Bikaner: Citadel of Culture and Camels

Bikaner's history dates back to 1488 A.D. when a Rathore prince, Rao Bhikaji, established his kingdom here. He was the descendant of the founder of Jodhpur (1459) A.D. Rao Jodhaji. Rao Jodhaji had five sons and Bhikaji proved to be the most enterprising amongst them. He chose a barren wilderness to transform it into an impressive city called Bikaner.Ever since the foundation of Bikaner till its accession into Indian union, Bikaner has always played an important role in the history of the country. Bikaner has produced several able generals and warriors and distinguished rulers. The most important of them was Akbar's general Raja Rai Singhji. Raja Anup Singh's tenure, who ascended the throne in 1669A.D, has been described as the golden time of Bikaner's fame and valor.

Location: Bikaner, heart of west Rajasthan is known as the 'Tapo bhoomi' of great sages and saints, since pre-historic times. The holy rivers of Saraswati and Drishadwati used to flow in this region. Archaeologists believe that the Great Indian Desert, of which Bikaner is a part, was once an ocean. A belief which stands substantiated by the presence of sedimentary layers of various kinds of the precious clay, bajri etc. in the holy Kolayat area55 kms away from Bikaner.

Languages Spoken Rajasthani, Hindi, English.
Long Distance Code +91-151
Importance Karni devi temple where rats are treated as pets
Area 38 sq.kms.
Best Time To Visit October To February

Bikaner Attractions:

Junagarh Fort

This fort was built between1588-1593 A.D. by Raja Rai Singh, a general in army of Mughal emperor Akbar. The Suraj pol is the main entrance to this fort. The palaces are on the southern side of the fort and courtyards, balconies and windows.The major feature of the Junagarh fort is the excellent quality of stone carving, best in the world. The Chandra Mahal or the moon palace is beautiful with paintings, mirrors and carved marble panels. The phool mahal or the flower palace is decorated with glass and mirrors. The Karan mahal was built to commemorate the victory over Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. The Anup Mahal is famous for its gold leaf painting.

Lalgarh Palace

The architectural masterpiece in red sand stone, built by Maharaja Ganga Singh (1881-1942A.D.) in the memory of his father Maharaja Lall Singh is an example of pure Rajput martial architecture. Designed by Sir Swinton Jacob, this palace has large halls, pavilions, lounges and couplas. It has magnificent pillars, richly carved fire mantles, Italian colonnades and motif of lotus in full bloom. Walls of the palace are reminiscent of the past vintage etchings, hunting trophies and old portraits. The palace has its own museum and library that is the fourth largest in the world. The royal family still lives in part of the palace.

Gajner Palace
Gajner palace was summer resort of the Maharajas of Bikaner and is often referred to as the incomparable jewel in the Thar desert. The beautiful paace stands on lake. Built by Ganga Singh of Bikaner, the palace was used for grand shoots and lavish entertainments by the Maharaja. Indian and foreign royalties, Viceroys and other dignitaries have been entertained here. The amazing craftsmanship with intricately carved pillars, charkas and screens leaves one awestruck. It is surrounded by beautiful sanctuary which provides shelter to chinkaras, black bucks, Nilgai and flocks of imperial sand grouse. A part of the palace is converted into hotel.

Deshnok's Karni Mata Temple

This 600 year old famous temple on the Jodhpur highway is dedicated to mata Karni, a form of Goddess Durga. The temple has huge intricately carved silver gates donated by Maharaja Ganga Singh. The interesting thing about the temple is the rats roaming freely around. They are fed by the priests and the devotees, owing to the belief that they will be reincarnated as holy men.

Bikaner Hotels:

RAJVILAS PALACE

Total Rooms : 57
Star Category : 5
This building known as Raj Vilas Palace was built in the year 1866 and originally used to house the Resident and Agent to the Governor General of India. Now, this same building was converted into a Hotel, known as Hotel Raj Vilas Palace, with major structural changes so as to transform the same into a luxurious Deluxe hotel with almost all facilities of a Five-Star hotel. We Arrange Camel Safari, Folk Dance and Music, Traditional Fire Dance of Bikaner, Camel Dance, Jeep Safari etc. at affordable price.

