Bikaner: 12 Best Places to Visit

Bikaner, a city in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan, India, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, Jaisalmer and Jodhpur, Bikaner is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

History and Architecture

It was founded in 1486 by Rao Bika, a descendant of the Rathore clan. The city is home to some of the most impressive architectural wonders in Rajasthan, including the magnificent Junagarh Fort, which dates back to the 16th century. The fort is a testament to the city’s rich history and features a unique blend of Mughal, Gujarati, and Rajput architectural styles.

Places to visit in Bikaner:

1. Junagarh Fort: A magnificent fort built in the 16th century, featuring a unique blend of Mughal, Gujarati, and Rajput architectural styles.
2. Lalgarh Palace: A stunning palace built in the early 20th century, showcasing a mix of Indian and European architectural styles.
3. Har Mandir: A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its intricate carvings and stunning architecture.
4. Gajner Palace: A majestic palace built on the banks of a lake, offering breathtaking views and a relaxing atmosphere.
5. Bikaner Camel Safari: Explore the Thar Desert on camelback, watching the sunset over the dunes and experiencing the local culture firsthand.
6. National Research Centre on Camel: A unique center dedicated to the conservation and research of camels, offering a fascinating insight into these incredible animals.
7. Karni Mata Temple: A famous temple dedicated to the goddess Karni Mata, known for its intricate carvings and stunning architecture.
8. Bikaner Old City: Explore the narrow streets and bustling markets of the old city, discovering local handicrafts, street food, and more.
9. Ganga Singh Museum: A museum showcasing a vast collection of artifacts, paintings, and sculptures, offering a glimpse into Bikaner’s rich history and culture.
10. Devi Kund: A sacred site featuring a collection of royal cenotaphs, offering a fascinating insight into Bikaner’s royal history.
11. Ratan Bihari Temple: A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, known for its intricate carvings and stunning architecture.
12. Bikaner Fort Museum: A museum located within the Junagarh Fort, showcasing a vast collection of artifacts, paintings, and sculptures.

These are just a few of the many places to visit in Bikaner. The city has a rich history, culture, and natural beauty, offering something for every kind of traveller.

Unique facts about Bikaner:

1. Camel Country: It is known as the “Camel Country” due to its vast camel population and the importance of camels in the city’s culture and economy.
2. Junagarh Fort: The Junagarh Fort in Bikaner is one of the few forts in India that has never been conquered or destroyed.
3. Rat Temple: It is home to the famous Karni Mata Temple, also known as the Rat Temple, where thousands of rats are revered and worshiped.
4. Ancient Trade Route: It was an important stopover on the ancient trade route between India and Central Asia.
5. Unique Architecture: Bikaner’s architecture is a unique blend of Mughal, Gujarati, and Rajput styles, reflecting its strategic location at the crossroads of different cultures.
6. Camel Breeding Centre: It is home to the National Research Centre on Camel, which is the only camel breeding centre in India.
7. Famous Sweets: It is famous for its traditional sweets, including the popular “Bhujia” and “Papad”.
8. Ganga Singh Museum: The Ganga Singh Museum in Bikaner has a vast collection of artifacts, paintings, and sculptures, including a 4th-century AD Buddha statue.
9. Bikaner Old City: The old city of Bikaner is surrounded by a 7-kilometer-long wall, making it one of the largest walled cities in India.
10. Festivals and Fairs: It hosts several unique festivals and fairs, including the Bikaner Camel Festival, the Kolayat Fair, and the Gangaur Festival.

These unique facts showcase Bikaner’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.

Temples and Palaces

It is also home to several beautiful temples and palaces, including the Har Mandir, a stunning temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and the Gajner Palace, a majestic palace built on the banks of a lake.

Camel Safaris

One of the most unique experiences in Bikaner is a camel safari through the Thar Desert. Explore the vast expanse of the desert on camelback, watching the sunset over the dunes and experiencing the local culture firsthand.

Local Cuisine

It is famous for its local cuisine, which includes dishes such as dal baati churma, a traditional Rajasthani meal, and bhujia, a spicy snack made from gram flour.

Shopping

It is a shopper’s paradise, with a range of local handicrafts, including woolen goods, leather products, and intricate jewelry.

Festivals and Events

It hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Camel Festival, which celebrates the city’s iconic camels, and the Kolayat Fair, a colourful festival that takes place in November.

Conclusion

It is a city that has something for everyone – history, culture, natural beauty, and adventure. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure-seeker, It is a must-visit destination in Rajasthan. So come and explore this hidden gem in the Thar Desert!

Read and explore more: Mahendragarh: 15 Best Places to Visit