Maharaja Ganga Singh constructed the Lal Garh Palace of Bikaner in 1902. It was built to commemorate Maharaja Lal Singh Ji, the father of Maharaja Ganga Singh. An architectural splendor of red sandstone, the palace was designed by Sir Swinton Jacob. Bikaner Lalgarh Palace is a unique blend of Rajput, Mughal and European architecture on the outside. At the same time, the interior of the palace has a touch of oriental architecture. Adorning the palace is some fascinating latticework and filigree work. The palace has now been converted into a hotel. Adding to the magnificence of the palace are its terraced lawns the Bougainvillea bushes. If lucky, you may also spot peacocks roaming around the palace. The Palace also houses a rich collection of well-preserved paintings, hunting trophies and old photographs. There is also a library in the Lal Garh Palace of Rajasthan. It is believed that the library has the largest collection of original Sanskrit manuscripts on parchments, copper and gold and silver plaques. The palace also comprises of a museum, displaying an amazing collection of miniature paintings, manuscripts, weaponry and even a World War I bi-plane. Also a part of the museum is a unique collection of books, photographs, manuscripts and albums dating back to the old times.

The intricate filigree work and latticework exhibit the refinements and delicacy of craftsmanship. The palace museum displays well preserved hunting trophies and old photographs. The library of the Lalgarh palace is supposed to have the largest collection of original Sanskrit manuscripts on parchments, copper and gold or silver plaques. Built in the memory of maharaja Lal Singh, Lalgarh Palace has a graceful facade of red sandstone, and is one of Maharaja Ganga Singh’s great achievements. The maharaja ruled for a period of 56 years. The state especially prospered under his rule.

In the fort museum which is housed in the red sandstone Ganga Niwas, built during the reign of Maharaja Sir Ganga Singh, here can be seen a unique collection of miniature paintings, manuscripts, weaponry and even a world war I bi-plane. The Lalgarh palace has now been converted into a beautiful hotel. The large and airy rooms point towards a pervasive British influence, even though the Welcome group took over it's management in 1993 and made numerous renovations. The shri Sadul museum forms a part of the palace, and houses vast collections of books, photographs, manuscripts and albums that span several generations.

» Other Attractions in Bikaner

Junagarh Fort : The Junagarh Fort is one of the forts in India that has never been conquered or seized. Raja Rai Singh, a general in the army of Emperor Akbar built, it in 1593. Enclosed by a moat, the fort has a number of gates. Karan Pol (gate) provides access to the fort. Next to it is Suraj Pol (sun gate). There are a number of buildings within the fort like Anup Mahal, Ganga Niwas and Rang Mahal. There is also a Har Mandir, the royal temple for worshipping gods and goddesses. Built in red sandstone and marble, these palaces house numerous courtyards, balconies, kiosks and windows.

Prachina Museum :Situated in the Junagarh For, the Prachina Museum houses a rich collection of royal costumes, textiles and accessories. There are also Poshaks (the traditional ladies ensemble) in the museum. Also on display are family portraits of the former rulers of Bikaner.

Rajasthan State Archives :This Directorate has in its possession some very precious administrative record of Mughal period like Persian Farmans, Khatoot, Akbarat, Vakil Report, Nishans, Manshurs, Arzdasht, etc. Also housed are the records created during administration of the princely states of Rajasthan such as Chithiat, Parwanas, Pattas, Rukkas, Bahiat, etc. The directorate also provides facilities like microfilming, reference library and research rooms to the researchers.

» Places to Stay in Bikaner

There are several budget hotels and paying guest accommodations available in Bikaner.

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» How to Get there

Air : Jodhpur (243 Km) is the nearest Airport while Jaipur (321 Kms), the capital of Rajasthan is well connected to the metros cities of India such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai.

Rail : Bikaner is connected by rail to cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Jaipur and Allahabad.

Road : Bikaner is connected by road with major cities in Rajasthan and North India. Delhi is 456 Km, Jaipur 334 Km and Jaisalmer 333 Km from Bikaner.

» Climate of Bikaner

Situated at a height of 228 m, the city of Bikaner experiences a typically desert climate. In the summer time Bikaner weather is quite hot. The average temperature in summers falls in the range of 41.8° C to 28.0° C. In winters, the climate of Bikaner is quite pleasant. The average temperature in the winter season falls in the range of 23.2° C to 5.0° C. Regarding the climatic conditions of Bikaner, Rajasthan in the monsoon season, the rainfall averages between 26 cm and 44 cm. The period of October to February provides the best time to visit the city of Bikaner.