Karni Bhawan Palace is a unique kind of historic stay, with the foremost reason being its Art Deco architecture. While the style was still prevalent in the West during the 1940s, when the palace was built, using this type of architecture in Bikaner would certainly count as avant-garde. We could only make inferences as to why the palace's chief patron and resident, Maharaja Karni Singh, chose this style. As a prince, he was well-traveled and well-read; he also served during the Second World War. Perhaps somewhere along the way, he was enchanted by the Art Deco style and wanted to bring it back to his homeland.

His son, Maharaja Narendra Singh, took after his father and built his own palace with Art Deco elements as well. While Karni Bhawan has a more practical and Western design, Narendra Bhawan is much more ostentatious and leans more heavily into traditional Rajasthani Indo-Saracen aesthetics.

While Art Deco is the main aesthetic of Karni Bhawan, the palace still adheres to traditional Rajasthani conventions, such as large interior spaces with very tall ceilings. Guests won't find jalis or jharokhas here, but there will be plenty of historic buildings to visit with those features. Similarly, the gardens are also designed like a European estate's parkland lawn instead of the usual charbagh of Rajasthani nobility.

For its interiors, the traditional Rajasthani decor and Western aesthetics create a cozy vibe that's less about the pomp and more focused on comfort. The majority of the rooms offered are also done in Art Deco style, with plenty of floor space and equipped with lovely and comfy furniture.

For guests traveling with someone who has mobility needs, the hotel also offers wheelchair-accessible rooms. The upper floors of the palace, however, can only be reached via stairs.

Manwar Restaurant

The word manwar refers to hospitality that treats guests with the utmost care and respect, which is exactly what you'll experience here. Guests can indulge in traditional Rajasthani cuisine, prepared using ethnic cooking techniques and made with fresh local ingredients.

Opening hours: 10:30 am - 10:30 pm

Maikada Bar

While the word maikada means 'tavern', you'll enjoy a relaxing lounge-like atmosphere here at the hotel's bar. Sip and savor your favorite drink, or try one of the signature cocktails offered. You could also take the chance to try local wines and traditional Rajasthani liquor if you're feeling adventurous.

Opening hours: 11 am - 10:30 pm

For a unique Indian-style wedding in the Rajasthan desert, be sure to take a look at what Karni Bhawan has to offer. They have a grand and spacious lawn area suitable for traditional Indian wedding festivities with multitudes of guests. Other locations can also be set up, such as a canopy-covered pavilion for the main ceremonies and rituals. For quotes and requests, be sure to contact the hotel via their email or mobile number.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Despite being surrounded by the desert, Bikaner is a lively city rich in history and culture, as well as natural beauty. Immerse yourself in Bikaner's incredible past by visiting the Junagarh Fort, a 16th-century citadel that served as both a military stronghold and royal palace. Aside from its heritage structures, many of its sections have been converted into museums showcasing artworks, armaments, and artifacts. If getting in touch with nature is more your thing, book a trip to the Jorbeer Conservation Reserve, a protected area with many bird and desert animal species.

Now while you're still planning your trip, you should also consider timing it to Bikaner's biggest festivals. One of the most looked forward to every year is the Bikaner Camel Festival, where they parades and performances showcasing the importance of camels to their livelihood and culture.

Other Celebrations

Aside from wedding celebrations, Karni Bhawan Palace is also available for corporate functions and gatherings. They can prepare smaller-scale meeting rooms or set up tables and seating on the lawn for bigger presentations.

If you're instead planning a private celebration, such as for a birthday or anniversary, the hotel will be glad to provide personalized service as well. Be sure to make arrangements by contacting them beforehand. You can celebrate the occasion as a lunch or dinner on the lawn, or at the restaurant. They'll even provide personalized touches such as decorations and a delicious cake.