Beautiful Bikaner, a beacon of rich culture and heritage amidst harsh desert surroundings was founded in 1488, by the Rathore prince, Bika, the liveliest and most enterprising son of Rao Jodha of Marwar. The magnificent city was set directly on the ancient caravan routes, which linked west/central Asia and north India with the seaports of Gujarat. Due to the strategic location, it became a flourishing trade center of the medieval period. It was then know as Jangaldesh and was coveted by Gujar, Pratihars, Chauhans and the Bhatis.
The fortified town still preserves the aura of medieval times, as its geographical position left it virtually isolated from outside influences. The city is set on a slightly raised ground surrounded by a 7 kms. long embattled wall with five gateways. Within the ramparts is an amazing world of rich culture and heritage. It is studded with magnificent forts, places, lofty houses and mansion noted for their architectural grandeur.
The busy bazars of the town are a shoppers delight. It is also famous for delicacies like bhujias, papads and rasgullas which are popular all over the world. The city has emerged as a major wool producing center. It is popularly called as the 'camel country' and has a unique Camel Research Farm.
|
|
Getting there
Airways : Nearest airport Jodhpur (252 Km).
Railways: Bikaner is well connected with regular train services from Delhi, Jaipur Jodhpur, Bhatinda, Kalka and Haora. The gorgeous 'palace on Wheels' also covers Bikaner in its eight - day tour of Rajasthan.There are local and inter - state bus services for Bikaner.
Roadways: Regular bus services are available for Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Ajmer, Jaipur, Udaipur, Agra, Delhi etc.
Facts About Bikaner
Area : 18sq. km.
Altitude : 237 meters
Languages : Hindi, Rajasthani
Temperature : Summer Mean Max. 41.8C Mean Min. 28C Winter Mean Max. 23.2C Mean Min 10C
Rainfall : 44 Cm.
Clothing : Summer Light tropical or cotton Winter Woollen.
Exploring Bikaner!
Junagarh Fort
The impregnable fort was built Raja Rai Singh in 1593, one of the most outstanding generals of Emperor Akbar. It has the distinction of remaining unconquered. The impressing fort encircled by a moat ha many outstanding palaces, pavilions, and temples made of red sandstone and marble with kiosks and balconies, Gigantic columns, arches and graceful screens grace the places of the fort. The Suraj Pol or 'Sun Gate' is the main entrance to the formidable fort. Some of the interesting monuments within the ramparts are, Anup Mahal, Ganga Niwas and Rang Mahal or 'Palace of Pleasure'. The magnificent Har Mandir is the place of worship for the members of royal family. Chandra Mahal or 'Moon palace'is adorned with exquisite paintings on the lime plaster walls and the Phool Mahal or the 'Flower Palace', is decorated with inset mirror work. Other important sites are Durbar Hall, Gaj Mahdir, Sheesh Mahal or 'Mirror Chamber' and Karan Mahal etc.
The fort also has a museum with a rich collection of the artifacts of the region and several centuries old antiques.
Lalgarh Palace
The imposing red sandstone palace, on the outskirts of the city, was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh, in memory of his father Maharaja Lal Singh. This oriental fantasy was designed by Sir Swinton Jacob and is among the purest forms of Rajput palaces. It is a fine blend of an oriental façade and an occidental interior. The intricate dextrous carving on the red sandstone and the filigree work is indeed a hallmark of great craftsmanship. The palace exhibits a rich collection of old photographs and hunting trophies. The lush sprawling lawns adorned with beautiful bougainvilleas add to the beauty of the palace.
A part of the palace has now been converted into a luxury hotel and one part houses a museum called Sri Sadul Museum.
Rajasthan State Archives
The Rajasthan State Archives has its directorate at Bikaner. It has a rich collection of administrative records if the Mughal period, such as Persian Farmans, Nishans, Manshurs, Akhbarat, Vakil Report, Arzdasht, Kahatoot. There are also records like Bahiat, Pattas, Parwanas, Rukkas, chithiat etc., which were created during the administration of the princely states of Rajasthan.
For researchers and other users of archives, the department offers facilities like, microfilming, reference library and research room etc. A record gallery has been established for the tourists as well. It displays important documents of administrative social, economical and historical value.
Ganga Government Museum
It is one of the best museums in the State and has a rich treasure if antiquities from Harappan civilization, Gupta and Kushan era etc. A separate section for arts and crafts has a fine collection of paintings, weaponary, terracotta, pottery, carpets and coins etc. Are displayed.
Bhandeshwar Jain Temple
The 15'Th century shrine is the oldest existing monument of Bikaner. The temple is adorned with rich mirror work, decor, frescoes and gold leaf paintings.
Raj Ratan Bihari & Rasik Siromani Temple
The magnificent 19th century shrine was built by Ratan SinghJi and Sardar SinghJi. It is located Ratan Bihari Park and is built like a mansion.
Haveils
The Camel country teams with beautiful haveils and mansion of reputed business houses like, Kouharis, Rampuris, Vaidhyas and Dagas. These beautiful structures in red stone are ornately carved and noted for their architectural grandeur.
|
|
