Also in Rajasthan is the wildlife sanctuary of Sariska where a royal hunting lodge has been converted into a hotel. Sariska’s wildlife includes the tiger, panther, deer and antelope.

Jaipur

Founded in AD 1727 by Sawai Jaisingh II, Jaipur the capital of Rajasthan is popularly known as the Pink City with broad avenues and spacious gardens. The capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is steeped in history and culture. Here the past comes alive in magnificent forts and palaces, blushed pink, where once lived the maharajas. The bustling bazaars of Jaipur, famous for Rajasthani jewellery, fabric and shoes, possess a timeless quality and are surely a treasure-trove for the shoppers. This fascinating city with its romantic charm takes you to an epoch of royalty and tradition.

The imperial city, replete with amazing legends of romance and heroism. A land where the past thrives still. This is the fortified city of Jodhpur, standing a wary sentinel to the great Thar Desert. Beckoning you to the wilderness of fascinating dunes, rocky terrain and thorny vegetation.

Once the capital city of the Marwar state, it was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodhaji - chief of the Rathore Clan of Rajputs who claimed descent from Lord Rama. A major trade centre of 16th century, the city, today, has grown to become the second largest city of Rajasthan, retaining the medieval splendour.

The city is encompassed by a high wall, 10 km. long with eight gates. Within the city, atop a rocky hill, stands the massive fort, 120 mtrs. above the plains.

Packed with history, art and culture, this princely state is a treasure – trove of some exquisite palaces, forts, temples and havelis – standing a testimony to the imperial grandeur. But what entices the most in Jodhpur is the traditional lifestyle, festivity and smiling people.

• Ajmer:205 km via Beawar
• Agra: 570 km via Ajmer, Jaipur
• Delhi: 636 km via Ajmer, Jaipur, Alwar
• Mumbai: 1013 km via Ahmedabad
• Bikaner: 256 km via Nagaur
• Jaisalmer: 285 km via Osian, Pokaran
• Udaipur: 318 km via Sadri
• Jaipur: 343 km via Ajmer

GENERAL INFORMATION

TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION

• Air : Indian Airlines connect Jaipur with Delhi, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Aurangabad, Bombay, Varanasi, Calcutta, Ahmedabad.
• Rail: Jaipur is connected by rail with Delhi, Agra, Ahmedabad, Ajmer, Abu Road (Mount Abu), Udaipur, Bombay and Sawai Madhopur.
• Road: Good motorable roads connect Jaipur with Delhi 258 km, Agra 236 km, Bikaner 321 km, Udaipur 405 km, Ajmer 131 km, Jodhpur 316 km, Bharatpur  176 km, Jaisalmer 638 km and Bombay 1202 km
• Bus : Regular buses ply from Jaipur to the above places and Alwar, Kota, Sariska, Mathura, Indore, Chittorgarh and Barmer.

CONDUCTED TOURS

Places Visited Timings Fare Reservation
1) Nawab Saheb Ki Haveli, 0800 to Rs.35 R.T.D.C. (Tel: 69714) Hawa Mahal, Amber Palace & Forts, 1300 hrs. Tour starts from Rly. Jal Mahal, City Palace and Museum, Stn./ Gangaur Tourist Observatory, Central Museum (Friday closed) Bungalow (Tel: 60239)
2) --do-- 1300 to 1830 hrs Rs.35 --do--
3) Dolls Museum, Central Museum, 0900 to Rs.55 Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Gaitor, 1830 hrs. Jantar Mantar, Nahargarh, Galta, Jal Mhal, Nawab Saheb Ki Haveli, Amber Palace & Sisodia Vidhyadhar Gardens.

CELEBRATING TIME

Marwar Festival (October)
An annual festival of dance and music, celebrating the classical ’Maand’ style of folk music. The festival brings alive the legend, folklore and romantic lifestyle of Rajasthan’s rulers.

PRIME SITES

Mehrangarh Fort (5 km)
One of the largest forts in India, it is unsurpassed in beauty and grandeur. Innumerable palaces in the fort, interspersed with sprawling courtyards, are intricately carved. Various folk musicians and bands gather here on important occasions and perform against the magical backdrop of the fort – reviving the regal splendour of a bygone era.

Jaswant Thada (5 km)
The 19th century royal cenotaph, a creation in white marble was built in commemoration of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II and displays some rare portraits of Jodhpur’s rulers.

Umaid Bhawan Palace
The only palace built in the 20th century as a famine relief project, which gave employment to hundreds of people for 16 years. Its sculpted lawns with sandstone pavements and bouquets of bougainvillea bushes, offer a lovely sight. The palace now runs as a hotel with a part of it retained as a museum.

