas and Rang
Mahal or palace of pleasure.
These palaces are made of some of the most exclusive sandstones. It
also houses a museum, which has an array of rich collection. Karan
Pol [gate] is the main entrance of the fort. Next to it is the Suraj
Pol meaning the sun gate.
Prachina Museum
This museum is located inside the Junagarh Fort. It is dedicated to
royal costumes, textiles and accessories. It is an absolute delight
for art and craft lovers. It also houses ancient courtly culture
along with other royal mannerisms as well.
Bhandeswari Temple
It is a fifteenth century temple and is the oldest monument of
Bikaner . This temple is the oldest shrine of Bikaner and is adorned
with mirror work, frescos and some beautiful gold leaf paintings..
Havelis
Come and explore ancient mansions during vacations. They are known
for the wealthy and noble dwellings. They have some of the most
intricate details that one could ever find, along with sprawling
courtyards. Bikaner is full of havelis and to view these havelis
take the following route:
Gogagate, Daddhon Ka Chowk, Rangari Chowk, Assanion Ka Chowk, Mohta
Chowk, Binnanion Ka Chowk Daga Chowk, BK School and Jassuar Gate.
Lal Garh Palace This palace is a beautiful work of art, made
fully of red sandstone. It was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh Ji in
the memory of his father Maharaja Lal Singh Ji in 1902. The Oriental
Fantasy was designed by Sir Swinton Jacob. The architecture is a mix
of Rajput, Mughal and European style. The palace has some beautiful
latticework, which are hallmarks of a great craftsmanship. It also
houses in it an amazing collection of well-maintained paintings and
hunting trophies. Sprawling lawns with some beautiful bougainvillea
flowers and dancing peacock make for an amazing visual experience.
HOTELS
Bikaner offers varied ranges of hotels. You would be provided
from luxury hotels to cheap hotels
Luxury Hotels
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Laxmi Niwas
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Lalgarh Palace
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Raj Vilas
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Bhanwar Niwas
Budget Hotels
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Bhairon Vilas
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Padmini Niwas
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Camel Man Guesthouse
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Harasar Haveli
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