Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary

Situated in the desert, Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary has a lot to offer to the tourists who have a keen interest in the flora and fauna of a particular region. Hence, this wildlife sanctuary is slowly gaining popularity among the travellers who are indeed getting an experience of a lifetime.

At a distance of 32 km from Bikaner, Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary in Bikaner is a natural haven on the shores of a Gajner Lake, near Gajner Palace. It is one of the famous wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan and also one of the prime places to visit in Bikaner.

Nestled atop a small hill, Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary is an oasis and reserve enriched in flora and fauna with dense green forest cover. The sanctuary was earlier used as a hunting ground by Maharaja Sri Ganga Singh of Bikaner. There is a beautiful lake in the sanctuary, which apart from complementing the beauty is used by the animals living here to quench their thirst. This is one of the proposed forests for Cheetah reintroduction in India.

The interesting part of this sanctuary is the beautiful Gajner Palace which has been converted into a heritage and luxury hotel now. The Gajner Palace hotel earlier used to house the Maharaja and his revered guests including Viceroys and other prominent figures who were invited for annual sand grouse hunting activity.

The lake at Gajner attracts water birds in thousands which include Imperial Sand Grouse, Indian Houbara Bustards, Water fouls, Demoiselle Cranes and other varieties of migratory birds. Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary is also home to black buck, chinkara, antelope, wild boars, deer, wild fowls, neelgai (blue bull) and desert foxes which roam amidst lush gardens, wooded forests and the majestic palace.

The Gajner Palace Hotel regularly conducts jungle safaris into the sanctuary. The hotel has its own exclusive fleet of vehicles and all jungle safaris are accompanied by an extremely knowledgeable guide.

Interesting Facts and Trivia about Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary

It’s a rare wildlife sanctuary as it is located in the heart of the desert area.

Species such as wild fowls, deer, antelopes, nilgais, chinkaras, black bucks, desert foxes and wild boars are some of the common species that can be spotted in the desert forest.

There is a natural lake that acts like an oasis in the centre of that forest. Thus, this is the place that the animals gather to quench their thirst and get relief from the scorching heat of the desert.

Things to Do

Go out on a wildlife safari with your friends and family along with an experience guide.

Gaze at the creatures in the desert land living in their natural habitat.

Click multiple photographs of the desert animals and the beautiful surroundings.

Best Time to Visit

Winters that are between the months of November to March are the best time to visit this place and have an exotic experience. Summers can be extremely hot here and it is not recommended to visit this place during this time.

How to Reach

The Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary is situated at a distance of 32 km from the city. Hire a cab or an auto from any part of the city to reach here. This wildlife sanctuary can also be reached by an adventurous camel ride booked in advance by consulting a travel agency.