BIKANER
PLACES TO VISIT
Binaker’s history dates
back to 1488 A.D. when a Rathore Prince,Rao Bikaji- a dexdendant 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 trandormerd it to an impressive city, called Bikaner after the
founder’ name. 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.You can also visit camel breeding farms in Bikaner. 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.
Junagarh Fort
Built in 1593 A.D. by Raja Rai Singh,
a general in the army of Emperor Akbar, the fort is a formidable
structure encircled by a moat and has some beautiful palaces within.
These palaces, made in red sandstone and marble, make a picturesque
ensemble of courtyards, balconies, kiosks and windows dotted all
over the structure. The Suraj Pol or Sun Gate It is the main entrance
to the fort. Among the notable of these palaces are the exquisitely
beautiful Chandra Mahal or the Moon Palace with marvelous paintings,
mirrors and carved marble panels, and the Phool Mahal or Flower
Palace ornate with glass and mirror work. Other palaces worth visiting
are the Anup Mahal, Karan Mahal, Dungar Niwas, Ganga Niwas, Gaj
Mandir and Rang Mahal, Gigantic columns, arches and graceful screens
adorn the palaces from within.
Lal Garh Palace
The architectural masterpiece in red sandstone,
the palace was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in the memory of his
father Maharaja Lal Singh. The palace has beautiful latticework
and filigree work. Sprawling lawns with blooming bougainvillea and
dancing peacocks make it a not-to-be missed visual treat. Part of
the palace has been converted into a luxury hotel and a museum known
as Shri Sadul Museum. The museum covers the entire first floor of
the palace and houses well preserved old photographs and trophies
of wildlife. Timings 10.00 hr. to 16.30 hr. Entry fee Rs.5.00(closed
on Wednesday). It is the best Rajasthan museum, having one of the
richest collections of terra-cotta ware, weapons, miniature paintings
of Bikaner school and coins. The exhibits are splendid masterpieces
of Harappan civilization, Gupta and Kushan era and sculptures of
the late classical time. Timings 10.00 hr. to 16.30 hr. Entry fee
Rs.3.00(closed on Friday). The museum has a separate section displaying
exclusive arts and crafts of the region.
Gardens and Parks
A scenic rain water lake with numerous
beautiful shrines around and a spectacular avian variety. The lake
is an idyllic spot for outings. |