Mandore (8 km)
The capital of ancient Marwar, it is truly an oasis in the desert with its beautifully laid out gardens. The sprawling greenery of peepal, banyan, palms and plantains along with swirling fountains and lovely peacocks make Mandore a visual treat, The main attraction is the ’Hall of Heroes’ housing sixteen gigantic figures chiselled out of a single rock and the cenotaphs of the former maharajas of Jodhpur.

Clock Tower and Sardar Market
One can go shopping for Jodhpur tie-and-dye textile, embroidered leather shoes, lacquerware, antiques, carpets and puppets, amidst the setting of traditional haat bazaar at the well planned Sardar Market near the Clock Tower.

Mahamandir Temple (2 km)
Built in 1812, this is an old walled town with few hundred houses. The temple with 84 beautifully carved pillars is an architectural wonder.

Kailana Lake (11 km)
An artificial lake on the Jaisalmer road. An idyllic picnic spot with spectacular sunsets.

Balsamand Lake and Palace (7 km)
A picturesque artificial lake with a summer palace on its banks. There are lush orchards of
mango, guava and other fruits.

SIDE TRIPS

Sardar Samand Lake and Palace (55 km)
As you drive to the lake, the picturesque countryside with lovely villages and smiling folks on the way, offer a spectacular sight. A rendezvous with chinkara and black buck might add more fun to the drive.

Osian (65 km)
An ancient town of the Thar Desert, renowned for a cluster of ruined Brahmanical and Jain temples dating from 8th to 11th century. The most important temples are the Surya or Sun Temple and the Sachiya Mata Temple. The latter has a ’shikhar’ clustered by a row of tarrets, an ambulatory and a large assembly hall with an elaborate ceiling.

Guda Bishnoi (25 km)
These are immaculately kept villages of Bishnoi community-staunch believers in the sanctity of plant and animal life. Khejri trees and varieties of deer are the attractions of the villages.

WHAT TO SEE

City Palace & Museum 3.5 kms, Hawa Mahal 3 kms, Jantar Mantar 3.5 kms, Dolls Museum, Zoo, Amber Pal & Jaigarh Fort 11 kms, Gaitor 8 kms, Vidhyadharji Ka Bagh 7 kms, Jal Mahal, Nawab Ki Haveli, Galta, Sisodia Palace & Garden 8 kms.

EXCURSIONS

Nahargarh Fort 15 kms, Sanganer 16 kms, Ramgarh Lake 30 kms and Shekhawati 168 kms.

INFORMATION CENTRES

1. Government Of India Tourist Office, State Hotel, Jaipur-302001. Tel: 72200.
2. Government Of Rajasthan Tourist Bureau, Railway Station, Tel: 69714.

Ajmer

Founded in 1100 AD by Aijpal Chauhan, Ajmer derives its name from `Ajaya Meru' the invincible hill, at the foot of which the present city stands.

Season : September to April.

TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION

• Air : Nearest Airport Jaipur is Jaipur (138 kms).
• Rail: Ajmer is connected by rail to Delhi, Agra, Ahmedabad, Barmer, Bharatpur, Bikaner, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Mount Abu and to Bombay Via Ahmedabad.
• Road: Ajmer is well connected by road with Agra (370 km), Bharatpur (312 km), Bikaner (234 km), Bundi (139 km), Chittaurgarh (182 km), Delhi (444 km), Jaipur (138 km), Jaisalmer (458 km), Jodhpur (205 km), Kota (178 km), Mount Abu (371 km) and Udaipur (269 km).
• Bus : Rajasthan State Trans. Corpn. Buses connect Ajmer with the above places.

WHAT TO SEE

Adhai-Din-Ka-Jhonpra, Ana Sagar Lake, Circuit House, Dargah of  Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, Soniji ka Nasiyan, Mayo College, Swami Dayanand Saraswati Smarak, Taragarh Fort and the Museum. Pushkar 11 kms, Foy Sagar Lake 12 kms and Kishangarh 27 kms.

INFORMATION

R.T.D.C. Tourist Information Bureau, Khadim Tourist Bungalow, Near Railway Station, Tel : 20795.

Pushkar Fair

There is a temple dedicated to lord Brahma on the lake side. Mammoth Pushkar fair is held here every autumn ( October / November ).Pushkar Fair Dates : Nov 26-29, 1993; Nov 15-18, 1994; Nov 4-7, 1995.

Udaipur

A famous city of Rajasthan state, standing on the banks of lake Pichola with white marble palaces. Udaipur is one of the most romantic cities of India.

Season : Throughout the year. Best season from October to March.

TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION

• Air : I. A. connects Udaipur with Bombay, Delhi, Jodhpur, Jaipur, Aurangabad.
• Rail: Udaipur is connected by rail with Ahmedabad, Chittorgarh, Bombay via
• Ahmedabad, Delhi and Jaipur.
• Road: By road Udaipur to Ahmedabad 262 km, Bombay 739 km, Delhi 670 km, Jaipur
• 407 km, Chittorgarh 115 km and Mount Abu 185 km.
• Bus : Regular bus services connect Udaipur to Ahmedabad, Chitorgarh, Eklingji,
• Falna, Jaisamad, Kankroli, Mt. Abu, Nathdwara, Ranakpur & Rishabhdeoji.

CONDUCTED TOURS

R.T.D.C. conducts daily sight-seeing tours of Udaipur and   excursion tours of Haldighati, Nathdwara and Eklingi from  Kajri Tourist Bungalow, Shastri Circle, Tel : 29509.

1) City Tour : 0830-1300 hrs. Fare Rs.25 per head (Exclusive of Entrance Fee)
2) Excursion : 1400-1900 hrs. Fare Rs.65 per head.
3) Ranakpur & Kumbhalgarh : 0800-1800 hrs. Fare Rs.135.

EXCURSION

Kankroli 64 km, Eklingli 21 km, Haldighati 42 km (RSTDC Rest House) Jaisamand Lake 50 kms ( RSTDC Hotel Jaisamand ), Nathdwara 42 kms  ( RSTDC Hote Gokul ), Ranakpur 90 kms ( RSTDC Hotel Shilpi ), Rishabhdeo 65 kms ( RSTDC Hotel Gauri ).

TOURIST INFORMATION

Tourist Information Bureau, Govt. of Rajasthan, Kajri Tourist Bungalow, Shastri Circle, Uadaipur, Tel : 29509.

Chittorgarh

The history of Chittor is one of the most stirring chapters in Indian history for it was there that the flower of Rajput chivalry sprang to life and the immense stretch of its sacred walls and ruined palaces relate the saga of innumerable sieges and heroism which has almost become a myth now. Western railways connect Chittorgarh on the metre guage with Ajmer, Delhi, Jaipur, Ratlam, Udaipur. However the convenient railhead is Udaipur. Rajasthan State Roadway Transport Corporation operates regular bus service from Agra 557 kms, Ajmer 182 kms, Delhi 578 kms, Jaipur 320 kms, Jodhpur, Kota 000 kms, Mount Abu 390 kms and Udaipur 115 kms to Chittaurgarh.

PLACES OF INTEREST

Fort, jay Stambha, Kirti Stambha, Rana-Kumbha Palace, Padmini Palace, Meera Temple and Kumbha Shyam Temple and Kalika Mata Temple, State Archaeological Museum. Nagari: 14 kms. An ancient town in Rajasthan, it is situated north of Chittor. According to excavation, a civilisation tourished here from the Maurya to the Gupta dynasty. Notable excavations are these having both the serenity of Hinduism and the sacrifice of Buddhism. Excavations are continuing.

TOURIST INFORMATION

1) Tourist Information Bureau, Janta Tourist Rest House, Near Railway Station, Tel: 9. Timings 0800 - 1730 hrs
2) Rajasthan Tourism Development Corpn., Panna Tourist Bungalow, Tel: 273. Timings 0800 hrs. to 1730 hrs.

Mount Abu

Famous for its exquisitively carved marble temples, Mount Abu (1219 metres) is a pretty hill resort in the State of Rajasthan.

Best Season : Mid-March to June and Mid-September to December

TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION

• Air : Nearest airports are Udaipur and Ahmedabad.
• Rail: Nearest railhead is Abu Road (27 kms).
• Road: By road Mount Abu to Ahmedabad 214 kms, Bombay 835 kms, Delhi 768 kms, Jaipur 515 kms, Udaipur 182 kms, Jodhpur 291 kms, Ranakpur 168 kms.
• Bus : Regular buses connect Mount Abu with Abu Road, Achalgarh, Ahmedabad, Ranakpur, Ahmedabad, Udaipur, Abu Road. Toll Tax : Rs. 3/- for visitors to Mount Abu by Car. Vehicle Tax : Car Rs. 5/-, Bus Rs. 10/-
• Taxi: Taxis and Jeeps are available from Abu Road to Mount Abu.

CONDUCTED TOURS

Places Covered Timings Fare Operator/Reservation
Dilwara, Achalgarh, Guru Shikar, 0800-1330 Rs.35 R.T.D.C., C/O Shikar
Nakki Lake, Sun-set Point, and Tourist Bungalow,
Omshanti, Adhar Devi. 1400-1900 Tel : 3169, 3129.

