History of Gajner Palace
The palace turned hotel enjoys the glory of being the largest hotel in the world when it comes to the area. It was a hunting resort during the British times. Many Viceroys during the East India Company Raj visited India and stayed here during the shooting sessions. It gained fame for the shooting of Sand Grouse Birds found in those areas.
Maharaja Ganga Singh had an enormous collection of animal skins and horns from his hunting expeditions that are on display in the palace. In 1976, the Government of Rajasthan had decided to convert the palace into a hotel to promote tourism. The tales of the beauty of the Gajner Palace has attracted people from all over the world, including dignitaries like the Prince of Wales, Governor General Lord Elgin, Lord Erwin and Lord Mountbatten to name a few.
Architecture of Gajner Palace
Gajner Palace 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.
Activities at Gajner Palace
The Gajner Palace hotel provides a lot of facilities for leisure activities. The trees all around the palace are home to various kinds of birds. Bird watching is thereby a popular activity here. The hotel also provides cycles that you can ride around the vast compound. You can even go for a swim in their swimming pool or play billiards. It also has a lawn tennis court.
In and around Bikaner, a variety of activities are available. Desert safaris and camel rides are a tourist favourite. The hotel management can book these directly. The Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary also provides safaris for viewing the various animals and birds that reside there. Cheetahs have also been spotted in the sanctuary. The safari bookings can also be made through the hotel management.
The hotel also hosts shows that perform the classic Rajasthani art forms like dance and music. The significance of the dances and their origin are explained before they perform. The dancers perform in the traditional colourful attire. It is a breathtaking show and leaves the audience in absolute awe.
How to Reach Gajner Palace
The Gajner Palace is 2.5 km from Gajner Railway Station, hence could be easily reached by taxis. From Bikaner, it is 30 minutes of drive.
Top Tourist Places in Bikaner
Karni Mata Temple
Kote Gate
Rampuriya Haveli
Lalgarh Palace
Station Road
National Reserch Centre On Camel
All Tourist Places in Bikaner
Tips
1. To enjoy the complete experience, you need to book the lake facing rooms much prior as they are in high demand.2. Jeep Safaris and Camel Safaris for the Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary are available.
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