| 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.
|
