In 1489 AD, an innovative Rathore prince named Rao Bikaji found a barren piece of land named Jangladesh, which he transformed into a magnificent city called Bikaner. Deliberately situated on the ancient caravan routes linking west/central Asia to the seaports in Gujrat, Bikaner was a wealthy trading town in the medieval period. Popularly known as the 'Camel Country', this desert city is mostly well-known for its camels. In fact, camels form an integral part of the life and culture of Bikaner. January is one of the busiest months when many tourists travel to Bikaner to be a part of the well-known annual camel festival.
The sights and sounds of this historic city create a harmony and music of their own which will leave you mesmerized and make it and knowledge you will treasure forever. The best time to travel to Bikaner is during the winters when the weather is cool and tolerable.
Some of the greatest well-known traveller fascinations you can visit when you travel to Bikaner are recorded below.
Raja Rai Singh, one of the most reliable generals of Emperor Akbar, constructed the Junagarh Fort in 1594 AD. The fort is a typical blend of oriental and European forms of architecture. It is located on the desert plain unlike other forts in Rajasthan that are found on higher elevations. The Junagarh Fort has remained unconquered till date and has only two gates, the main entrance being the Suraj Pol or the Sun Gate. The fort also houses a number of superb palaces and gardens that are well-known for their beautiful beauty.
The Lalgarh Palace, built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in the memory of his father is an architectural masterpiece in itself. Made of red sandstone, the meticulously done latticework and filigree work further enhance the loveliness of this majestic structure. The sprawling gardens and dancing peacocks indoors the palace are a treat to the eyes. A part of the Lalgarh Palace has been transformed into a luxury hotel and a museum.
This farm spreads over an area of over 2000 acres of semi-arid land and is managed by the central government. It also has the distinction of being the only one of its kind in Asia. Apart from being a breeding and research centre, the farm also teaches training to camels.
Road: Bikaner is linked by road with some of the major cities of India and Rajasthan. Delhi is at a distance of 450 km away from Bikaner while Jaipur lies 330 km away from the city.
Rail: There are trains linking Bikaner to cities like Delhi, Jodhpur and Jaipur. The Chetak Express and the Bikaner Express are significant trains that connect Delhi and Bikaner.
Air: The nearest airport is Jodhpur, which is 238 km away.
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