Gajner Lake is a part of the Gajner Palace, which is located a few kilometres away from the main city of Bikaner, in the Indian state Rajasthan. It is an artificial lake built beside the Gajner Palace, hence the name Gajner Lake. Gajner Lake is considered as the most beautiful place in Bikaner during winters as the lake is covered with more than hundreds and thousands of bird species for migration. This lake is surrounded by dense forest during the winter season and is located between the mountains; therefore, this Palace and the lake are considered as the perfect vacation spot.
Since the Gajner Palace is a king's palace converted into a luxury hotel, you get to learn the history of the city and spend some quality time living like a king. The Gajner Lake is located in front of the Palace; tourists will be able to view the beauty of the lake from their rooms itself. The palace also offers boating rides in the Gajner Lake where you will be able to take a round of the artificial lake surrounding the whole Gajner Palace. While drifting away on the boat from the Gajner palace you will be able to view various types of flora and fauna surrounding the lake.
Recently solar-powered boats have been introduced in the palace this will further help you enjoy nature at its best. You will be able to enjoy the calm and tranquil environment away from the city. This is why Gajner palace in Bikaner is considered as the best getaway for families and individuals alike where you get treated like kings.
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.
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.
Palaces in Rajasthan Known for their beautiful structures, detailed edifices and age-old architecture, the Forts And Palaces in Rajasthan are the very evidence of this land’s rich culture and heritage. Scattered all around the state, these forts and palaces are unique in their history, with every single one more grand than the other. Some of these palaces, like the Umaid Bhawan Palace, amongst others, have also been converted into luxury and heritage resorts and hotels in present times. The famous forts of rajasthan still retain their old glory and exquisite architecture, and transport you back to the bygone eras. One such example is Jaipur’s Amber Fort, which exudes the remnants of the times of the Rajasthani Maharajas. There is also the Chittorgarh Fort, the largest in the country, beautiful and grand, and famous for its glorious past. The palaces in rajasthan, such as Udaipur’s City Palace, which dates back to the 1500s, tell the stories of the kings of the past. Or the Neemrana Palace, which is so grand and royal that it has now been converted into a heritage resort. A visit to these spectacular structures of Rajasthan will definitely be a remarkable experience of a lifetime!