Bikaner

Lying in the north of the desert state the city is surrounded by sand dunes, some mighty and others of mild gradients.

The strategic location of Bikaner on the ancient Caravan routes of West and Central Asia made it the prime trade Centre in by-gone years. Then, as in now, the camel became irreplaceable, be it as a beast of burden for transporting groins, working on wells, or simply as a mode of transport.

Bikaner’s history dates bock to 1488 A.D. when the Rathore prince, Rao Bikali – son of the founder of Jodhpur (1459 AD.), Rao Jodhaji, established his kingdom here. Of all his five siblings, Rao Bikoji, the most enterprising, chose the barren wilderness called Janglodesh and transformed it into a most impressive city.

The old city of Bikaner stands on a slightly raised ground encircled by an embaffled wall with five gates. Till today, its magnificent forts and palaces built with reddish- pink sandstone, bear testimony to its rich and architectural legacy. Walk through the citys lanes and colourful bazaars. Meet its cheerful folks and transport yourself to another place,

another time.