White and Red stone Cenotaphs stands tall in the history. Known for the architectural marvel, the royal cenotaphs are a treat for historians, photographers and travellers. Soak in the beauty of paintings and carvings on the cenotaph and think of the royal life they used to live although the end is same!
Bikaner, one of the royal cities of Rajasthan, much known for the Karni Mata Temple (Rats Temple), I feel is underrated in terms of tourism. Other cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer are very much popular in the tourist circuit.
Last year i.e in January 2019, we did a road trip from Jaipur to Bikaner and stayed there for around 4 days. You will read my experience of Bikaner in the upcoming posts. This post is dedicated to the land of dusty gem, laid back life, dazzling doorways, bhujia (savoury snack), kachori,and most of all happy people; yes, I am talking about Bikaner. Apart from Junagarh Fort, there are so many attractions like Karni Mata Temple, Gajner Palace, National Research Centre on Camels, Bhandasar Jain Temple and more.
Today in this post, I will be showing you the not much explored destination – The Devi kund Sagar Royal Cenotaphs (Bikaner Raj Parivar Vishram Grah). It is a cremation ground for the royal family of Bikaner. The three enclosures situated around Kalyansagar tank protects the Chhatris (Cenotaphs) and a number of less prominent memorials for Princes, Princesses and so on.
Did you know? The Oldest among all chhatris here is that of Rao Kalyanmalji (1539-1571 AD) who was the fifth ruler of Bikaner and the last cenotaph is of Maharaja Karni Singh (1950-88 AD).
Here stands the two groups of cenotaphs. The royal cenotaphs of early rulers of Bikaner are made in Dulmera Red Stone and marble has been used in the later cenotpahs. The Chhatri (Cenotaph) of a male has a vertical memorial slab, where as that of a female has foot marks engraved on a slab. A memorial erected for a minor is called a ‘Nada’ and it is a simple structure without a canopy.
Feet, The Royal Cenotaphs, Devikund Sagar, Bikaner
Chhatris play an important role in Rajput as well as in Muslim Art. Here, in the chhatris of Raja Rai Singhji and Raja Sur Singhji built in local red sand stone, the style is richer and more elegant. The Chhatris of Raja Karan Singh ji (1675 AD) and Maharaja Anup Singhji (1698 AD) are the finest examples of cenotaphs with architectural exuberance and ornamentation in classic Mughal taste. The cenotaph of Maharaja Anup Singhji stands on 16 pillars and bears carvings depicting act of Lord Krishna, floral patterns, peacocks, and other birds and animals.
The tradition of painting the cenotaphs began with Maharaja Ratan Singhji and the same is evident in his cenotaph. Some of them also have epigraphic memorial stone. There is also a temple in the premises.
- Entry Fees: Rs.5 for Indian Tourists
- Rs.10 for Foreign Tourists
- Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
- Videography is not allowed
I would suggest you to visit in the evening for some amazing light. Although, the Devi Kund Sagar is not well maintained but the cenotaphs are beauty. One can easily spend an hour or so. Lastly, I was mesmerised to see the royalty and ended my visit to the Royal Cenotaphs with a thought – “The song has ended but the melody lingers on!”
Carvings, The Royal Cenotaphs, Devikund Sagar, Bikaner 
Carvings on The Royal Cenotaphs, Devikund Sagar, Bikaner 
Carved Stone at The Royal Cenotaphs, Devikund Sagar, Bikaner 
Cenotaphs, The Royal Cenotaphs, Devikund Sagar, Bikaner 
Painted Ceiling at The Royal Cenotaphs, Devikund Sagar, Bikaner 
The Royal Cenotaphs, Devikund Sagar, Bikaner 
Temple Goddess, The Royal Cenotaphs, Devikund Sagar, Bikaner 
Information about The Royal Cenotaphs, Devikund Sagar, Bikaner 
Information about The Royal Cenotaphs, Bikaner 
Tree outside The Royal Cenotaphs, Bikaner
Nanchi.blog 
Thank for sharing.
Best regards!
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Cheers!
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It seems sleep beautiful. The way you’ve described the important things of Bikaner. I remember, I visited Udaipur back in 2015.
Rajasthan is full of beauty.
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Rajasthan is a beauty in terms of colors, cultures and food. I am glad you liked the Bikaner post. This location is usually missed by many visitors. Give it a try sometimes. I too have been to Udaipur and liked it….:)
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Nanchi, ek baat batao
Esi koi jagah hain jo aap nahi dekhe ho?
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Haha….bahot sari hai. World is too big and the time is less! Passion for travelling and experiencing new locations takes me places. 😀
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😦
Is it being difficult for you in this lockdown?
