Location
Bikaner is situated in the north of Rajasthan. The city, just like
Jodhpur, is surrounded by great walls. It has Ganganagar and Hanumannagar in
its northern side whereas Churu lies in its eastern side. Nagaur, Jodhpur
and Jaisalmer are in its south while in the western part it has the
neighboring country Pakistan. It is situated on a slightly higher place
(altitude 237 meters) and has an arid climate most of the year. Due to the
geographic location of the city, it was one of the most important trade
centers for the traders of west-central Asia.
Echo! medieval tales
Bikaner retains the medieval splendor that pervades the city's lifestyle
More popularly called the camel country, the city is renowned for the best
riding camels in the world. The ship of the desert is an inseparable part of
life here. Be it pulling heavy carts, transporting grains or working on
wells. Camels are the prime helpers.
The
well of Bikaner-an important source of water are another attraction of the
city. These are built on high plinth with slender minareted towers on each
of the Four Corners and can be noticed even from a distance.
Bikaner's history date backs to 1488A.D. when a Rathore Prince. Rao Bikaji-
a descendant of the founder of Jodhpur(1459A.D.) Rao Jodhaji, established
his kingdom here. Rao Jodhaji had five sons but Rao Jodhaji had five sons
but rao Bikaji was the most enterprising of them.
Places of tourist interest
» Junagarh Fort : One of the most imposing forts of
northern India. Junagarh Fort has remained unconquered till date. This fort
was built in 15th century by one of the most able and trusted generals of
Akbar, Raja Rai Singh.
» Lalgadh Palace : Designed by a Britisher for
Maharaja Ganga Singh, this palace displays a magnificient blend of oriental
and European style. The imposing red sandstone monument is designed by Sir
Swinton Jacob for Maharaja Ganga Singh.
»
The Ganga Golden Jubilee Temple : It is one of the best in Rajasthan,
houses an interesting collection of sculptures, terracotta ware, paintings
and also musical instruments.
» The Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary : It is 32 kms away
and located on the Jaisalmer road. Bluebull, chinkara and blackbuck can be
found. There are flocks of imperial sand grouse too.
» The Camel Breeding Farm : It is 10 kms away from
the city and probably the only one of its kind in Asia and managed by the
government.
