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Rajasthan Travel Guide » Bikaner Travel
About Sightseeings
Junagarh
It is an unassailable fortress, which has never been conquered. Built in
1593 A.D. by Raja Rai Singh, one of the most distinguished generals in the
army of Emperor Akbar, the fort is a formidable structure encircled by a
moat.
The main entrance to the fort is Karan Pol [gate], that is east facing.
Next to it is the Suraj Pol meaning the sun gate. The fort situates in it
some very magnificent palaces like Anup Mahal, Ganga Niwas and Rang Mahal
or palace of pleasure. The Har Mandir is the majestic chapel for the royal
family for worshipping their gods and goddesses. These palaces, constructed
in red sandstone and marble, make a picturesque ensemble of courtyards,
balconies, kiosks and windows dotted all over the structure. The premises
also houses a museum which is an array of a rich collection .
Prachina Museum
It's a museum located in the great Junagarh Fort. The museum is dedicated
to royal costumes, textiles and accessories. 'Poshaks' or the ladies ensemble
displayed are perhaps the last remnants of the traditional designing styles
and workmanship. The museum also reveals a study of changing cultural settings
in its display of family portraits of the former rulers. Changes embarked
by the western influences appear strikingly. The vivid glimpses of legacy
that survived in the contemporary Bikaner are also visible.
Lal Garh Palace

This grand palace is an architectural masterwork in red sandstone, and was
built by Maharaja Ganga Singh Ji in the memory of his father Maharaja Lal
Singh Ji in 1902. Sir Swinton Jacob designed this oriental fantasy. This
architecture is a fusion of Rajput, Mughal and European architecture. The
exterior contrasts dramatically with the oriental interiors and amenities.
The palace has beautiful latticework and filigree work, which are hallmarks
of a great craftsmanship.
The Palace has an amazing collection of well-maintained paintings and
hunting trophies. Sprawling lawns with blooming bougainvillea and dancing
peacocks make a visual extravagance.
Rajasthan State Archives
This Directorate is located in Bikaner. The archives have in their custody
some very precious administrative record of Mughal period like Persian Farmans,
Nishans, Manshurs, Akbarat, Vakil Report, Arzdasht, Khatoot and the record
created during administration of the Princely states of Rajasthan such as
Bahiat, Pattas, Parwanas, Rukkas, Chithiat etc.
Because of this exceptional collection of records the department is of immense
value to researchers all over the world. Facilities likemicrofilming, reference
library and research rooms are also available to researchers. An exhibition
of important documents is also set-up specially for tourist interest.
Ganga Singh Museum

Popularly described as the best museum in the state, it displays a rich
array of archaeological discoveries from prehistoric Harrapan and early
Gupta period. Separate sections put on view paintings, arts and craft, terracotta,
pottery, carpets, coins and ancient Rajput weaponry.
Bhandeswari Jain Temple
Bhandeswari Jain Temple is a fifteenth century temple and is the oldest
monument of Bikaner. The temple is decorated with rich mirror work, frescoes
and gold leaf paintings.
Havelis are ancient mansions of dwelling of the noble and wealthy. They
are known for their opulent life style and intricate carvings and craftsmanship
along with sprawling courtyards. Bikaner is full of such havelis and the
notable amongst them belong to Kotharis, Rampurias, Vaids and Dagas. To
view these havelis the suggested route is Gogagate, Daddhon Ka Chowk,
Rangari Chowk, Assanion Ka Chowk, Mohta Chowk, Binnanion Ka Chowk Daga
Chowk, BK School and Jassuar Gate.
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