Luxury Heritage Hotels in Bikaner: Rajasthan
Basant Vihar Palace Bikaner
Hotel Basant Vihar Palace was built because of a ‘fanciful desire’ of His Highness Maharaj Sri Ganga Singhji, a connoisseur of architecture and one blessed with an artistic sense. Basant Vihar Palace was designed by him to be a separate pleasure garden adjoining the Zanana Bagh (Royal Ladies Garden) of Lalgarh Palace. In 1993, the House of Bikaji converted this masterpiece of architecture into a heritage hotel – Hotel Basant Vihar Palace. An endeavour to offer tourists a true flavour of history and royal living (as opposed to the usual star-category hotels), Hotel Basant Vihar Palace today, remains a ‘garden of eternal spring
Hunting, as a rule, was a sport limited only to the feudal chiefs and the Maharajas. Major game was hunted only during the period of British Raj. The Basant Vihar Palace, built by Maharaja Ganga Singhji, served as resort. There was invitation to the annual sand grouse shoot in Bikaner that no one dared miss: it simply belonged on the top of the heap in society, so designed by Maharaja Ganga Singh at this hunting lodge. Royalty, Indian as well as International, Viceroys and other dignitaries have been entertained here.
Bhanwar Niwas Bikaner
Deep in the Thar Desert, behind endless waves of sand dunes lies Bikaner, one of the most interesting centers of later Indian art. In this great town of red sandstone, with richly decorated houses rising high over its bustling streets, stands Hotel Bhanwar Niwas, the most magnificent of the famed havelis belonging to the Rampuria family.
Commissioned by the late Seth Bhanwarlalji Rampuria in 1927, the architecture of the haveli and its interiors is a fascinating blend of Indian and European styles.
Now a heritage hotel, Bhanwar Niwas offers its guests an experience of the lost flamboyant world of Rajputana.
Harasar Haveli Bikaner
Harasar Haveli was the residence of the Home and Army Minister of the former princely State of Bikaner – Late Colonel Rao Bahadur Thakur Jeoraj Singh. He was the ruling chief (Thakur) of the Thikana of Harasar, which was granted to him as an additional field by Maharaja Ganga Singhji of Bikaner.
‘Harasar Haveli’ was launched as a heritage hotel in 1997 by Kanwar Visvajeet Singh (AKA BUBBLES) the grandson of Thakur Jeoraj Singh. Since Harasar Haveli has been converted to a heritage hotel, the reputation of Hotel Harasar Haveli has steadily grown. Catering to domestic as well as international guests and providing great hospitality in a traditional Rajput manner. Hotel Harasar Haveli has Rooftop giving a commanding view of the Junagarh Fort, of Lallgarh Palace and of other prominent landmarks of the city, up to the sand dunes surrounding Bikaner.
Twenty-five kilometers outside the city, K. Visvajeet (owner of hotel Harasar Haveli) Singh owns a farm in which six double rooms with all amenities are also open to the guests. The farm is situated in the midst of a beautiful countryside.
Karni Bhawan Palace Bikaner
It’s a luxurious royal residence, Karni Bhawan Palace in Bikaner was one of the private residences built by Maharaja Karni Singh, a modern-day maharaja of Bikaner.
Like his illustrious forefathers, Maharaja Karni Singh was a tireless builder. Karni Bhawan Palace was built in the art deco style, highly popular by the 1950s in Europe and the United States.
Doric pillars, ornamental brackets, decorative winding staircases, light streaming in through large windows: Hotel Karni Bhawan Palace is a royal retreat of the HRH group that has retained the original character of the former residence. Period paintings, old English furniture in the spacious suites and dining hall takes the travel-weary jet-setter into a soothing world.
To unwind, you can enjoy a drink in the landscaped gardens of Hotel Karni Bhawan Palace; winter afternoons are best spent soaking in the warmth of the desert sun.
Traditional Rajasthani and Indian cuisine, along with a selection of continental dishes, is lovingly prepared and served by old retainers of Karni Bhawan Palace, Their smile, and personalized care, makes a stay in this heritage hotel so special and memorable.
