Rajasthan is home to the historically significant city of Bikaner. It is renowned for its delectable cuisine, architectural landmarks, and rich cultural legacy. Rao Bika built the city in the fifteenth century, and kings have long ruled it. A fortified wall that once protected the old city of Bikaner still surrounds it today, bearing witness to the city's lengthy history. The Junagarh Fort, Laxmi Niwas Palace, and Karni Mata temple are a few places to visit in Bikaner. And, there’s more.
The Junagarh Fort is a striking building that displays the splendour and wealth of the Rajputs, who for centuries dominated Bikaner. A stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, the Laxmi Niwas Palace is now a heritage hotel. Hindu worshippers frequently travel to the Karni Mata temple, also called the Rat Temple. The Bikaneri bhujia, a sort of spicy snack made from gram flour, is one of the sweet and savoury foods that make Bikaner famous. For those who are interested in India's rich cultural heritage and history, Bikaner is worth visiting.
The Bikaner Camel Festival and other festivals and cultural activities take place during the winter, making it a great time for travellers to experience the native way of life. However, at the busiest time of year for tourists, the city can become quite busy. Bikaner is a city with a rich cultural heritage and a must-see for everyone hoping to discover the real spirit of Rajasthan.
Places to visit in Bikaner
1. The Junagarh Fort
The Junagarh Fort is a wonderful example of Rajasthani architecture and history, dating back to the 16th century. It is an invincible castle since it is situated in the centre of the city and is encircled by thick walls. The fort is one of the many places to visit in Bikaner as it’s the pride of the city and shows the grandeur of a bygone era.
Timings: 8:30am to 5pm
Entry fee: Rs 50 each
2. Laxmi Nivas Palace
Laxmi Niwas Palace is a remarkable example of Indo-Saracenic architecture and was once the Maharaja of Bikaner's home before being turned into a hotel. That’s why this is one the places you must visit in Bikaner. The palace is a must-see for anybody interested in history and architecture because of its elaborate carvings, spacious rooms, and opulent furnishings.
Timings: 8:30am to 5pm
Entry fee: Rs 100 each
3. National Research Centre on Camel
One of the most significant animals in Bikaner, as well as Rajasthan, camels are bred and preserved on this one-of-a-kind farm. As Asia’s biggest camel farm, it’s a place to visit in Bikaner to know more about the desert animal. At this farm, you may see a lot of camels, including babies, and learn about the different breeds and their uses. If you’re fascinated by camels, you will definitely not want to miss doing this in Bikaner.
Address: National Highway 11, Jodhpur Road, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001, India
Timings: 8:30am to 5pm
Entry fee: Rs 50 each
4. Deshnok Temple
Karni Mata, a Hindu goddess, is honoured at the Deshnok Temple (also known as the ‘Karni Mata Temple’ or ‘The Rat Temple’), which is renowned for its vast population of free-roaming rats. These rats are revered as being lucky charms for those who visit the shrine, according to legend. This is definitely a place to visit in Bikaner if you’re looking for an experience you will never forget.
Timings: 4am to 11pm
5. Prachina Museum
Interested in the history and culture of the city? The Prachina Musuem is a place you must-visit in Bikaner. This museum highlights the cultural heritage of Bikaner and offers tourists a look into the past by displaying a variety of objects, such as textiles, paintings, and pictures.
Timings: 8:30am to 5pm
Entry fee: Rs 50 each
6. Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary
The blackbuck is one of the many animals and birds that call the Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary home, which is situated on the shores of Gajner lake. To view the fauna and take in the natural beauty of the area, visitors can take a boat trip on the lake. It’s a place to visit in Bikaner for wildlife and photography enthusiasts alike.
Timings: 6am to 6pm
Entry fee: Rs 150
7. Bikaner Havelis
The elaborate carvings, expansive courtyards, and stunning architecture of Bikaner havelis, the affluent merchants' old homes, are well-known features. Anyone interested in the history and customs of Bikaner must pay a visit to these havelis. Most havelis have now been converted into some of the best palace hotels in Rajasthan.
Some of the havelis you must visit in Bikaner include the Rampuria group of havelis on Rampuria street. They are some of the most opulent havelis you’ll ever witness among other places to visit in Bikaner.
Timings: 10am to 5pm
Entry fee: Rs 50 each
8. Thar Desert
Bikaner is surrounded by the Thar desert, thus anyone visiting the city must see it. You can watch a sunset, ride a camel and go up and down the sand dunes, and take in the special beauty of the desert. There are ample desert tours that can book through your hotel’s desk.
Timings: 6am to 6pm
Entry fee: Rs 500
While you’re in Bikaner, also take some time out to explore the food in Bikaner. Apart from great namkeen, you can sample delicious food in Bikaner at some of the best restaurants in Rajasthan. Maybe, you might also learn a Rajasthani recipe to cook at home when you want to reminisce your trip.
Best time to visit Bikaner
As it’s a desert region, the best time to visit Bikaner is between October to March. The temperature does dip down to 4 degrees Celsius between December to February.