Bikaner
Area : 38.1 sq km
Population : 415,000 (approx.)
This sprawling desert city of Rajasthan is an eye-catching site of
traditional Rajasthani attractions, well-fed camels and citadels. The city
was founded in 1488 by a descendant of the founder of Jodhpur named Rao
Bhikaji. The city is surrounded by high fortifications comprising a
seven-kilometre long wall which encircles the old city and has five
entrances. All these were constructed in the 18th century. 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.
Places to see :
» Junagarh Fort - Built by Rai Singh between the
period of 1588 and 1593, the fort has a 986-metre-long wall with 37
bastions, a moat and two entrances. It towers prominently over the city and
can be seen from a distance. Its most unusual feature is that it was built
at ground level and not on high ground. The fort and its palaces are
profusely decorated with magnificent stone carvings. The major buildings
within the fort include the Anup Mahal, Diwan-e-Khas, Hawa Mahal, Badal
Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Phool Mahal, Rang Mahal, Dungar Mahal, and Ganga
Mahal.
» Lalgarh Palace - Built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in
memory of his father, the Lalgarh Palace is a an architectural masterpiece
in red sandstone. It is situated 3 kms north of Bikaner city. Designed by
Sir Swinton Jacob, the palace has beautiful latticework and filigree work in
sandstone. The palace is quite imposing with overhanging balconies and
delicate latticework. Peacocks and blooming bougainvillea in the garden
welcome the visitor to the palace.
»
Temples - The temple of Karni Devi is the most important one as it is
dedicated to the family deity of the royal house of Bikaner. The Bhandeshwar
and Sandeshwar Jain Temples are dedicated to the 23rd Jain Tirthankara,
Parsavnathji. Built in the 16th century by two brothers whose names they
bear, these temples are remarkable for their colourful murals and the
prolific use of gold leaf and mirrors.
How to reach :
» By Air - Jodhpur is the nearest airport. The
airport is easily accessible by road.
» By Rail - Bikaner has number of train links to
connect it with the major cities of India.
» By Road - It is well linked with the big and small
cities of India by the national highways and other roadways.
Jodhpur, the second largest city of Rajasthan is one of the most loved
tourists destinations in India. It stands on sandstone hills and is
surrounded by a strong wall of 10 kms. Rajput chief Rao Jodha founded
Jodhpur in 1459.
Places to see :
» Mehrangarh Fort - Built by Maharaja Man Singh, it
is a fine example of military might of Rajputs. The fort is spread over 5
kms.
» Umaid Bhawan - This architectural wonder is made
of sandstone. Today, it has been converted into a museum and a hotel.
»
Jaswant Thade - It was built in the memory of Maharaja Jaswant II. Many
tourists flock to his shrine to pay their homage.
» The Mahamandir Temple - Built in 1812, this
striking temple is an excellent example of cutwork done on stone.
» Giridkot and Sardar Market - These are famous
markets of the city to buy ethnic items.
How to reach :
The nearest airport of Jodhpur is Udaipur. The airport is well connected to
Jodhpur by roadways. Trains are available from Delhi and Mumbai to Jodhpur.
It is also well connected by the national highways and other small roadways.