Laxmi Niwas Palace Bikaner
The historical stretch of land covering the area of the back portion of Laxmi Niwas Palace and various quarters of State time is known as Lallgarh. Situated in this stretch of royal apartments is the residence of Late Maharaja Ganga Singh, the maker of modern Bikaner, who personally conceived, foresaw and supervised the construction of his personal residence–The Laxmi Niwas Palace– a magnificent red sandstone edifice designed by Sir Swinton Jacob in the Anglo-Scenic style. This stately building, great & grand, is built around a central courtyard and is intricately carved from the skirting upto the highest dome. The stone ‘jali’ work (lattice) is awesome and stunning. The motifs, floral and geometrical, leave you mesmerised. A lace- like work of stone on the edges of the entire roof was devised as a glittering crown on the head of the palace!! The royal palace of Laxmi Niwas Palace has a gigantic principal entrance–The Clock Tower which is secured by guards and evokes memories of old grandeur and splendour.
A long drive flanking the vast lawns with rows of trees, fairly big pools and red sandstone quarters take you to the hotel Laxmi Niwas Palace. The great Portico extends a respectful and dignified welcome to the visitor. The sculptural art on the pillars supporting this amazing high- ceilinged Portico, along with the decorative carving, evokes the senses. The wide retina of stately staircase lead you up to the reception which extends a warmth of hospitality to the visitor. It is the pilot to the extensive hallways and the vast ‘chowk’ or inner-courtyard, hallowed by the memories of festive occasions and gracious functions of the past.
The huge area of the ‘chowk’, with a garden in the centre and a beautiful fountain, presents a different angle to view the beauty of the palace. All round this courtyard are rows of columns along the long corridors providing an arresting view. On the walls are hung rare Trophies, images of the sportive hunting hobby of the Rajputs. Opening out into these long corridors are rooms of colossal size, with about ten feet high doors, which have been painstakingly restored to their former glory. The original paintwork arabesque decoration on the walls & ceiling of hotel Laxmi Niwas Palace has been restored by local artists and craftsmen. The rooms have been refurbished with exquisite soft furnishings and the bathrooms have been made ultra-modern keeping in mind the needs of the modern day travellers. The Laxmi Niwas Palace still today commands a grand view. It is a monument of the glorious past, a vista of bygone times, covering almost a century of changes ups and downs. It is indeed the ‘Crowning Glory’ of Bikaner’s forts and palaces.
Meghsar Castle Bikaner
Hotel Meghsar Castle earlier known as “MEGHSAR HOUSE” Was built in 1930 by Lt. Col. Kishan Singh (MBE) Meghsar Castle Reflects the rich old tradition and warm hospitability of Rajasthan the Mystic land of golden sand dunes, forts and palaces, Rajput valour ideally located 1 Km. Away from the railway station ½ Km. From the bus station and the city center The Hotel Meghsar Castle welcomes you with 16 large spacious well ventilated well equipped rooms. Lush green garden ensuring you of a pleasant and peaceful homely environment. A garden restaurant with 24 Hr. services for fresh and delicious Delicacies promising you comfortable and affordable stay.
Bhairon Vilas Bikaner
The former princely state of Bikaner was established in 1488 on the western border of Rajasthan’s great Thar Desert. Over the centuries, its proud and fearless kings fought heroically in numerous battles, built luxurious and defensive fort palaces to defend their kingdom and patronized the arts.
Maharaja Ganga Singh Ji’s philanthropic and capable rule inaugurated Bikaner’s Golden Age (1881 to 1942). The Maharaja’s Rule was assisted by his first cousin, Prime Minister Maharaj Bhairon Singh Ji, who was name after the god Bhairon, a form of Shiva. In 1916, in recognition of his service to the crown, Lord Harding, then Governor of India, conferred upon Bhairon Singh Ji the prestigious title K.C.S.J. (Knight Commander of the Most Exalted Order of the Star of India).
Bhairon Singh Ji’s residence, a sprawling fortified Haveli, in the shadow of Bikaner’s historic Junagarh Fort, was begun in 1872. The property was named Bhairon Vilas, after both Bhairon Singh Ji and for the god Bhairon Ji himself, whose temple on the site predates the haveli. Its presence there was considered auspicious and was taken as a good omen for the inhabitants. Over the years, several distinguished personalities were the personal guests of the Prime Minister. Lords Themsford, Hardings, Curzon and several of the Viceroys and Governor of India.