HERITAGE RESORT

Total Rooms : 50
Star Category : 3
Heritage Resort Bikaner, is a refined and refreshingly comfortable resort, exudes the mystique and beauty of the cultural heritage of Rajasthan.Modem ammenities discreetly blends into the regal splendor of a bygone era. Here the rhythm of enchanting melodies, the sheer magic of the desert and the embracing smiles of our hospitality will surpass all your wildest expectations.

GAJNER PALACE

Total Rooms : 44
Star Category : 3
Gajner Palace is a Grand Heritage Palace of the HRH Group of Hotels. Spread over 6000 acres, the palace is a 30-minute drive from Bikaner. Gajner Palace was built on the banks of Gajner Lake by Sir Ganga Singhji, one of the greatest Maharajas of Bikaner, in the early decades of the twentieth century.The red sandstone palace is distinguished for its architectural grandeur and luxuriously appointed suites and rooms. The greenery at Gajner Palace, lawns and the chirping of birds and peacocks make it a truly memorable destination for leisure and corporate travellers.

KARNI BHAWAN

Total Rooms : 20
Star Category : 3
Karni bhawan was built by maharajah Dr Karni Singh of Bikaner in the 40's.All rooms are large, well decorated, comfortable and full with all modern amenities. The palace is surrounded by large sprawling grounds and lots of shady trees .

LALLGARH PALACE

Total Rooms : 56
Star Category : 3
Built in the year 1902 by one of the most outstanding personalities of princely India, Maharaja Ganga Singhji. The Lallgarh Palace is sheer poetry in sandstone. Constructed during the first half of the nineteenth century, it defies the bleak and rugged reality of the Thar desert. Lallagarh Palace is a complete integrated example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, a perfect example of Sir Swinton Jacob's creations. The palace has played host to a number of dignitaries from all over the world.

Bikaner Hotels...

Jaisalmer:The Golden City

The golden city was founded by Rawal Jaisal, a descendant of the Yadav, a Bhati Rajput in 1156 A.D. It was on the advice of a hermit Eesul, that he also shifted his capital from Lodurva. A legend goes that once when Lord Krishna had visited this place, had predicted that a Yadav would build his capital over here which would be formidable for centuries. Jaisalmer was well protected due to the hostile landscape and Bhati Rajputs, who are known for their valor and chivalry. They levied taxes on the caravans that traveled the ancient spice route on their way to Delhi and went on rampage over the nearby fortress acquiring huge wealth for the city. Thus not only the royalties but also the merchants benefited and they displayed their wealth in their havelis. The glory of Jaisalmer got affected with the advent of the sea trade. Today this desert city is famous for its intricately carved havelis and old Jain temples. The sand dunes make it one of the most important tourist destinations in the country.

The perfect time to visit is during the desert festival in January / February, when the city dances to the melodious rhythms.

Location: Jaisalmer a beautiful city with harsh climatic conditions is located in the heart of the Thar Desert. Rightly called the museum city Jaisalmer involves vivid visions of valor, chivalry and love.

Languages Spoken:Rajasthani, Hindi, English

Long Distance Code +91-2991

Importance: Famous for the Golden fort

Area :5.1 sq.kms.

Best Time To Visit: September To March

Jaisalmer Attractions:

Havelis

Intricately carved beautiful havelis are strewn all over Jaisalmer. Each has its own characteristics. Some of the important are:

NATHMALJI KI HAVELI: Carved by two brothers in the 19th century, the intricate architecture in stone is the epitome of beauty. The interior walls are adorned by the paintings in miniature style.

PATWON KI HAVELI: One of the most exquisite buildings in the walled city, which truly exemplifies the architectural style typical of erstwhile Rajputana. It is five storeyed and the extensive corridors and chambers are supported by intricately carved pillars.

