Bikaner - Introduction
Bikaner, the desert city of Rajasthan (India's north-western province) is an eye-catching site of well-fed camels and citadels. Being near to Delhi, it had to withstand the worst of Mughal invasions during earlier times. The exotic camel safaris, its gorgeous forts and the worship of thousands of holy rats at Mata Kali temple are some of the most interesting aspects of Bikaner. The camel festival held in the month of January is also an event worth witnessing if one wants to get the actual color of the place.
Heritage Hotels of Bikaner
Heritage hotels of Bikaner give perfect royal treatment to their clients with all the modern facilities in tandem. Homes of the erstwhile gentry of this region, the buildings have been built keeping in mind the geographical necessities of the area.
Hotel Basant Vihar Palace
Basant Vihar Palace was built because of a "fanciful desire" of Maharaj Sri Ganga Singh Ji, a connoisseur of architecture and one blessed with an artistic sense. It was designed by him to be a separate pleasure garden adjoining the Zanana Bagh (Royal Ladies' Garden) of Lalgarh Palace. The palace was converted into a heritage hotel in the year 1993 by the House of Bikaji, a famous industrial group.
Bhanwar Niwas
Rising high over the bustling streets of Bikaner stands Bhanwar Niwas, the most magnificent haveli of the city. The haveli belongs to Rampuria family and was commissioned by late Seth Bhanwarlalji Rampuria in the year 1927. The interiors and exteriors of the haveli is a harmonious blend of Indian and European architectural styles. Now converted into a heritage hotel, the Bhanwar Niwas offer its guests an experience of the lost grandeur and flamboyance of Rajputana.
Hotel Lalgarh Palace
Lalgarh Palace was one of the most magnificent palaces built during the second half of 19th century in India. One of the most impressive palaces constructed during the last half of the nineteenth century, the building defies the bleak and rugged reality of the harsh Thar Desert around Bikaner. Sir Swinton Jacob, a renowned architect was commissioned to build this palace and no cost was cut in completing the dream of Maharaja Ganga Singh. Construction of the palace started in the year 1896 and completed in the first decade of 20th century.
Karni Bhawan Palace
Built by Maharaja Dr. Karni Singh Ji of Bikaner as his private residence, this opulent palace located in the Bikaner city is a major heritage hotel today. It is a royal retreat surrounded by sprawling lawns and near to major tourist attractions like the Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, the temples and bazaars, and the camel-breeding farm. Authentic Marwari cuisine and continental meals are served in the restaurant attached to the hotel.
Mann Bilas
Maan Bilas is a well decorated and comfortable hotel situated within the prestigious and historic Lalgarh Palace. Nine double rooms designed for comfort and equipped for convenience, await guests. Replete with modern facilities including cable TV, personal refrigerators and direct dialing telephone facilities, Maan Bilas is a preferred overnight stopover for vacationers headed for Gajner. One can even relax in tranquility on the lawns overlooking Lalgarh Palace or explore the bustling city of Bikaner.
Gajner Palace
Gajner Palace was built by Maharaja Sir Ganga Singh Ji of Bikaner to be used as a hunting resort for the royal family and guests. Built over an area of 6000 acres, the palace complex houses its own sanctuary housing endangered species. More than 100 species of the migratory birds flock the lake by the palace during the winter months. The palace has been redone meticulously to revive the Raj days and capture the grandeur of kingly Rajasthan.
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