The Bikaner District Administration and Bikaner Municipal Corporation have also established the Heritage Conservation Cell and the Bikaner District Heritage Committee to restore the historic landmarks of the city. The Heritage Conservation Cell will work towards identifying and documenting Bikaner’s hidden treasures-from its majestic havelis and temples to its vibrant crafts and traditions. Through public awareness campaigns, restoration projects, and partnerships with experts and stakeholders, the Cell will weave heritage preservation into the fabric of everyday life. Whether it’s promoting sustainable tourism or integrating traditional architecture with modern urban planning, the Cell will balance the need for development with the responsibility of preserving Bikaner’s timeless charm.
According to Mayank Manish, Commissioner, Municipal Corporation, Bikaner, “The goal of the Bikaner Heritage Cell is to raise awareness and promote the conservation and restoration of heritage buildings and sites in Bikaner. It has been established to preserve the cultural, historical, and architectural heritage, which is embodied in its historic buildings and sites.”
Emphasizing the collective responsibility of the community in safeguarding Bikaner’s legacy, Bikaner’s District Collector Namrata Vrishni said, “The District Heritage Committee will not only oversee heritage-related matters but also engage relevant stakeholders to protect Bikaner’s rich cultural legacy. It is essential for local residents and Haveli owners to collaborate with local authorities to preserve the city’s heritage and traditions.”
Bikaner is the city of a thousand havelis. These grand havelis, once filled with the bustle of wealthy merchant families, now stand as remnants of Bikaner’s opulent past. The walled city’s architecture and urban design offer both practical solutions to the harsh desert climate and a celebration of traditional craftsmanship. From intricately carved stone jharokhas (balconies) to perforated jaalis and ornate chajjas (overhangs), every corner tells a story.
Unfortunately, over the years, many of the merchants relocated, leaving their ancestral homes under the care of custodians. Some havelis have been divided among multiple owners, while others face neglect and deterioration. Modern construction has begun to replace the historic landscape, eroding the city’s architectural beauty. Poor maintenance, inadequate waste management, and climate challenges further threaten these masterpieces. Without immediate conservation efforts, Bikaner risks losing its precious heritage.
Lokayan, a non-profit organization, has been dedicated to preserving Bikaner’s havelis for the past 20 years. The NGO’s secretary Gopal Singh, who is a cultural and heritage activist, leads efforts to restore and protect Bikaner’s intricately carved havelis, along with other cultural initiatives.
As per Gopal Singh, “Bikaner, known as the city of a thousand havelis, has unfortunately lost over 200 significant buildings in recent decades. This is a sad reality for a city that holds such a rich cultural identity. It is time to take action, and we need an organization like the Heritage Cell to help us protect and preserve our heritage.”
It is worth noting that in the last 15 years, many Havelis have been demolished but a few Haveli owners have also restored their old Havelis. Raju Mohta restored his 200-years-old haveli located at Mohta Chowk, which is in the heart of the city. Sharad Lakhotia, who lives in Kolkata but owns a 100-year-old Haveli in Bikaner, recently restored his Haveli along with old artefacts and photographs. Kothari Haveli, Rampuria Haveli, Sonawat Haveli and Sampat Agarwal Haveli have also been restored recently. The newly launched Bikaner Heritage Walk will include a visit to some of these restored havelis.
Bikaner Heritage Walk is more than an exploration of the city’s physical landmarks; it is a celebration of its soul. The walk will commence from Bikaji ki Tekri and delve into the vibrant heart of the city, with the participants meandering through the narrow streets of the Purana Shahar. Walkers will explore the bustling bazaars of the old city, beginning with Chudi Bazaar (Bangles Market). From aromatic spices to intricate textiles, these markets offer a sensory feast that is integral to the Bikaner experience. The walk will then lead deeper into the bylanes, offering glimpses of Bikaner’s culinary heritage at Bada Bazaar and Sabzi Bazaar. The art of Juti or Mojari making will draw participants further into the city’s rich traditions.
The journey will continue to Marunayak Chowk, where the participants will get an insight into Bikaner’s textile artistry in the form of block printing and screen printing, both preserved through generations. The walk will conclude with a journey through Hanuman Ji Ka Mandir and Asaniyon Ka Chowk, leading to the iconic Rampuria Haveli—a magnificent symbol of Bikaner’s opulent past that is believed to have been built during the 14th–15th century.
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