Lal Garh Palace

LocationBikaner, Rajasthan
Built By: Maharaja Ganga Singh
Attractions :A unique blend of Rajput, Mughal and European architecture
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Timings: 10:00 A.M. To 05:00 P.M. (Mon-Sat)
Entry Fee: Adult: For Indians Rs. 10, For Foreigners Rs. 20
Accessibility: Easily approachable by hiring local buses, tongas, auto-rickshaws and taxis.

Introduction
Tourists to Bikaner must not miss out the extraordinary Lal Garh Palace. The palace is the most exemplar specimen of Bikaner strive to be the most modern kingdoms. It has served dual purposes of propagating Ganga Singh's attempts to make the city more strong financially and to preserve the heritage of Rajput making a link between the glory of past and the hopes of future. The palace was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in 1902 to commemorate the memories and endeavors of his father Lal Singh. The palace is deemed to be a marvel crafted in red sandstone with lovely latticework (jalis) and filigree (jharokha) work considered to be hallmarks of a great craftsmanship.

Architecture of Lalgarh Palace :
The palace is constructed in red sandstone and adorning the palace is the exquisite lattice work and filigree work. This fantastic palace was given an outline by Sir Swinton Jacob. It stands as a superb example of Rajput, Mughal and European architecture. The fusion of these three styles of architecture gives a surreal quality to the magnificence manifested in great artistry of architecture. The assets of the palace include a well preserved collection of paintings and accolades won on hunting expeditions. The senses get a treat through the vision of lush lawns with trimmed grass carpet. Peacocks express their happiness in the palace by singing and dancing.

Attractions
The palace is a traveler's delight with its beautiful jalis and nakquashi work. Going to the first floor of the palace, will take us to Sri Sadul Museum established in 1976. See the unique collection of artifacts and personal belongings of the rulers of Bikaner. The artifacts resonate the glory and sovereignty of the rulers, the status they enjoyed and the lavish lifestyle they indulged in. You will find a huge collection of books, photographs, manuscripts and albums that span several generations. In front of the palace there is a carriage from the Maharaja's royal train.

Nearby Places

Junagarh Fort: This is one of the most impressive forts in Bikaner, Junagarh Fort. Built by Raja Rai Singh during 1588 to 1593. Later addition of suites and luxurious apartments are to make the palace more massive. It is one such fort that has never been conquered. The sandstone fort is surrounded by a moat. The tourist will love to capture the beauty in the cameras by clicking the beautiful courtyards, balconies, cenotaphs, towers and windows.

Karni Mata Temple: 30 miles to the south of the city lies the much sacred temple of Karni Mata where pilgrims horde to offer their prayers and seek blessings. The unique thing about the temple is that rats are treated with special respect and called kabas the messengers of the mystic goddess.