SALIM SINGH KI HAVELI: Distinctive for its blue cupola roof, this extraordinary mansion in yellow stone is covered entirely with intricate carvings and has an elaborate projecting balcony on the top floor

Gadsisar Lake

This rain water lake was once upon a time a major supplier of water to the city. Today it has become favorite picnic spots. Sacred shrines and gardens flank the lake and a varied collection of birds can be spotted. Boating facility is also available.

Tazia Tower

From the Badal Vilas rises the delicate pagoda like structure of the Tazia tower. It is a gift to the city from the Muslim craftsmen, 'silvats' of Jaisalmer before they permanently migrated to Pakistan in 1947. This beautiful Tazia is ornately decorated and carried in a procession during Moharram.

Jaisalmer Fort

Housing in the entire township in its ramparts this huge golden fort gives a scenic view of the desertscape from its 80 meters high perch on the hill. It has a cobweb of narrow lanes with havelis, five interconnected palaces and three beautiful Jain temples dating back to the 12th to the 15th centuries.The golden fort built of sandstone on the Trikuta hill, seems like a majestic structure standing out of the sea of sand. The fort is protected by the rugged high walls and approachable only through four gates, namely the Akhaiy pol, the Ganesh pol, the Suraj pol and the Hava pol. The palaces built atop the main entrance form an imposing edifice crowned by a huge umbrella of metal mounted on a stone shaft.The fort also houses many old Hindu and Jain temples, beautifully carved havelis and the entire living area is well protected within the ramparts of the fort.

Desert National Park

The park set in the backdrop of rugged terrain with shifting sand dunes and scrub covered hills, it is an excellent example of desert eco system. Sand dunes constitute about 20% of the total park area, while the rocks and the salt lake form an appropriate dwelling for the Black buck and the Chinkara. The other animals found in this area are the desert fox, the Bengal fox and the desert cat.Sudhashri forest post is ideal place for watching the wildlife in the park. Birds like the Sand grouse, partridges, bee-eaters, larks and shrikes are also fund here. Demosille cranes also visit the park in winters, but the most important occupant is the great Indian Bustard, a tall and heavy bird with confidence and grace!

Jaisalmer Hotels:

DEOKI NIWAS PALACE

Total Rooms : 40

Star Category : 3

Hotel Deoki Niwas Palace is designed like castle and is built from Jurassic yellow sand-stone . It offers world class facilities and services, in order to make your holiday even more adventurous and luxurious.Deoki Niwas Palace is one of the finest Luxury Boutique hotel of Jaisalmer. With its well appointed guest rooms Deoki Niwas is the perfect setting for a memorable vacation in the Desert city of Jaisalmer. Here next to the walled city entry point, you will quickly discover the allure of the only " LIVING FORT" of Jaisalmer. Our location places us just minutes away from the host of attractions that continue to make Jaisalmer one of the nation's popular tourist destination.

FORT RAJWADA

Total Rooms : 91

Star Category : 3

Located in 6 acres of land, this princely home has an interior decor created by the genius of renowned opera designer Ms. Stephanie Engeln. Located in peaceful countryside just out side the golden city is this oasis of serenity & comfort.

THE GATEWAY HOTEL RAWAL KOT

Total Rooms : 31

Star Category : 4

Overlooking the town of Jaisalmer, Hotel Rawal-Kot is the perfect combination of modern comfort and fairytale medieval charm. Perched above the town and seemingly rising out of the rocks, the hotel offers postcard-perfect views of the 12th century Jaisalmer Fort as well as the setting sun. Inspired by the havelis of yore, the hotel's design offers a palette of local colors, materials, and fabrics.

GORBANDH PALACE

Total Rooms : 83

Star Category : 3

The very name of this hotel is inspired by the influence of the desert. Gorbandh is a harness, which the desert women decorate for their husband's camel with any material they can find: cowry shells, beads, sequins, couloured threads and even buttons. The architecture of this Royal Retreat has been inspired by traditional Indian homes. The hotel organises desert camps with Rajasthan's celebrated folk music and dance around a campfire on starlit evenings at the sand dunes.

