The Laxmi Niwas Palace Bikaner - Bikaner
When you build a palace like none other, not just anyone is invited to stay. Since 1904, only a few have been deemed worthy of a higher order of hospitality – princelings, Europe’s pre-eminent bluebloods, King George V and Queen Mary, a handful of statesmen; a few of the notable architects of history. The world at large had been shut out of the Laxmi Niwas Palace. You may now actually go a step further. Gaze at hand-painted friezes and gold-laden walls. Examine up close the inspiration behind Lutyens’ and Baker’s architectural style. And perhaps reflect on the fact that exclusion does sometimes make a place what it is.
In replicating the grandeur and panoply of the maharajas, we literally went back to photographs from 1937, the time of King George’s visit and the Second Durbar, which was when the Laxmi Niwas Palace was a study in fin de seicle opulence. From authentic chintz to original drapery, objet’d art to Empire furniture, hand-painted walls and gilt-embossed gold paneling, every detail from that halcyon era has been lovingly preserved, within our rooms. However, in none of them have the need for modern conveniences been compromised. Which is what makes the Laxmi Niwas a delight, for curators and holidaymakers alike.
Fancy a couple of sets, after sun-down? Or would rather prefer something like swimming or billiards? Our premises house an illuminated tennis court, as well as another for badminton, croquet lawns, ping pong tables as well as putting greens. The bar offers a plethora of tantalizing tipple, and a glimpse of the spoils of hunting expeditions, from times past. Our chefs draw inspiration from the royal kitchens of Bikaner, while also borrowing liberally from local fare. In as far as where you’d choose to take your meals, we offer a wealth of locales.
From fire dances, to traditional Indian ghazals, kalb elian performers, jugglers and acrobats, to troupes of folk singers, livening up your evenings at our courtyard, takes but a day’s notice. Our performers are camera-and-tourist-friendly, and not averse to teaching you a line, or a step or two, if you’re willing to hum and dance along.
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