WHAT TO SEE

Adhar Devi Temple, Andhra Point (Honeymoon Point), Dilwara Jain Temple (Open from 1200 hrs. to 1800 hrs for non Jains), Gaumukh, Nakki Lake, Red Temple, Shri Raghunathji Temple, Sunset Point, Traver's Tank.

EXCURSIONS

Ambaji 50 km, Achalgarh 11 km, Guru Shikar 15 km, Ranakpur 168 km.

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE

Tourist Information Bureau, Govt. of Rajasthan, Opp. to Bus Stand, Mount Abu, Tel : 51.

Jodhpur

Encircled by a stone wall, Jodhpur City was founded in 1459 by Roa Jodha, the chief of the Rathore clan of Rajputs & was the capital of the State of Marwar.

Season : October to February

TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION

• Air : Indian Airlines connect Jodhpur with Jaipur, Delhi, Udaipur and Bombay.
• Rail: Jodhpur is connected by rail with Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Jaipur, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Abu Road, Bombay via Ahmedabad Barmer and Udaipur via Marwar.
• Road: By road Jodhpur to Agra 577 kms, Ajmer 198 kms, Barmer 220 kms, Bikaner 240 kms, Bombay 1073 kms, Delhi 592 kms, Jaipur 343 kms, Jaisalmer 290 kms, Mount Abu 264 kms, Udaipur 275 kms, Ranakpur 175 kms.
• Bus : Regular bus services available from Jodhpur to Ahmedabad, Ajmer, Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Ranakpur and Nathdwara.

CONDUCTED TOURS

Places Covered Timings Fare Operator
1) Umaid Bhavan Palace, Mandore Gardens, 0930 to Rs.30 R.T.D.C., Maherangarh Fort, Jashwant Thada, 1300 hrs Ghoomar Government Museum. Tel: 21900
2)  1400-1830 hrs. Rs.30

Jaisalmer

Golden splendour amid the desert

Jaisalmer – the golden beauty, etched in yellow sandstone. Perched atop the Trikuta Hill, it stands tall against miles of gleaming sand. Epitomising the desolate, awesome charm of the desert.

Jaisalmer, the city of the golden fort is a fantasy in yellow sandstone in the heart of the Thar Desert. The city was founded in 1156 by Rawal Jaisal, a Bhatti Rajput King.

Legend has it, that Lord Krishna – the head of Yadav Clan, foretold Arjuna that a remote descendent of Yadav Clan would build his kingdom atop the Trikuta Hill. His prophecy was fulfilled, when in 1156 AD Rawal Jaisal, a descendant of Yadav Clan and a Bhatti Rajput, founded the city of Jaisalmer.

This amber-hued city, in the heart of the desert, dazzles gloriously in the early morning. The sunset has a peculiar glow here. As the night descends, the sky goes up in flames, which fade leaving a few embers, till it becomes black. A breathtaking sight indeed!

Jaisalmer is famous for cobbled streets, strewn with palaces, forts, temples and havelis. Every house, here, is exquisitely carved, having filigreed work all over. These houses date back to 12th – 15th century. And hence Jaisalmer is called ’the Museum city’.

Filled with colour, festivity and smiles, Jaisalmer is truly a memorable experience across the shimmering sands.

PRIME SITES

Jaisalmer Fort
Renew yourself amid the past galore, as you visit the commanding Jaisalmer Fort. The fort stands guard over the desertscape from its 250 feet high perch on the hill with its wall following the contours of the hills. The steep cobblestone pathways leading to the royal palace pass through four gates. The sharp twists and turns make the fort invincible. The fort has five interconnected palaces with ’jaali’ screens and dainty ’jharokhas’ – all showpieces of Jaisalmer artisans’ talent.

Within the fort are three exquisitely sculptured Jain temples,

Gadsisar Lake
A rain water lake, adorned with an arched gateway. Many small shrines and temples are festooned a11 around the lake. Today, it is an ideal picnic spot, famous for boating.

Salim Singh-ki-Haveli
Witness the legendary architectural wealth of Jaisalmer at Salim Singh’s haveli, truly unsurpassed in splendour. Of particular note are the blue roof and rows of peacocks below the arched balconies. The haveli was once the residence of the Mohta family, ministers of Jaisalmer rulers.

Patwon-ki-Haveli
It is the grandest mansion in Jaisalmer, not to be missed at all. This five haveli wonder has its ceiling supported by exquisitely carved pillars and its delicately chiselled balconies surely leave you mesmerised.

Nathmalji-ki-Haveli
This haveli was carved by two brothers. One worked on right side and the other on left, but the harmony in design exists still. Screened windows, projected balconies and intricate carvings illustrate superb craftsmanship.

