Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary is located at a distance of about 32.0 km (19.9 mi) from Bikaner. In former times, it was a hunting ground for the Maharajah of Bikaner. There is a lake in this sanctuary and a variety of animals come here to quench their thirst in summer. This is one of the proposed forests for the reintroduction of cheetahs 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.
