Bikaner

Bikaner Tour

 Bikaner, located in the northwestern part of Rajasthan, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. Here's a guide to help you plan your Bikaner tour:

Key Attractions

1. Junagarh Fort

   • Overview: Unlike many other forts in Rajasthan, Junagarh Fort is not built on a hilltop. This massive fort is surrounded by a moat and is known for its beautiful palaces, courtyards, and museums.
   • Highlights: Karan Mahal, Phool Mahal, Anup Mahal, and the Fort Museum.

2. Karni Mata Temple (Rat Temple)

   • Overview: Located in Deshnoke, around 30 km from Bikaner, this temple is famous for its rat population, considered sacred. Visitors often come to seek blessings from Karni Mata.
   • Unique Aspect: The temple houses thousands of rats that freely roam the premises.

3. Lalgarh Palace

   • Overview: Built by Maharaja Ganga Singh, this palace is a splendid example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. Part of the palace has been converted into a heritage hotel, while another part serves as a museum.
   • Highlights: The museum showcases royal artifacts, paintings, and hunting trophies.

4. National Research Centre on Camel

   • Overview: A unique institution dedicated to research on camels, this center offers insight into the different breeds of camels and their importance in the region.
   • Activities: Camel rides, tasting camel milk products, and learning about camel breeding.

5. Gajner Palace and Wildlife Sanctuary

   • Overview: Situated on the banks of a lake, Gajner Palace is a beautiful red sandstone structure. The adjacent wildlife sanctuary is home to various species of birds and animals.
   • Activities: Boating, nature walks, and bird watching.

6. Bhandasar Jain Temple

   • Overview: Known for its intricate carvings and vibrant paintings, this 15th-century temple is dedicated to the 5th Tirthankara, Sumatinath. The temple is famous for being constructed using 40,000 kg of ghee instead of water in its mortar mix.
   • Highlights: The stunning frescoes and detailed murals.

Cultural Experiences

1. Camel Safari

   • Overview: Bikaner is known for its camel safaris, which take you through the golden sands of the Thar Desert. These safaris offer a chance to experience the traditional Rajasthani lifestyle.
   • Popular Routes: Safaris typically start from Bikaner and go into the desert, often including visits to nearby villages.

2. Bikaner Camel Festival

   • Overview: Held annually in January, this festival is dedicated to camels and showcases Rajasthani culture through folk music, dances, and camel races.
   • Highlights: Camel beauty contests, tug-of-war, and the lively atmosphere.

Local Cuisine

• Must-Try Dishes: Bikaneri Bhujia, Ghevar, Rasgulla, Rajasthani Thali, and various types of Kachoris.
• Popular Restaurants: Chhotu Motu Joshi, Gallops Restaurant and Coffee House, and The Garden Café & Restaurant.

Shopping in Bikaner

• What to Buy: Bikaneri Bhujia, camel leather products, Rajasthani handicrafts, and traditional textiles.
• Where to Shop: Kote Gate, Station Road Market, and Lallgarh Palace Road.

Best Time to Visit

• Ideal Months: October to March, when the weather is cooler and more pleasant.

How to Reach

• By Air: The nearest airport is Jodhpur Airport, around 250 km from Bikaner.
• By Train: Bikaner Junction is well-connected by trains to major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Jodhpur.
• By Road: Bikaner is connected by well-maintained roads to other major cities in Rajasthan.

Would you like to know more about accommodation options or need assistance with any specific plans for your Bikaner trip?