The Rajasthan State Archives is a premier institution located in Bikaner, dedicated to the preservation and study of Rajasthan’s rich administrative and historical records. It is one of the most important archives in India, offering a deep insight into the region’s royal, political, and cultural heritage.

Historical Significance:

• The archives house an extensive collection of official records from the princely states of Rajasthan, especially those from the medieval to early modern periods.

• These documents include royal farmans (edicts), administrative reports, treaties, letters, and historical manuscripts in Persian, Arabic, and Rajasthani languages.

• Many records date back to the 16th century and are a valuable resource for researchers and historians.

Collections:

Key types of documents preserved include:

• Farmans – Royal decrees issued by Mughal emperors.

• Manshurs – Appointments and land grants.

• Nishans – Royal orders issued by queens and princesses.

• Vakil Reports – Diplomatic communications.

• Revenue records, court records, and maps.

Museum Gallery:

• A public gallery/museum is part of the archives complex.

• It displays replicas of historical documents, ancient scripts, seals, weapons, and administrative tools.

• Helpful for general visitors to get an overview without needing to access the actual documents.

Visiting Hours:

• Open from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday to Saturday.

• Closed on Sundays and public holidays.

Entry Fee:

• Nominal fee (if any) for museum entry.

• Researchers may need to apply in advance for special access to archival material.

Location:

• Near Junagarh Fort, Bikaner.

• Easily reachable by auto or taxi from any part of the city.

For Researchers:

• Scholars from India and abroad visit for research on Rajasthan’s political, administrative, and social history.

• Permission and ID are required for accessing original documents.

• Facilities like photocopying, translation help, and reading rooms are available.

Best Time to Visit:

• October to March is ideal for travel to Bikaner due to pleasant weather.