|
|
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 citys 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.
Binakers 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.
|
Altitude : 237 mtrs.
Best Season : Oct - March
Climate : Summer
Mean Max. 41.8 'C
Mean Min. 28.0 'C
Winter Mean Max. 23.2 'C
Mean Min. 5.0 'C
Clothing : Summer light tropical or light Winter Woolen. |
|
Distances
from Bikaner : |
|
Delhi |
470 Kms. |
|
Agra |
665 Kms. |
|
Ajmer |
278 Kms. |
|
Alwar |
472 Kms. |
|
Bharatpur |
542 Kms. |
|
Jaipur |
361 Kms. |
|
Jaisalmer |
355 Kms. |
|
Jodhpur |
256 Kms. |
|
Mt. Abu |
569 Kms. |
|
Ranthambhore |
537 Kms. |
|
|
|