HERITAGE INN JAISALMER

Total Rooms : 59

Star Category : 3

A modern hotel with a ethnic touch - a resort redefined, away from the clamous of the city - yet only ten minutes away from it all - Heritage Inn helps relax and get the maximum out of your vacation - while you are here enjoy sunbathing by the pool or live in rustic luxury of our air conditioned cottages, all of which opens up in the garden - a multi cuisine restaurant, bar and rajasthani folk music & dance by the camp fire under the clear desert sky at night completes a dream vacation.

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Udaipur : The Lake City

The city of lakes,Udaipur, is perhaps one of the most beautiful and romantic cities of India. In contrast with its desert neighbourhood, it stands out with its enchanting image of white marble palaces, placid blue lakes, gardens, temples surrounded by hills and mountains. It is an oasis of colour in the stark arid region and so indeed is the Venice of east.Udaipur is the jewel of Mewar, a kingdom ruled by the Sisodia dynasty for 1200 years. It is said that this city was founded by Maharaja Udai Singh at the advice of a hermit whom he met at the lake Pichhola during a hunting expedition. The city was built in 1559 A.D. and was named after Udai Singh. He died in 1572 A.D. He was succeeded by his son Maharana Pratap (1572 - 97), who defended the city from many attacks of the Mughals. After the Mughals it was the Marathas attacked the city. Rana Pratap as he is known, was a great warrior and lived in troubled times.An end to the bloody battles came with the British intervention in the early 19th century, when a treaty was signed to protect the city from any further attacks. Later, after independence, like all other princely states, Udaipur too became a part of the United India.

Location: Located in the Aravali ranges of Rajasthan, the city of Udaipur is situated at a distance of about405kms from the state capital of Jaipur. The city is well connected by air, rail and road to other important cities of India like Jaipur,Mumbai and Delhi.If Jaipur is study in pink, then Udaipur is vision in white. The city of dawn, surrounded by the ancient Aravali mountains and set on the edge of three lakes, is a brilliant Kaleidoscope of narrow lanes flanked by bright stalls, gardens, lakes, palaces and temples.

Languages Spoken: Rajasthani, Hindi, English

Long Distance Code:+91-7833

Importance: Known as the city of Lakes

Area 37 sq.kms.

Best Time To Visit: September To March

Udaipur Attractions:

City Palace

City palace is a complete white structure, standing majestically on a hill and the largest palace complex of Rajasthan. This enormous structure is 30.4 meters in height and 244 meters in length and was started by Udai Singh and subsequently built by later rulers. The entrance to this palace is through Hathi pol or the Elephant gate, along the main street of the old city. The Bara pol or the big gate opens into the first court which leads to the Tripolia gate which has eight carved marble arches.Then there are series of courtyards overlapping pavilion of terraces, corridors and hanging gardens. There is the Suraj Gokhada, the balcony of the Sun, where the Suryawanshi (sons of the Sun God); Maharanas of Mewar, presented themselves in times of trouble to the people to restore their confidence. The Mor chowk or the peacock courtyard gets its name form the glass decoration it has. The chini chitrashala is noteworthy for its blue and white ceramics, while a series of wall paintings on Lord Krishna are on display in the Bhim Vilas palace.

Jagadish Temple:

Built in1651 A.D. by Maharana Jagat Singh, this Indo - Aryan temple is the largest and the most beautiful temple of Udaipur with noteworthy sculpted images. Alligators, Elephants, horsemen and celestial musicians are seen on the exterior. It is a gigantic construction and is just like a Hindu iconography school. Temples of Eklingji and Nathdwara are known as the most sacred pilgrims in Mewar.

Lake Palace:

The most enchanting tourist attraction of Udaipur, the Lake Palace (also known as Jag Niwas) is a beautiful island palace built by Maharana Jagat Singh II in 1754. Situated on picturesque Lake Pichola, the white marble structure appears like emerging out of the shimmering blue waters on the lake, creating a spellbound effect on visitors.

