Bikaner city is the administrative headquarters of Bikaner District and Bikaner division in Rajasthan. Situated in the middle of Thar Desert, the top attractions in Bikaner include the Forts, Palaces and Temples.
Famous temples in Bikaner
Bhandasar Jain Temple
Dedicated to Sumatinath, the fifth Tirthankara of Jainsim, Bhandasar Jain Temple is one of the most popular temples of Bikaner. This 2-storied Jain temple of Bikaner is also known as Bhandreshwar temple and is made out of red sandstone. It is believed that the construction of the temple was commissioned in 1468 by a wealthy merchant, Bhandasa Oswal. The construction continued even after his demise in the year 1514.
This temple is an architectural masterpiece and includes of an antarala, an ardhamandapa, a garbhgriha and a mahamandapa. Detailed paintings can be seen on the pillars and walls of the mandapa and sanctum or pancharatha. These paintings have been adorned with gold leaf patterns. The locals say that instead of mortar, the temple is made with the use of around 40,000 kg of ghee that trickles from the walls during summers. The idol of Lord Sumatinath is made of marble and stands on a throne in silver, which is placed on a 2 ft high pavilion.
The marble pillars of Bhandasar Jain Temple are decked-up with floral arabesque pattern and events reflecting the lives of the 24 Jain Tirthankars. The walls and the floorings contain beautiful dancing images of maidens and multi-colored floral designs. Imported porcelain tiles adorn the linings of tower of the second floor and the main alter. There are a number of chambers containing the idols of other Jain Tirthankars and deities. The mirror-work is the highlight. From the carved balconies of the temple, enjoy mesmerizing views of the surroundings.
Bhandarsar temple is not only a sacred site but is also one of the most popular tourist attractions of Bikaner and is visited by devotees as well as tourists in huge numbers.
LaxmiNath Temple, Bikaner
Lakshmi Nath Temple is one of the oldest temples of Bikaner. The foundation of Bikaner was laid here in the year 1488 A.D. by Rao Bikaji. It being a historical monument has a special identity. This temple was erected during the reign of Rao Lunkaran and boasts of the superb archaeological skills of artists and artisans. It was later developed by Maharaja Ganga Singh Ji. Statues of deities- Vishnu and Laxmi – have all along received the unwavering devotion of countless people through the last four and half centuries.
Shiv Bari Temple
Referred to as Laleshwar Mahadeo by the local people, the Shiv Bari Temple in Bikaner was built by Maharaja Doongar Singhji in the 19th Century.
Built of red sandstone this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple constitutes a four-faced black marble statue of Lord Shiva and a bronze Nandi facing the Shiva Lingam. There are two large water reservoirs called bawaris which are located within the temple. The temple also provides a detailed knowledge about the unique features of Rajasthani architecture. Features like the pavilions, domes and columns impart a great look to the temple, leaving a mesmerizing effect on the spectator.
The exterior of the Shiv Bari Temple Campus is equally beautiful and has the statues of Lord Krishna with the ‘Gopis’. This Temple gets over crowded in the month Shravan (February) when thousands of devotees from all over the country come to visit this temple.
Source:
https://www.tourmyindia.com/states/rajasthan/shiv-bari-temple-bikaner.html
https://www.mapsofindia.com/bikaner/travel-attractions/shiv-bari-temple.html