Gajner Lake,Rajasthan
Gajner Lake is a historically significant artificial lake and royal hunting preserve located near Bikaner in Rajasthan. Created and developed during the reign of the Bikaner maharajas (notably associated with Maharaja Ganga Singh), the lake and the adjoining Gajner Palace served as a seasonal hunting lodge and a royal retreat. Today it is important as a scenic water body and as a protected wildlife area (Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary) that supports local fauna and seasonal migratory bird populations.
Places to visit
- Gajner Palace (heritage hotel and former hunting lodge)
- Gajner Lake (scenic water body with boating)
- Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary (deer and small mammals; good for wildlife viewing)
- Birdwatching sites around the lake (winter migratory waterfowl)
- Sunset views and lakeside promenades
Unique Aspects
- A heritage palace converted to a heritage hotel offering lakeside views
- Seasonal arrival of migratory birds, making it a birding hotspot in winter
- Protected wildlife sanctuary habitat for deer species, nilgai and other desert-adapted fauna
- Quiet, scenic setting distinct from the busy urban centre of Bikaner
Things to do
- Boating on Gajner Lake (simple paddle/row boat options)
- Birdwatching and photography (best in winter months)
- Wildlife viewing and short nature walks inside the sanctuary buffer areas
- Staying at Gajner Palace for a heritage experience and lakeside dining
- Picnicking and relaxed lakeside leisure; sunset photography
Best Time to Visit
October to March (cooler weather and peak time for migratory birds and comfortable sightseeing)
Weather Conditions
Hot desert climate: summer (Apr–Jun) can be very hot (often 35–45°C), monsoon (Jul–Sep) brings sparse rainfall, winter (Oct–Mar) is mild to cool with cold mornings/evenings.
Accessibility
Gajner Lake is approximately 30–35 km from Bikaner city by road (roughly a 45–60 minute drive). Nearest major transport hubs: Bikaner Junction railway station and Nal Airport (Bikaner Airport) for limited flights; larger airports at Jodhpur or Jaipur offer more connections. The site is best reached by car, taxi, or organized tour from Bikaner.
Recommended Duration
Half-day to 1 day for a simple visit; overnight if staying at the heritage hotel to enjoy sunrise/sunset and a relaxed experience.
Clothing & Gear Tips
Light, breathable clothing for daytime in warmer months; warm layers for winter mornings/evenings. Bring binoculars, camera, sunscreen, hat, comfortable walking shoes and a water bottle.
Local Food & Souvenirs
Try Rajasthani specialties in nearby Bikaner such as dal baati churma, ker sangri, traditional sweets (e.g., gajak, rasgulla variants). Souvenirs to look for include Bandhani textiles, leather goods, camel-themed handicrafts, and brassware from Bikaner markets.
