Gajner Palace

Gajner Palace is a hunting lodge of Bikaner rulers situated on the banks of Gajner Lake, Bikaner. Situated in the middle of Thar Desert, Gajner Palace is among the top tourist places in Rajasthan and also one of the top places to visit in Bikaner.

The Gajner Palace was primarily built as a hunting resort during the days of the British Raj by erstwhile ruler of the Bikaner, Maharaja Ganga Singh Ji. The royal mansion has hosted several dignitaries, including the Prince of Wales in 1905, Governor General Lord Elgin, Lord Erwin in 1927 and also Lord Mountbatten when he was Viceroy of India. The Imperial Sand Grouse shooting at the Palace during the Christmas season was the most sought after invitation in the Indian social calendar.

Sprawls over 6000 acres, Gajner Palace is a heritage property which features a lush green garden. It was built in red sandstone and is a perfect illustration of craftsmanship. The palace is known for its distinctive terraces and balconies. The Palace complex also has the remnants of a historic railway station. This hunting resort was connected to Bikaner Palace by rail in 1922 CE.

Gajner Palace has been transformed into a stunning heritage hotel in 1976 and is currently owned by HRH Group of Hotels. Gajner Palace is divided into four wings, Dungar Niwas, Mandir Chowk, Gulab Niwas and Champa Niwas. The hotel has 13 historic suites. Each suite has been meticulously restored to its original grandeur. Every detail, from the furniture to the wallpaper, the four-poster beds and picturesque windows has been carefully preserved.

History
The Gajner Palace in Bikaner was primarily built as a hunting resort during the days of the British Raj. The royal mansion has hosted several dignitaries, including the Prince of Wales in 1905, Governor General Lord Elgin, Lord Erwin in 1927 and also Lord Mountbatten when he was Viceroy of India. The Imperial Sand Grouse shooting at the Palace during the Christmas season was the most sought after invitation in the Indian social calendar. Not just a pleasant panoramic landscape and architectural beauty, the Palace Complex also has the remnants of a historic railway station. This hunting resort was connected to Bikaner Palace by rail in 1922. Though time has passed the palace is elegant and is reminiscent of the olden days.

Bikaner Tourism

Bikaner Tourism 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.