Jag Mandir

Jag Mandir is another beautiful island palace on Lake Pichola, built by Maharaja Karan Singh in 1615 AD. The palace once sheltered the Mughal prince Khurram (later Emperor Shah Jehan, who built the world-famous Taj Mahal) who rebelled against his father Jehangir in the 1620's. The Palace has a giant stone sculpture of elephants and an impressive chattri (cenotaphs) that add to its beauty.

Saheliyon-Ki- Bari:

The Saheliyon-ki-Bari Garden was built in early 18th century AD as a retreat for ladies of the royal household to spend their time in leisure. The enchantingly beautiful Garden is famous for its lotus pool, fountains (in the shape of birds), lush green lawns, flowerbeds, and marble pavilions, offering a breathtaking view to visitors.

Hotels in Udaipu:

THE LALIT LAXMI VILAS PALACE

Total Rooms : 55

Star Category : 2.5

The Lalit Laxmi Vilas PalaceLaxmi Vilas Palace Hotel located at the bank of Fateh Sagar lake enjoys a picturesque view of the lakes, Aravalli Hills and Sajjangarh Palace. The hotel was built by Maharana Bhupal Singh originally in 1911 as a residence of Mr. Winn Gate political agent at that time and in 1945 Mr. Winngate was shifted to Hathi Pole and the Laxmi Vilas Palace was rebuilt as a royal guest house to house the dignitaries, visiting princes and British officers. In 1966 the Laxmi Vilas Palace was transferred to DOT and in 1969 it was handed over to ITDC. Ever since Laxmi Vilas Palace was run under the banner of Ashok Group of Hotels. The hotel Laxmi Niwas Palace expanded in two phases, firstly in 1977, 23 rooms were added to the existing 11 and in 1984, 20 more were added, thus taking total number of rooms to 55 (44 regular rooms and 11 suites) the banquet hall was also added during this period.

TAJ LAKE PALACE

Total Rooms : 83

Star Category : 5

The Taj Lake Palace is a marble fantasy that floats magically on the still blue waters of Lake Pichola. The hotel has 83 rooms including 17 suites, some of which are breathtakingly beautiful. The Taj Lake Palace is located 26 km from the Udaipur airport and a kilometre from the city centre.

TRIDENT HILTON UDAIPUR

Total Rooms : 143

Star Category : 5

Trident Hilton Udaipur is located on the banks of the picturesque Pichola Lake and is ten minutes drive from the city center. Forty three acres of land with lush green landscaping surrounds the hotel.The hotel provides a perfect base to explore the fabled city of Udaipur, acclaimed worldwide for its beautiful lakes, medieval palaces and colourful bazaars. All rooms are furnished in shades of indigo blue and gold. The architecture reflects the ancient heritage of Udaipur city.

THE OBEROI UDAI VILAS

Total Rooms : 87

Star Category : 5

The Oberoi Udaivilas stands on the banks of Lake Pichola facing Udaipur, with views across the water to the 17th Century palaces of Jagmandir and Jagniwas. Udaivilas took ten years to build.A fabulous resort hotel set among thirty acres of former hunting grounds, Udaivilas itself is nothing short of palatial. A pristine version of an original Rajasthani Mewari moated palace, Udaivilas incorporates every conceivable modern comfort.Visual treats include open-air colonnades flanked by 450 hand-carved stone columns. Domes covered in gold leaf. Hand-painted murals, arches and fountains. Landscaped terraces and acres of white marble. A decorative pool of giant marble lotus flowers. And, a treat for all the senses, a superb banyan Tree Spa.

SHIV NIWAS PALACE

Total Rooms : 36

Star Category : 3

A crescent adorning the southern end of the Palace complex, the Shiv Niwas Palace Hotel Udaipur was originally Maharana Fateh Singhji's residence. The rooms around this awe-inspiring courtyard were used as a place for entertaining personal guests. Shiv Niwas Palace Hotel Udaipur was the vision of the His Late Highness Maharana Bhagwat Singhji Mewar, which led to its conversion into a luxury hotel. Shiv Niwas Palace Hotel Udaipur is now categorised as a Grand Heritage Palace as it has been restored to its original pristine glory.

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