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You won’t even imagine!
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I can I can. I’m not a traveling person. I’m the opposite of you 🙈🤣😳
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You can only imagine! Hahah…Mr.Writer! I am introvert but in love with nature. Travelling and Food are my passion.
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What do you observe when you go out?
Don’t your phone distract you? Don’t people disturb you?
How do you click so amazing pictures? How do you upload them in a sync?
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I observe the nature, the history, the story behind the place. For eg. If we go to any national park; I am in awe with the creations of god. How it all was made. My imaginations run to infinity. When you follow and focus on you passion; nothing can disturb you. Wait..Wait and Wait until you get the perfect shot; until people are gone. When I weave a story in my mind, I can easily sync them…:)
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You’re so poetic in your thoughts. 😃
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Hai na!? Thank you…:) But unlike you, I can’t weave them in words. I can only let my imagination work.
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Your kindness shows you never forget to compliment na.
That’s why we’re different but same on this platform. To inspire each other.
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🙂 Yes, I agree. Blogging community is so kind and inspiring.
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I went to India in 2016 but sadly I didn’t get to go here, which is a real shame as it looks like a beautiful place and I do love a bit of history.
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I can understand Kacielmorgan; many people miss it. Royal Cenotaphs are not on the usual tourist circuit. Do visit it whenever you are in India. Where all have you been in India?
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I missed visiting this place.
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Yeah, Arv. Alike you, many visitors skip this location and follow the usual route. The Devi Kund might not be well maintained but cenotaphs are a good subject to click photographs. I am sure you will like it. Do visit next time whenever you are in Bikaner. 🙂
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In almost all Pricely states, centopahs are a great place to visit. Thanks for suggestions.
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Yes, absolutely. So much royalty!
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Wow – it looks incredible! Sounds like you had a fab time
Em x
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It indeed is beautiful. Yes, we had a nice time taking pictures. Have you been to India, Emma?
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Beautiful detailed architecture that appears to be enhanced by the passage of time. I like your photos, especially with the blue sky in the background. Gorgeous colors.
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Yes, I like visiting such places which were a part of the history and have some story to tell. I am glad you liked the pictures. Since nobody was there, we enjoyed taking photos. Thank you for dropping by, Ally! ❤
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Wow! It looks magnificent ! Love the photos.
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Thank you so much Veronica for the kind words…:) I am glad you liked the photos. Thanks for dropping by, dear !
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This looks like a beautiful place with lots of history.
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Yes, absolutely. I did not realise, until I visited the Royal Cenotaphs, Bikaner.
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I’ve never been to India but there is so much to see there! I’m glad you shared this wonderful place with us. It’s so beautiful!
Your link is a great addition to ‘My Corner of the World’ this week! Thanks for linking up!
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You can certainly plan a trip to India in the future. I am sure you will love it. Thank you for dropping by….:)
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For long I haven’t been able to fully understand the purpose of these beautiful Cenotaphs, except for decorative or religious purpose. I saw some of them in Amer Fort, Jaipur, as well as in the deserts of Jaisalmer.
Beautifully described article Madam..!! The Cenotaphs in Bikaner appear relatively well preserved and more vibrant in terms of the frescoes, the precise carvings and sculptures. Thank you for explaining the differences between the Cenotaphs constructed during different periods of time.. 🙂
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Wow, this place is breathtaking! Thanks so much for sharing these beautiful images and I love that you take the time to offer all the history of the places you share here.
Shelbee
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I wish to explore more of Rajasthan and India 🙂 Not been out too much.
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Where are you based Saumya? Rajasthan is full of culture and colors, you must visit it. I too wish to cover some parts of India soon! The lockdown has kept me bound, otherwise, I had so many plans! 😦 😦
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Noida, UP. I have always been fascinated by travelling but never got good company and not been able to convince myself to travel alone.
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This place is beautiful, loved all the pictures, great click. I have not visited this place, hopefully sometimes i would love to visit these places. Thank you for sharing.
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It indeed is beautiful and surprisingly not much popular. I am glad you liked the photographs. You must visit Royal Cenotaphs, Bikaner whenever you do a Rajasthan trip! 🙂 I am sure you will like it.
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Wow, this place is really impressive! I’d never heard of it before, surprising as it’s so beautiful!
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The Devi Kund Sagar Royal Cenotaphs are amazing! Do plan visiting them, whenever you come to Bikaner, India! 🙂
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Wow, such a beautiful place! Your photos are amazing! Thanks for linking up!
Emma xxx
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Nice post
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Thanks! 🙂
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