Gajner
Palace, an incomparable jewel in the
Thar Desert is built on the embankment of a lake.
Built by H.H. Maharaja Sir Ganga Singhji of Bikaner,
this Grand Heritage property is spread over 6000
acres. Gajner Palace was used
as a hunting resort by the former Maharajas and
visiting British dignitaries during the days of
the Raj. During the reign of Maharaja Ganga Singhji,
this palace was used for grand shoots and lavish
entertainment. Christmas season was often celebrated
with prearranged duck and Imperial Sand Grouse
shoots. Royalty, both, National and International,
Viceroys and other dignitaries were invited on
this grand occasion.
Gajner Palace now has a private
wildlife sanctuary, which is home to endangered
antelopes like the chinkara, black buck, neelgai
and other animals. During winter months, the lake
becomes home to more than a hundred species of
migratory birds, including the Imperial Sand Grouse.
While at Gajner Palace, one can
see the photographs of the days of the Raj which
have been meticulously arranged in the corridors.
Each suite has been carefully restored to its
original grandeur; right from the furniture to
the wall paper, every little detail has been recreated.
During the stay at Gajner Palace,
one should try a camel, horse or a jeep safari
into the wildlife sanctuary. The wildlife is plentiful
and the best time for the safari is the early
morning or the evenings when the wildlife flocks
to the lake to drink water.
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