Horse Carriage (Tonga) Tour In The Old City Of Bikaner

board a tonga for a tour through the narrow lanes of the old city. The tour will take you past the richly carved facades of old mansions with large courtyards. The mansions are made of red sandstone and are designed in a mixture of Rajput and Mughal styles of architecture. The projecting balconies and the delicate lattice-work in stone are a sight to behold.

Called the ‘Pride of Bikaner’ by the writer and philosopher Aldous Huxley it stands out for its grandeur, antiquity and exquisiteness. Constructed in the 15th century for a wealthy merchant of the area, this mansion made of red sandstone has an equally tasteful and well-appointed interior. The stone lattice work of the jharokhas (covered balconies) is a mesmerizing sight from the street below. The interiors have a seamless blend of Mughal era carvings to Victorian art forms.

Stop for a photo in front of the old Dholha Haveli. Continue your tour passing through colorful bazaars and watch the locals go about their chores. Jain Temple (30 minutes) The tour also includes a visit to the 15th century Jain Temple. The temple is decorated with rich mirror work, frescoes and gold leaf paintings. According to legend, 88 000 pounds of clarified butter was used instead of water to prepare the mortar for the foundation of the temple. Locals insist that the butter leaks through the walls of the temple on hot days. The temple is made of red sandstone and has beautiful paintings and yellow stone carvings on its walls. Visitors can climb up to the third floor of the temple for some panoramic views of the city of Bikaner. Once your tour will be finished you will be driven back to fixed point / your hotel.