Location: Rajasthan
Founded by : Rao Bikaji
Best Season : Between October & March
Languages : Rajasthani, Hindi, English
Getting there : The Indian Railways connect Bikaner
with cities like Delhi, Calcutta, Agra, Jaipur, Allahabad
and other major cities. It is also covered by Palace
on Wheels. Jodhpur is the nearest airport.
History
Founded in 1486 AD, Bikaner derives its name from the Rathod Prince, Rao Bikaji. His father Rao Jadhoji challenged him to build an empire of his own and thus the royal walled city of Bikaner came into existence. Bikaner has successfully preserved its royal aura through the ages that attracts countless tourists across the world.
Places of interest
Junagarh Fort : Built in 15th century, the imposing Junagarh Fort is encircled by a moat and has some beautiful palaces within. Visit the fort and experience its splendor by yourself.
Lal Garh Palace : The architectural masterpiece in red sandstone is sure to leave you spellbound. It has a museum that houses well-preserved trophies and old photographs.
The Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum : Visit the museum and sample the richness of the culture of Rajasthan. It has the richest collections of terracotta ware, weapons, miniature paintings and splendid masterpieces of Harappan civilization.
Festive Fun
The Camel Festival : Take a break from the daily life and enjoy a spectacular event of camel performances including races, dances, acrobatics and milking.
Gangaur Festival : Grand processions of the deities accompanied by dancing women are a treat to the eyes.
Excursions
Bhandasar Jain Temple : Explore the oldest surviving monuments that are adorned with intricate mirror work and gold leaf paintings.
Camel Research Form : Spend some time with the ship of desert at Camel Research Farm- one of its kind in the whole world.
Devi Kund : Built in the memory of the Bika dynasty rulers, several ornamented cenotaphs make it a distinct place to visit. Most impressive among them is Maharaja Suraj Singh's cenotaph, which is built of white marble.
Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary : Experience the best of wildlife at the lush foliage of woods that are haven to nilgai, chinkara, black buck, white boar and flocks of imperial sand grouse.