WELCOME TO CAMEL COUNTRY
BIKANER
Bikaner is home to one of the
only two models of the biplane used by the British during World War I. They
were presented by the British to Maharaja Ganga Singh, then ruler of the city.
Another unique aspect about Bikaner are the sand dunes that are scattered
throughout the district, especially from the north-east down to the southern
area. Bikaner is situated in the northern region of Rajasthan. One of the
earlier established cities, Bikaner still displays its ancient opulence through
palaces and forts, built of red sandstone, that have withstood the passage of
time. The city boasts of some of the world’s best riding camels and is aptly
nicknamed ‘camel country’. It is also home to one of the world’s largest camel
research and breeding farms; as well as being known for having its own unique
temple dedicated to Karni Mata at Deshnok, called the Rats Temple.
The origins of Bikaner can be
traced back to 1488 when a Rathore prince, Rao Bikaji, founded the kingdom.
Legend has it that Bikaji, one of Rao Jodhaji’s five sons, left his father’s
Durbar in annoyance after an insensitive remark from his father, the
illustrious founder of Jodhpur. Bikaji travelled far and when he came upon the
wilderness called Jangladesh, he decided to set up his own kingdom and transformed
it into an impressive city.
JUNAGARH FORT
Junagarh is an impregnable
bastion that holds the distinction of having never been captured. It was
constructed in 1588 AD by Raja Rai Singh, one of Emperor Akbar’s most
distinguished generals. The fort complex houses some magnificent palaces
constructed in red sandstone and marble and visitors can feast their eyes on an
attractive assortment of courtyards, balconies, kiosks and windows.
LALGARH PALACE AND MUSEUM
Maharaja Ganga Singh commissioned
the construction of this majestic palace. This architectural marvel is made
entirely of red sandstone and was built in 1902 to commemorate his father,
Maharaja Lal Singh. The design was conceptualised by Sir Swinton Jacob, who
created this oriental fantasy by blending Rajputana, Islamic and European
architecture.
RAMPURIA HAVELI
Bikaner has several havelis
(aristocratic homes), the most famous cluster being the Rampuria Group of
Havelis. Built of dulmera (red) stone, every aspect of the havelis – jharokhas
(casements), entrances, latticed windows, divankhanas, gumaharias or basements
– is simply exotic. Leaves and flowers decorate every jharokha, lending it a
pleasant touch. These massive havelis are decorated with golden work of the
highest quality. Their dankhanas (drawing room) take one back to the Mughal and
Rajput era. One can notice an abundance of Victorian influence in their design
as well. The wood carvings in Rampuria Havelies are extremely exquisite. Spaced
close to each other, the havelis are truly a sight to behold.
DESHNOK KARNI MATA TEMPLE
The Karni Mata Temple at Deshnok
is a beautiful structure made of stone and marble, inside which resides an
image of Karni Mata. The image is decorated with a ‘mukut’ (tiara) and
garlands. The images of her sisters and the sisters of Avad Mata give her
company on either side. The temple is known the world over for the presence of
kabas (rats) that roam freely within the temple precincts.
संदेश
