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As
the northern point of the triangle of desert cities, Bikaner neither
has the lakes nor expansive gardens. a major trade centre as it
stood on the ancient caravan route, it is the camel city where
thousands bring their animals for the Camel Fair. Marvel at these
marvelous ships of desert even as you are introduced to an entire
lifestyle built around them. The startling monuments and temples may
be present. But it is the camel that steals the and predominates in
fairs, festivals, shopping and cuisines where the camel delicacies
are the foremost.
How to Get Here :
Bikaner is very well connected via rail and road network with all
major cities of the country. By Air ,the nearest airport is Jodhpur
(252 km) and Bikaner is well connected with regular train services
from Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur. Well connected with luxury AC and
economical local state buses ply on the smooth National Highway11.
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Places to visit |
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Junagarh Fort
Built as an
unassailable fortress in 1593 A.D. by Raja Rai Singh, it has
never been conquered. Crossing the formidable structure’s
moat leads to the main entrance the Karan Pol. Next to it is
the Suraj Pol- the sun gate [gate] It opens to some wondrous
palaces like Anup Mahal, Ganga Niwas and Rang Mahal or
palace of pleasure. Constructed in red sandstone and marble,
these are replete with a splendorous ensemble of courtyards,
balconies, kiosks and windows. The Har Mandir the beauteous
chapel was for worshipping by the royal family. There is
also a museum with an array of objects inside. |
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Lalgarh Palace
The
architectural masterpiece in red sandstone, is an empyrean
fusion of Rajput, Mughal and European architecture and was
built by Maharaja Ganga Singh Ji in 1902. The western
exteriors leads into the dramatic contrasts of the oriental
interiors and amenities. It is redolent with beautiful
latticework and filigree work, which are hallmarks of a
great craftsmanship. Sprawling lawns with blooming
bougainvillea and dancing peacocks make a visual delight
even as the amazing collection of well-maintained paintings
enchant the connoisseur. |
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Havelis
The ancient
mansions of the noble and wealthy are a reverberant peep
into the languorous lifestyles. Often outrageously
ostentatious, these reflect the opulent life style in their
intricate carvings , craftsmanship and the sprawling
courtyards. Bikaner is rich such havelis and the notables
like the Kotharis, Rampurias, Vaids and Dagas should not be
missed. |
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Temples:
Bhandeswari Jain Temple
The
fifteenth century temple and is the oldest and is
resplendent with rich mirror work, frescoes and gold leaf
paintings. |
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Shiv Bari
Temple
Fortified by a
high wall the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple
has an enchanting wall panting of Nandi Bull facing the
Shiva Lingam. |
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Museums: Ganga
Singh Museum
Voted
unanimously as the best museum in the state, it displays a
rich array of archaeological discoveries from prehistoric
Harrapan and early Gupta period. Paintings, arts and craft,
terracotta, pottery, carpets, coins and ancient Rajput
weaponry are categorized in different sections. |
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Prachina
Museum
Located in the great Junagarh Fort it has a stunning
collection of royal costumes, textiles and accessories. 'Poshaks'
or the ladies ensemble displayed are perhaps the last
remnants of the traditional designing styles and
workmanship. changing cultural settings and the legacy can
glimpsed in its collection of family portraits of the former
rulers. |
Unique Shopping
Bikaner is synonymous
with exotic shopping and exquisite crafts can be unearthed in this
rustic desert paradise.
Mojari (Bikaneri style), rangi dupatta, Kundan work, wooden
antiques, Haldirams (Rasgulas, bhujia), Lacquer Bangles, carpet
making are just a few of the items. Camel leather shoes, camel
leather chairs, camel fur rugs, camel leather belts, bags, miniature
paintings on camel hides, beaded and sequined gorbandhs, lac bangles
etc. also are keepsakes of the glorious desert aura.
Shop for local goodies like the traditional Bikaneri bhujia and
Bikaner sweetmeats made from delicious camel milk. Stop by at a
local desert stall and sip camel milk before picking up lavishly
embroidered quilts, ghagras, camel leather goods and bright
paintings.It will give an insight into the glorious Bikaner culture
as local artisans weave local traditions and artistic skill into
local crafts.
Eating Out
Bikaner
offers a wide varieties like peanut butters, pancakes with maple
syrups as dishes for breakfast that cannot be f ound in any major
metro city of India. Daal Baati Churma with desert grown herbs
called “Kari Sangri” with Bajra Roti makes a perfect traditional
Rajasthani meal .Wash it down with buttermilk or all flavored Lassis
to complete the meal.Gram flour is a major ingredient and is used to
make some of the delicacies like Khata, Gatta ki Sabzi and Pakodi.
Powdered Lentils are used for Mangodi and Papad. Bajra and Corn are
used all over the state for preparations of Rabdi, Kheechdi, and
Rotis. Non-vegetarian food like “Laal Mass” or “Junglee Mass” (lamb
cooked in red hot chilli peppers) is sumptuous Restaurants meeting
all budget sizes can easily be discovered here.
Do's and
Dont's
- Don’t get
fleeced by the locals while shopping or looking for an
accommodation.
- Must get reservations before in hand as this city is packed from
October-March.
- It is a safe city for travelers especially for women but just be
aware.
- Camp safari is an experience so don’t miss it.
- Keep a check on the meter when hiring a cab.
- Try Masala Chai made of camel’s milk.
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