Jain Temples – Within the citadel are the splendorous Jain temples, dedicated to Rishabdevji, Sambhavnathji and Parshvanathji.

The Parshvanathji Temple is the oldest and the most beautiful of the Jain temples. Human and animal figures are carved on the walls of its sanctum and the rising dome or ’shikhar’ is crowned by an amalak and a waterpot containing a lotus flower.

Gyan Bhandar or Library
A part of the Jain temples, the library contains some of the oldest manuscripts of India.

SIDE TRIPS

Lodurva (16 km)
A trip to this important pilgrimage centre for Jains, once the ancient capital of Jaisalmer rulers, is a rewarding experience. A masterpiece of architectural grandeur is ’Toran’ or the ornate arch at the main entrance with its exquisite carvings. ’Kalpatru’ or the divine tree is another attraction.

Sam Sand Dunes (42 km)
No trip to Jaisalmer is complete without a visit to the most picturesque dunes. The ripples on the wind-caressed dunes create enchanting mirages – a photographer’s delight. Various cultural programmes are organised against the backdrop of these fascinating dunes. Adventure freaks can go out on a camel safari - getting the real feel of the desert on the camel-back.

Wood Fossil Park (17 km)
This park, lying on the Barmer Road, takes you back to the jurassic period with 180 million year old fossils, which are the geological landmarks for the study of the Thar Desert.

Desert National Park
Come, see the rolling landscape of the Sam sand dunes. Head on for a wild experience, as you may encounter the Indian Gazelle, Chinkara Eagle and exotic avian variety in this 3000 sq. km. vast protected Biosphere Reserve. The park lies to the south-west of Jaisalmer.

CELEBRATING TIME

The Desert Festival (February)
During the three day long festival, Jaisalmer reverberates with music, colour and joy, displaying its glorious past and rich culture. Under the full moon, the vigorous folk dancers sway to the enchanting music. The turban tying contest and Mr. Desert contest add to the enthusiasm. A trip to Sam sand dunes, where one can view folk musicians performing and even enjoy a camel safari, marks the finale of this colourful extravaganza.

ACCESS

• Air: The nearest airport is Jodhpur (285 km)
• Rail: Jaisalmer is connected with Jodhpur by night train service.
• Road: Well connected by road with all the major cities of India. Direct bus services to Udaipur, Mount Abu, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Barmer, Ajmer and Jaipur. Ahmedabad and Bhuj (Gujarat),

DISTANCES TO IMPORTANT CITIES

• Jodhpur 285 km Via Pokaran
• Bikaner 325 km Pokaran 112 km
• Barmer 153 km
• Delhi 897 km
• Jaipur 638 km

GENERAL INFORMATION

Altitude: 225 mtrs. Best season: July to March, Rainfall: 30 cms. Climate: Extremely hot summers with maximum temperature touching 47 ’C. Cold winters – min 1’C
Clothing: Summer Tropical Winter Woollen
Season : October to February

CONDUCTED TOUR

Places covered Fare Operator/ Resvn.
The Fort, Jain Temples, Daily Rs.30/- R.T.D.C.,
Gyan Bhandar, Garhisisar. Oct. to March. Tel: 106.

WHAT TO SEE

Fort, Jain Temple, Gyan Bhandar, Garhsisar, Salim Sing Ki Haveli, Patwon ki Haveli, Nathmalji ki Haveli & Amar Sagar, Mool Sagar.

EXCURSIONS

Devikot (40 kms), Ramdeora (150 kms), Sam Sand Duna (42 kms), Lodhruva (17 kms), Bada Bagh (6 kms), Wood Fossil Park (17 kms), Desert National Park (40 kms), Barmer (153 kms).

INFORMATION CENTRE

Tourist Officer, Tourist Bungalow, Tel: 106, Jaisalmer.

Bikaner

Founded in 1488, Bikaner is a desert built on an elevation and surrounded by a long embattled wall pierced by five gates. A magnificient fort built betwen 1588 & 1593 by Raja Raj Singh dominates the city. Season: October to March.

Sheer beauty in the desert is the royal fortified city of Bikaner. Lying at the northern tip of the famous triangle of the desert cities, Bikaner stands on a slightly raised ground and is circumscribed by a long embattled wall having five entrance gates.

The genesis of Bikaner dates back to 1488, when a Rathore prince, Rao Bikaji, son of Rao Jodhaji of Jodhpur, chose a barren wilderness called ’Jangladesh’ and transformed it to a charming city called ’Bikaner’, after the founder’s name. Its location on the ancient caravan routes, which linked Central Asia and North India with the Gujarat seaports, made Bikaner a bustling trade centre in the times of yore.

