Location | Bikaner

Essence and History

Location	Gajner, approximately 30 km from Bikaner, Rajasthan, India
Setting	Sprawling over 6,000 acres on the shores of the man-made Gajner Lake, adjacent to the Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary
Builder	H.H. Maharaja Sir Ganga Singh of Bikaner (early 20th century, circa 1910-1913)
Original Use	A private hunting lodge and summer retreat for the royal family and British dignitaries during the British Raj
Current Status	Converted into a luxury heritage hotel in 1976

Architecture

The architecture of Gajner Palace is a captivating synthesis of Rajputana tradition and Edwardian taste, crafted entirely from lustrous pink sandstone.

• Design & Layout: The palace is divided into four distinct, richly decorated wings: Dungar Niwas, Mandir Chowk, Gulab Niwas, and Champa Niwas.
• Key Features: Look for the impressive architectural details, including:
  • Scalloped arches and ornate pillars.
  • Intricate jali-work (stone screen) windows.
  • Carved balconies and expansive courtyards.
  • Interiors adorned with vintage tiles, floral friezes, and fine wooden furniture crafted by John Roberts & Co. of Bombay.
• The Lakeside View: The palace’s most striking feature is its picturesque location right on the edge of Gajner Lake, offering a stunning “mirage-like” reflection, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Activities & Experiences

The sprawling 6000-acre estate ensures a unique itinerary for every visitor:

Wildlife & Nature

• Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary: Explore the adjoining sanctuary, home to animals like the Blackbuck, Chinkara (Indian gazelle), Nilgai (Blue Bull), Desert Fox, and Wild Boar.
• Birdwatching: The Gajner Lake is a major draw for migratory birds, including thousands of water birds and the Imperial Sand Grouse, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise, especially during winter.
• Safaris: The palace hotel arranges Jeep Safaris and Camel Safaris into the sanctuary.

Palace & Lake

• Boating: Enjoy serene Solar Boat Charters or rowing on Gajner Lake.
• Cultural Evenings: Witness captivating folk music and dance performances, often held on the Imperial Terrace overlooking the lake and sanctuary.
• Recreation: The grounds feature tennis courts, billiard rooms, cycling tracks, and pleasant nature walks.

Planning Your Visit

Best Time To Visit	October to March. The desert climate is cool and pleasant, and the lake is teeming with migratory birdlife
Getting There	Gajner Palace is approximately a 30-minute drive (about 32 km) from Bikaner city
Accessibility	By Rail: The nearest major railway station is Bikaner Junction. By Air: The nearest domestic airport is Nal Airport (Bikaner), with Jodhpur Airport being the closest major airport (approx. 250 km)
Nearby Attractions	Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, Karni Mata Temple (Rat Temple), and the National Research Centre on Camel, all located in Bikaner.