Gajner Palace Bikaner is situated in Thar desert of Bikaner district in Rajasthan, India. This great palace is built on the shores of a lake which makes its view really flattering. This palace is spread over 6000 acres. It’s fabulous location and calm environment makes it a perfect place to find peace. You can explore lots of things here, the boat rides, desert safaris, nature walks, sanctuary dinners and much more. The brilliant architecture and the domes that have been built with reddish stones is flattering.
This palace has been recognised as a heritage site. This palace hosts and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world.You can experience the life of a prince or princess living in this extraordinary palace. This palace also hosts evening shows that are really amazing. There are well maintained gardens to hang out and relax. The beautifully decorated camel rides are also a great Bikaner Attraction. You can enjoy these camel rides at a very little price.
This palace has been turned into a luxurious hotel and is currently under ownership of HRH group of hotels.This palace is serving as a hotel since 1976. This palace has numerous terraces that gives a picturesque view. This palace has four wings named as Dungar Niwas, Mandir Chowk, Gulab Niwas and Champa Niwas.
There are a total of 13 historic suites. These suites are well maintained and preserved. The carved pillars , curtains, wooden crafted furniture and antique paintings are a great example of craftsmanship.You can also have a look at the king’s and queen’s belongings that have been preserved in the palace itself Gajner Palace Bikaner.
History
The Gajner Palace in Bikaner was primarily built as a hunting resort during the days of the British Raj. The royal mansion has hosted several dignitaries, including the Prince of Wales in 1905, Governor General Lord Elgin, Lord Erwin in 1927 and also Lord Mountbatten when he was Viceroy of India. The Imperial Sand Grouse shooting at the Palace during the Christmas season was the most sought after invitation in the Indian social calendar. Not just a pleasant panoramic landscape and architectural beauty, the Palace Complex also has the remnants of a historic railway station. This hunting resort was connected to Bikaner Palace by rail in 1922. Though time has passed the palace is elegant and is reminiscent of the olden days.
Architecture of Gajner Palace
Gajner Palace Bikaner is no doubt an architectural wonder. It is a classic example of elegant Rajasthani architecture. The structures form was inspired by Jain and Mughal architecture with a touch of European interiors because it was made during the British rule in India. Classic Rajasthani architecture elements that can be found throughout the property are Jharokhas, Chhatris and Jaalis. Jharokhas are enfolded overhanging balconies. Chhatris are elevated pavilions or porches in a dome shape; they are the most common elements of Rajasthani Architecture. Jaalis, on the other hand, are perforated stone or latticed screen that enable the woman to see what was happening outside without having to show their faces.
The property spreads in an area of 6000 acres and has four wings that are Gulab Niwas, Champa Niwas, Dungar Niwas, and Mandir Chowk. There are 13 suites in Dungar Niwas that were used to host the British dignitaries during their visit. Each of these suites has been restored to its original grandeur. The furniture, wallpaper, four poster bed and every other element of the suites have been recreated with detail and look like artefacts of the bygone age.
The second wing, Gulab Niwas has 32 executive rooms that were assigned to railways officers during the British Era. Champa Niwas is a recently built section with an enormous courtyard. The rooms in this wing overlook the courtyard. Mandir Chowk is the last wing of the palace which has the reception, an ancient temple and age-old Banyan Trees. The hotel is built in the traditional Rajasthani architectural style with elements of the British Raj in its infrastructure and décor Gajner Palace Bikaner.
The Best Time to Visit Gajner Palace, Bikaner
Rajasthan experiences extreme heat during the summers. That is one of the reasons why most of the destinations in the state are best visited during other seasons. Similarly, visiting Bikaner Tour Packages and the Gajner Palace Bikaner during the summers may not be the best idea, as you would be unable to bask in the magnificence of the panoramic landscapes that surround the palace.
However, if you find yourself able to stand the heat, you might just find some great off-season deals during the summer months. While you do have better weather during the monsoons, sudden and unpredictable showers may hamper your sightseeing plans. That being said, if you want to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and grounds of the Gajner Palace, the time from late October to early March is the most ideal Gajner Palace Bikaner.
How To Reach Gajner Palace
The Gajner Palace Bikaner is 2.5 km from Gajner Railway Station, hence could be easily reached by taxis. From Bikaner, it is 30 minutes of drive. By air, you can reach the nearest airport which is named as Nal airport in case you are traveling through air. By train,the state has well connected railway system. The city of Bikaner is also well connected with other cities around it such as Lalgarh. By road, you can easily get a bus or taxi if you are thinking of travelling via road. The autos are also available that can take you to the gajner palace in affordable cost.
