Lalgarh Palace, Bikaner
This
grand palace is an architectural masterwork in red sandstone, and was built
by Maharaja Ganga Singh Ji in the memory of his father Maharaja Lal Singh Ji
in 1902. Sir Swinton Jacob designed this oriental fantasy. This architecture
is a fusion of Rajput, Mughal and European architecture. The exterior contrasts
dramatically with the oriental interiors and amenities. The palace has beautiful
latticework and filigree work, which are hallmarks of a great craftsmanship.
The Palace has an amazing collection of well-maintained paintings and hunting
trophies. Sprawling lawns with blooming bougainvillea and dancing peacocks make
a visual extravagance.
Designed by a Britisher for Maharaja Ganga Singh, this palace displays a magnificent
blend of Oriental and European style. The terraced lawns and the Bougainvillea
bushes add beauty to the palace. Peacocks stroll around the palace, which has
been partly converted into a hotel.
The intricate filigree work and latticework exhibit the refinements and delicacy
of craftsmanship. The palace museum displays well preserved hunting trophies
and old photographs. The library of the Lalgarh palace is supposed to have the
largest collection of original Sanskrit manuscripts on parchments, copper and
gold or silver plaques.
Built in the memory of maharaja Lal Singh, Lalgarh Palace has a graceful facade
of red sandstone, and is one of Maharaja Ganga Singh’s great achievements.
The maharaja ruled for a period of 56 years. The state especially prospered
under his rule.
In the fort museum which is housed in the red sandstone Ganga Niwas, built during
the reign of Maharaja Sir Ganga Singh, here can be seen a unique collection
of miniature paintings, manuscripts, weaponry and even a world war I bi-plane.
The Lalgarh palace has now been converted into a beautiful hotel. The large
and airy rooms point towards a pervasive British influence, even though the
Welcome group took over it's management in 1993 and made numerous renovations.
The shri Sadul museum forms a part of the palace, and houses vast collections
of books, photographs, manuscripts and albums that span several generations.
