Lallgarh
Palace
The architectural masterpiece in red sandstone, built by Maharaja
Ganga Singh (1881 AD-1942 AD) in memory of his father Maharaja
Lall Singh between 1902 -1926.This magnificent palace is an
example of pure Rajput martial architecture. Designed by Sir
Swinton Jacob, this palace has several grand halls, lounges,
cupolas and pavilions. The exotic palace has magnificent pillars,
richly carved fire mantles, Italian colonnades and motif of
lotus in full bloom, adding to the magic of this color full
Palace.
Gajner Palace
Gajner Palace -a summer resort of Bikaner Maharajas -has often
been described as an incomparable jewel in the Thar desert.
Built by Maharaja Ganga Singh ji of Bikaner, palace stands
on the embankment of a lake. The architecture of Gajner palace
is truly outstanding. Built in red sandstone with intricately
carved pillars, jharokhas and screens , the craftsmanship
here is amazing.Palace is surrounded by beautiful wooded area,
now a preserved sanctuary which provides shelter to chinkaras,
blackbucks, blue bull (neel gai) and flocks of imperial sand
grouse. A part of palace has been transformed into hotel.
Devi Kund (Royal cenotaphs)
Devi Kund sagar is situated 8 km in the east of city. The
members of ruling family of Bikaner subsequent to Jet Singh,
the great grandson of Rao Bikaji, have been cremated here.
On the sides of reservoir of water lie the Royal cenotaphs
of rulers of Bikaner dynasty from Rao Kalyan Singhji to last
Maharaji Karni Singhji as well as those of their wives and
other important members of families.There are cenotaphs (Chhatries)
of 22 SATIES of royal family prior to Maharaja Gaj Sigh Ji
(1745-1787). There is also one cenotaph of a SATA (male sati)
of a ruler.The architecture of the cenotaphs is the prime
attraction of this place. Maharaja Surat Singh's Chhatri is
built entirely in white marble with spectacular Rajput paintings
on its ceiling. Close by is a Dargah of Rustal Ali Shah Peer
which is held in high esteem by muslim community and other
people
Karni Mata Temple (Rats temple)
Situated en route to Jodhpur, the temple is dedicated to Karni
Mata -an incarnation of Durga. The temple has fascinating
huge silver gates and marble carvings that were donated by
Maharaja Ganga Singhji The most attractive feature of temple
are the rodents who scamper freely within the premises and
if one touches your feet its considered auspicious. They are
regarded sacred and devotees buy prasad (feeding) to offer
to them.
|