Bikaner’s forts, palaces and temples – magnificent creations in red and yellow sandstone, are living manifestations of its rich historical and architectural legacy. One can feel the medieval aura pervading the city’s lifestyle.

Not only do the traditions come alive here in colourful bazaars and havelis, but Bikaner is also famous for the best riding camels in the world. One can witness gaily caparisoned camels at the spectacular Camel Festival at Bikaner, held annually.

PRIME SITES

Junagarh Fort
Revel in the architectural splendour, as you take an intimate look at this imposing fort, built by Akbar’s contemporary Raja Rai Singh. Within the fort are thirty seven palaces, pavilions Suraj Pol or the Sun Gate is the main entrance to the fort. The palaces worth visiting are Chandra Mahal, Phool Mahal and Karan Mahal. The palaces, exquisitely built in red sandstone and marble are ornate with mirror work, carvings and paintings. An array of kiosks and balconies embellish the fort at intervals, breaking the monotony. A museum with valuable miniature paintings and rare antiques is also located in the Junagarh Fort.

Lalgarh Palace
The magnificent fort in red sandstone, a fascinating juxtaposition of the Oriental style and European luxury that leaves you truly mesmerised. Designed by Sir Swinton Jacob for Maharaja Ganga Singh almost -90 years ago, this is an extraordinary monument. The palace has a billiards room, a library, a cards room and a smoking room. Belgian chandeliers, cut – glass ornaments, oil paintings and lamps add to its charm.

Bhandeshwar Jain Temples
(5 km) Beautiful 16th century Jain temples, dedicated to the 23rd Tirthankar Parshvanathji.

Other important temples of Bikaner include the Lakshminathji, Ratan Bihariji, Shiv Bari, and Nagnechiji temple. The Bhaironji Temple at Kodamdesar, about 40 kms from Bikaner, is another noteworthy temple.

SIDE TRIPS

Short excursions to the places of cultural and architectural interest around Bikaner can certainly add more fun to your trip. Some of them being:

Camel Breeding Farm (8 km)
Acquaint yourself with the indispensable ship of the desert at this camel research and breeding centre, the only one of its kind in Asia.

Devi Kund (8 km)
This is a royal crematorium with cenotaphs of the house of Bikaji Rathore. Many decorated Chhatris, built in the memory of the Bika dynasty, offer splendid example of the Rajput architecture.

Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary and Palace
Watch flocks of imperial sand grouse, as you wander through the lush foliage of woods located on the Jaisalmer road. Gajner is also home to nilgai, chinkara, wild boar and black buck. Gajner Palace, a summer resort of kings built on the beautiful lake along the sanctuary, is a spot worth visiting.

Karni Mata Temple, Deshnoke (30 km)
Offer your prayers to Karni Mata – an incarnation of goddess Durga, at this 600 year old temple. The temple offers a haven to rats. Devotees feed the rats, owing to the belief that these rodents will be reincarnated as holy men. The entrance archway of the temple is intricately carved in marble.

Kolayat (50 km)
A sacred spot, dedicated to Kapil Muni. The temple here is the venue for a fair in the month of Kartik (Oct.- Nov.), attracting thousands of pilgrims. Kolayat is an idyllic picnic spot as well.

Shiv Bari Temple (6 km)
Built in the 19th century by Maharaja Doongar Singhji, the temple is encircled by a high wall. Beautiful paintings and a Nandi Bull facing the Shiva Lingam are the attractions of the temple.

Havelis
An array of havelis, built in red stone and intricately carved, embellish the city.

Kalibanga (205 km)
The remnants of the pre-Harappan and Harappan settlements have been found at this place in Hanumangarh District. Surely of interest to archaeology enthusiasts.

CELEBRATING TIME

Camel Festival (January)
Held in the month of January every year on the full moon night, the festival is dedicated to the indispensable ship of the desert. A fascinating spectacle of camel performances. Camel races, camel dances and camel rides, along with the joy, colour and vigour unique to Rajasthan, make this a joyous event.

Kolayatji Fair (October)
Held in October-November at Kolayat (53 km. from Bikaner). Devotees throng here in large numbers to take a holy dip in the Kolayat Lake on the full moon of Kartik or Poornima and offer prayers to Karni Mata.

