Take a halt at Junagarh Fort
The magnanimous structure around which the city of Bikaner grew up, Junagarh Fort had its foundations built in the year 1478, when it was called Chintamani. The present structure was built in the year 1589 and it was in the 20th-century, when it was renamed as the Junagarh Fort, also hailed as the Old Fort. This fort is the epitome of architectural expertise and it represents the different cultures of the various rulers it has seen. The palaces within the fort, gardens, balconies and kiosks, all speak of the glory of the days gone by!
Make sure to visit the Lalgarh Palace
Lalgarh Palace was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner, between the year 1902 to 1926 and was known to be his abode, after the Junagarh Fort. Rich with elaborate wings and giant corridors decorated with paintings, Lalgarh Palace speaks of the enormous wealth we Indians had, for centuries! Now, a part of this prestigious palace has been turned into a luxurious heritage hotel, which offers you a stay so regal, that it will echo in your mind throughout your life.
Don't skip out on the Rampuria Haveli
Constructed in the 15th century by Balujee Chalva for a wealthy merchant family, the Rampuria Haveli oozes with exquisite designs and its patterns showcase the reason why it is considered to be an architectural masterpiece! The Dulmera red sandstone exterior coupled with aesthetically rich insides of this bewitching haveli, makes for a marvellous experience to indulge in.
Check out Gajner Palace
Another big name in the famed heritage hotels of the country, Gajner Palace is one of the most extraordinary locales, you will ever set your eyes on! Located 30 km from Bikaner, this gorgeous palace in the vicinity of the Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary, is of the most sought-after properties. Built in red sandstone in the proximity of Gajner Lake, this arresting site will make you want to stay back a little longer!
Take a tour of Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary
Once a hunting ground for the Maharaja of Bikaner, Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary houses a single lake where all the animals can be spotted, quenching their thirst. So if you're a photographer and are looking to frame some stellar visuals of fauna, then this is where you have to be. It is one of the most well-liked wildlife sanctuaries in the state and it is home to a variety of animals like deer, antelope, nilgai, chinkara, blackbuck and desert foxes, amid others.
Snap the beauteous Devi Kund Sagar
With each chhatri dedicated to each ruler of the Bikaji dynasty, Devi Kund Sagar is a crematorium that contains the graves of all the members of the royal family. It started with the founder of Bikaner, Rao Bikaji and is one of the most enchanting locales the city has to offer, in terms of its architecture and the serenity around! A mix of Rajput and Mughal style of architecture, made in red sandstone in the earlier years and then in white marble, you must pull up at Devi Kund Sagar at least once.
Spot vultures of different kinds at Jorbeed
One of the largest dumping yard for carcass in the country, you can spot vultures of different kinds at Jorbeed, that have vanished from the cities! Around 12 km from Bikaner, Jorbeed made its place on our list because it comes with sights that you will rarely find anywhere in the country. An umpteen variety of eagles and other birds can also be spotted here along with occasional spotting of the yellow-eyed pigeons. A haven for all you birders, Jorbeed is also full of desert foxes and chinkaras as well!
Knock Knock
Known as the biggest camel farm of Asia and for its intricately carved jharokhas, that can be spotted throughout the city, Bikaner is a sight for sore eyes and will make you want to travel back in time! While a trip from Jaipur to Bikaner is the ideal plan for you to pick up, do wait for the COVID-19 tallies to recede, before heading out.
