Gajner Palace,Rajasthan
Gajner Palace is a former hunting lodge and royal retreat set on the edge of Gajner Lake near Bikaner, Rajasthan. Built and expanded by the Bikaner royal family, it served as a seasonal residence and hunting base. Today the palace and surrounding estate form an important example of Rajput architecture adapted for leisure and wildlife viewing, and the property is a gateway to the adjacent Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary, important for resident and migratory birdlife and for conserving local herbivores like chital and nilgai.
Places to visit
- Gajner Palace (heritage hotel) – the lakeside palace complex with preserved royal rooms, courtyards and terraces
- Gajner Lake – scenic waterbody attracting migratory birds in winter and offering boat rides and sunset views
- Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary – deer park and birding area adjoining the palace grounds, good for wildlife viewing and short safaris
- Royal architecture and interiors – period furnishings, frescoed rooms, carved balconies and landscaped gardens
Unique Aspects
- Lakeside setting with panoramic views and sunsets
- Seasonal migratory bird concentrations (winter months)
- Combination of heritage stay and nature/wildlife experience
- Opportunities for photography, walking trails and guided nature/heritage walks
Things to do
- Stay in a heritage-room or suite and experience royal hospitality
- Birdwatching (especially Nov–Feb) – bring binoculars and a camera
- Boat rides on Gajner Lake at sunrise or sunset
- Guided nature walks and short safaris in the sanctuary to spot deer, nilgai and resident birds
- Photography of architecture, landscapes and wildlife
- Day trips to Bikaner city (forts, temples, markets) and participation in local cultural experiences
Best Time to Visit
October–March for pleasant weather and migratory birds; avoid peak summer (April–June) if you dislike high heat
Weather Conditions
Winters (Nov–Feb): cool to chilly, pleasant days and cold nights; Summers (Apr–Jun): very hot (often >40°C); Monsoon (Jul–Sep): light to moderate rainfall with greener landscapes
Entry Fees & Permits
The palace operates as a heritage hotel and allows guests to access most areas; day visitors may be admitted for dining or tours with prior permission. The adjacent wildlife sanctuary has its own entry fees and timings set by local forest authorities—confirm current charges and visiting hours before travel.
Accessibility
Gajner is about 32 km from Bikaner city. Nearest major transport hubs: Bikaner Junction (railway) and Bikaner Nal Airport (limited services). Larger airports: Jodhpur and Jaipur (longer road/rail transfers). The palace is reachable by road (car or taxi) from Bikaner; onsite parking is available.
Recommended Duration
1–2 nights to enjoy the palace ambience and short wildlife activities; 2–3 nights if combining with Bikaner sightseeing and relaxed birding
Clothing & Gear Tips
Light cotton clothing for daytime in warmer months, warm layers for winter nights; comfortable walking shoes, sunhat, sunglasses, sunscreen, binoculars and a telephoto lens for birding/photography; insect repellent during evenings
Local Food & Souvenirs
Try Rajasthani specialties such as dal-baati-churma, gatte ki sabzi, kachori and lassi. Souvenirs: bandhani textiles, camel leather items, handicrafts, miniature paintings and local embroidered goods available in Bikaner markets