Today Bhairon Singh Ji’s ancestors still live in the haveli and have converted it into a heritage Hotel… with a difference! Bhairon Vilas Hotel stands apart from other heritage hotels with its relaxed, homely ambiance and reasonable rates. All the rooms and grounds are decorated with period furniture, from the family’s personal collection. Bhairon Vilas Hotel offers 18 charming, colourful, air-conditioned rooms, each unique and highlighting the family’s proud legendary Rajput heritage. The peaceful gardens with flower filled water pools and cool green lawns are an ideal place to enjoy breakfast or dinner, while watching a traditional Rajasthani puppet or musical show or fire dancing, all of which can be arranged by the hotel.
Gajner Palace Bikaner
The Grandeur and sweep of Gajner Palace takes one by surprise. It’s overpowering and yet so warm and welcoming in a typical Rajasthani way. Gajner Palace, just a 30-minute drive from Bikaner, is today a grand heritage palace hotel of HRH Group of Hotels. In the early decades of the twentieth century it was a sprawling summer palace of Sir Ganga Singhji, one of the greatest Maharajas of Bikaner. British viceroys, political agents and military commanders were his special guests at Gajner Palace where ‘a jolly good time’ was had by all.
Built on the shores of the Gajner Lake, the red sandstone architecture of the Gajner Palace contrasts sharply with the blue skies above and the abundant greenery of the Palace. Its historic suites are well appointed with four-poster beds, period furniture and mirrors. The Fireplace evokes a cozy feel of the English manor. Gajner Palace has been developed both as an ideal getaway for leisure travellers and a venue for corporate meetings. The Gajner Palace comes alive for glittering weddings. Nature walks, camel and jeep safaris take visitors deep into the 6000-acres Gajner wildlife sanctuary. Gajner Palace, as gracious as always, has a novel way of making visitors feel welcome.
Jaswant Bhawan Bikaner
Hotel Jaswant Bhawan earlier known as Daudsar Dera was built in 1926 by Rao Bahadur Jaswant Singhji, last Prime Minister of former state of Bikaner and member of Rajya Sabha. The hotel Jaswant Bhawan has spacious and comfortable rooms and a charming lounge with a unique collection of old photographs & memorabilia. The hotel Jaswant Bhawan has ten well appointed, fully furnished rooms.
Lallgarh Palace Bikaner
Built in the year 1902 by one of the most outstanding personalities of princely India, Maharaja Ganga Singhji. The Lallgarh palace is sheer poetry in sandstone. Constructed during the first half of the nineteenth century, it defies the bleak and rugged reality of the Thar desert. Lallagarh palace is a complete integrated example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, a perfect example of Sir Swinton Jacob’s creations. The Lallgarh Palace has played host to a number of dignitaries from all over the world.
40 Elegantly appointed regal room with all modern day comforts and facilities await the honoured traveler.
The service is an excellent blend of India and international hospitality, with great care taken to impress even the very discerning.
Maharaja Ganga Mahal Bikaner
The Maharaja Ganga Mahal (MGM), a heritage hotel situated right in the heart of Bikaner offers the discerning customer an experience of old world charm with all the modern amenities.
Earlier known as “Raj Bilas”, this palace when constructed in the mid-19th century had the distinction of being the very first palace of the royal family of Bikaner after the historic Junagarh fort. It was then utilized as the residence of the British political agent accredited to the court of the erstwhile State of Bikaner.
An aesthetically renovated heritage property, Maharaja Ganga Mahal overlooks the eastern sector of the Ganga Niwas public park. It presents a panoramic view of the war memorial amidst its fountain garden and the Lily pool. Maharaja Ganga Mahal has an unrivalled position in the heart of Bikaner, a warm and inviting atmosphere, outstanding facilities and cuisine.
The hotel Maharaja Ganga Mahal is ideally suited to business and leisure travelers alike. Conveniently located, it is within walking distance from the historic Junagarh fort, Government public offices, the museum and the circuit house. The railway station, central bus terminus and the main markets are at a distance of a few minutes drive.