DISTANCES TO IMPORTANT CITIES

Delhi 510 km via Ratangarh, Sardarshahar and Hissar
Jodhpur 256 km. via Nokha, Nagaur
Jaisalmer 325 km via Phalodi and Pokaran

GENERAL INFORMATION

Altitude: 237 mtrs.
Best Season: July-March
Rainfall: 44 cm
Climate Summer Mean Max. 44 ’C Mean Min. 28 ’C Winter Mean Max. 23.2 ’C Mean Min. 10 ’C
Clothing Summer Light tropical or cotton Winter Woollen

TRANSPORT & COMMUNICATION

• Air : Nearest Airport is Jodhpur 240 kms.
• Rail: Bikaner is connected by rail with Delhi, Jaipur and Jodhpur.
• Road: Bikaner to Delhi 949 km,Jaipur 316 km,Jodhpur 240 km & Jaisalmer 330 km.

CONDUCTED TOUR

Places covered Fare Operator/Resvn.
Junagadh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, Daily Rs.30 R.T.D.C.,
Ganga Golden, Jublee Museum & Parks Oct-March Tel: 5445,4595.

WHAT TO SEE

Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum.

EXCURSION

Bhand Sagar Temple 5 km, Camel Breeding Farm 10 km, Devi Kund 8 km, Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary 32 kms, Deshnok's Karniji Temple 33 kms.

INFORMATION
(1) Information Centre, Ghinani Area, Circuit House, Tel: 4595.
(2) Tourist Officer, Tourist Bungalow, Tel: 5445.

Ranthambor (Sawai-Madhopur Wildlife Sanctuary)

Nestling at the foot of Aravalli Hills is Ranthambor National Park, a famous tiger reserve under Project Tiger. Ranthambor blends history of Rajput valour with scenic natural beauty and is an ideal gateway for a quiet holiday.

Season : November to May

TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION

• Air : Nearest airport is Jaipur (175 kms).
• Rail: Nearest railhead is Sawai-Madhopur (12 kms) which is on the Bombay-Delhi section of Western Railway.
• Road: Ranthambore is connected by regular bus service to Sawai-Madhopur 12 km, Agra 226 km, Bharatpur 166 km, Delhi 434 km, Kota 217 km, Jaipur 180 km.
• Local Transport : Private Horse driven tongas are available at the Railway Station. R.T.D.C. or private jeeps can be hired from Tourist Information Bureau, Sawai-Madhopur. Charges Rs.350-400 for full jeep for one trip to the National Park.

PLACES OF INTEREST & EXCURSIONS

Amreshwar Mahadev 8 kms, Mahavirji 110 kms, Kela Devi 125 kms, Shivad 30 kms, Khandar 60 kms, Rameshwaram 90 kms in Khandar Area.

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE

Tourist Officer, Tourist Information Bureau (Project Tiger), Government of Rajasthan, Sawai-Madhopur 320 001, Tel: 2223 ( P.P.)

BARMER

"Vestibule of the Rajasthani Culture"

Tiny yet lively town in the desert, Barmer is all colour, warmth and tradition. As you visit this tiny town, colourfully attired natives welcome you with a bright smile.

Renowned for intricate embroidery work, multi - hued traditional costumes and block printing of textiles, Barmer is a shopper’s delight. The city is also famous for carved wood furniture.

Every year in the month of March, Barmer is at its colourful best during the exuberant Barmer Festival – a perfect time to visit this desert town.

Balotra and Kanana

Kanana is the venue for the Sheetla Saptmi Mela and is close to Balotra known for its textile printing and dying work.

HERITAGE HOTELS

Rajasthan – the land of maharajas, of forts and palaces, of romantic havelis, is drenched in royalty. Each monument here echoes with rich architectural grandeur. To allow the travellers a glimpse into the lavish opulence of the royal land, most of these palaces and havelis have been converted into Heritage Hotels. With their impeccable services, they offer unparalleled luxury, as you enjoy the regal lifestyle during your stay - feeling like a real maharaja.

The number of heritage hotels is increasing day by day. Each with its own magical charm and traditional decor. All in all a unique experience.

For details on the Heritage Hotels contact: Govt. of India Tourist Office, Khasa Kothi Hotel, M.l. Road, Jaipur – 302 001. Rajasthan, INDIA. Tel./Fax: 0141 – 372200. Or Director of Tourism Govt. of Rajasthan Govt. Hostel, M.l. Road, Jaipur, Rajasthan INDIA. Tel: (0141) 370180/371142 Fax: (0141) 376362. Or Heritage Hotels Association 9, Sardar Patel Marg, C-Scheme, Jaipur, Rajasthan INDIA Tel: (0141) 381590, 382214.

Alwar

Alwar with its historic fort, palaces & beautiful gardens offers an unforgettable experience. The medieval fort crowning a scarped hill. Over looks the town below. Alwar was founded by Rao Pratap Singh in 1775 A.D.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Area : 8.2 sq.km.
Altitude : 268 mts.
Climate : Summer Max. 37 Deg C Min. 24 Deg C Winter Max. 31 Deg C Min. 11 Deg C
Rainfall : 63.5 cms.
Best Season : October to March.

TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION

• Air : The nearest airport is Jaipur (143 km).
  Fare : Bombay - Jaipur Rs.2015/-
• Rail : Alwar is connected by rail with all the major cities of India.
  Fare : Bombay - Alwar via Ahmedabad Ist Class Rs.699/- IInd Class Rs.224/-
• Road : Good motorable roads connect Alwar with all the major cities of India. Some road distances are Agra (150 km), Deeg (61 km), Bharatpur (94 km), Jaipur (143 km), Udaipur (566 km), Delhi (164 km), Siliserh (15 km), Sariska (37 km).
• Local Transport : Cycle - rickshaw and tongas are available.

PLACES OF INTEREST

City Palace, Museum, Puran vihar, Sagar (tank) Bala Fort, Vinay Vilas Mahal.

EXCURSION

Siliserh : 15 km. Set quietly against wooded hills. Siliserh is famous for its Lake and enchanting Palace. This resort overlooking the lake is converted into a hotel. A motor launch is available for cruising on the lake.

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE

Tourist Information Bureau, Information Centre, Near Purjan Vihar Garden, Alwar. Tel: 21868.
Rajasthan Tourism Development Corpn. 230 D.N. Road, Fort, Bombay - 400 001 Tel : 2044162

BHARATPUR-DEEG

Bharatpur, an impregnable fortified city is today famous for the nearby Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary. Once the shooting preserve of royalty,   it is perhaps the most spectacular water-bird sanctuary in India.

Area : 22 sq. km Altitude : 205 metres
Climate : Summer Max. 45 C Min. 37 C Winter Max. 31 C Min. 21 C
Season : October to February

TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION

• Air : The nearest airport, Agra is 54 kms. However, convenient airports from Bombay are Jaipur (174 km) and Delhi (182 km) since there are no direct flights to Agra from B'bay.
• Rail : Bharatpur is on Bombay-Delhi sector of Western Rly.
• Road : Bharatpur is well connected by good motorable roads to Agra (54 km), Delhi (182 km), Fatehpur Sikri (20 km), Jaipur (174 km), Mathura (36 km) and Sariska (130 km).
• Local Transport/Sightseeing
  For local sightseeing, tongas and cycle-rickshaws are available.
  Within the sanctuary, mini buses are operated by the Forest Rest House.
  Please Contact: The Deputy Chief Wildlife Warden, Forest Rest House, Tel:2265.
  Entry Fees : Foreigners Rs.10/- Indian Rs.2/-
  Entry Fees for Vehicles : Car: Rs.5/-; Jeep- Rs..10/- Bus Rs.15/-
  Mini bus (21 persons) Rs.30/- Bus Rs.50/-
  Fees for Photography : All 35 mm cameras: Rs.200/-
  Amateurs : Rs.10/- (8 mm cameras)
  Rs.25/- (16 mm cameras)
  Professonals: Rs.100/- (8 & 16 mm cameras)

PLACES OF INTEREST

Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary - 3 Km. Also known as the Keoladeo Ghanga Sanctuary, it is famous for rare avian species. Stretching over a 29 sq. km. marshy area it is an ideal terrain for migratory birds. Some 353 species live and breed within the park, some of which are egrets, darters, cormorants, grey herons, sarus crane, siberian crane, rosy headed pelican etc. There are also a number of spotted deer, sambar, nilgai, wild boar, python and porcupine. Jeepable roads that form a network through the marshland and boats that canbe painted through weeds make for easy viewing of the birds. All visitors are required to obtain a permit from the Warden or Ranger at the entrance of the parl.Bharatpur Fort-This magnificient 18th century fort built by Raja Suraj Mal was also known as Loha Gadh and proved to be impregnable. Government Museum- The museum in the fort houses sculptures, inscriptions and exhibits of art and culture of the region. Bharatpur Palace - This royal monument is a brilliant blend of Mughal and a Rajput architecture. There is also a museum in the central wing with a few exhibits dating to the 2nd century A.D.

EXCURSIONS

Deeg (32 km): Renowned for its forts, palaces and beautiful Mughal gardens this used to be the royal summer resort of the rulers of Bharatpur, Deeg is 35 km from Mathura, 75 km from Alwar and 152 km from Delhi.

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE

Tourist Information Bureau, Rajasthan Tourist Office Sarus Tourist Bungalow, 230 D.N. Road. Tel: 2044162. Agra Road, Bharatpur - 321 001 Tel. 2340.