🌵 Overview
Welcome to Bikaner, the royal desert city of Rajasthan, famous for its magnificent forts, ancient temples, golden sands, and camel safaris. Founded in 1488 by Rao Bika, this vibrant city is a blend of heritage, art, and tradition. From the grand Junagarh Fort to the mystical Karni Mata Temple, Bikaner offers a glimpse into Rajasthan’s regal past and colorful culture.
Whether you are a history lover, architecture admirer, or food enthusiast, Bikaner is full of surprises waiting to be explored.
🏰 1. Junagarh Fort – The Jewel of Bikaner
Built in 1594 by Raja Rai Singh, Junagarh Fort stands tall as a symbol of Bikaner’s might and elegance.
Unlike most forts in Rajasthan, Junagarh was not built on a hill, yet it remained unconquered.
✨ Highlights:
- Exquisite red sandstone and marble architecture
- Beautiful palaces: Anup Mahal, Chandra Mahal, and Phool Mahal
- Rich collection of royal costumes, weapons, and artifacts
🕓 Timings: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
💸 Entry Fee: ₹50 (Indian) | ₹300 (Foreigners)
📍 Location: Fort Road, Bikaner
🐀 2. Karni Mata Temple (Deshnok) – The Rat Temple
Located 30 km from Bikaner, the Karni Mata Temple is one of India’s most unusual temples.
Dedicated to Goddess Karni Mata, the temple is home to over 25,000 sacred rats, known locally as Kabbas. These rats are believed to be reincarnations of Goddess Karni Mata’s devotees.
✨ Highlights:
- Marble façade with intricate silver doors
- Devotees consider spotting a white rat as highly auspicious
- Major pilgrimage site during Navratri
🕓 Timings: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
💸 Entry: Free
📍 Location: Deshnok Village, 30 km from Bikaner
🏯 3. Lalgarh Palace – The Red Sandstone Marvel
Built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in the early 20th century, Lalgarh Palace is a splendid mix of Rajput, Mughal, and European styles.
Now partially converted into a heritage hotel, this palace offers an authentic royal experience.
✨ Highlights:
- Grand corridors, latticework, and carved stone walls
- Museum showcasing royal photographs and hunting trophies
- Beautiful rose gardens and peacock-filled lawns
🕓 Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
💸 Entry Fee: ₹50 – ₹100
📍 Location: Ganganagar Road, Bikaner
🌊 4. Gajner Palace & Lake – The Desert Oasis
Once a hunting lodge of the Bikaner royals, Gajner Palace is located on the banks of a serene lake, about 35 km from the city.
Now converted into a luxury heritage hotel, it’s one of the most romantic destinations in Rajasthan.
✨ Highlights:
- Stunning lakeside architecture
- Birdwatching (home to migratory birds like pelicans and sand grouse)
- Ideal for photography and sunset views
🕓 Visiting Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Gajner, 35 km from Bikaner
🐫 5. National Research Centre on Camel – The Camel Farm
Known as the Camel Breeding Farm, this is a unique attraction showcasing Rajasthan’s iconic “Ship of the Desert.”
✨ Highlights:
- Learn about different camel breeds
- Try camel milk ice cream and camel ride experiences
- Small museum explaining the importance of camels in desert life
🕓 Timings: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM (open daily)
💸 Entry Fee: ₹30 (Indian) | ₹100 (Foreigners)
📍 Location: 8 km from Bikaner city
🕌 6. Bhandasar Jain Temple – The Marble Wonder
A 15th-century temple dedicated to Sumatinath, the 5th Tirthankara of Jainism.
This temple is known for its intricate mirror work, frescoes, and gold leaf paintings.
✨ Fun Fact:
It’s believed that ghee (clarified butter) was mixed instead of water in the mortar during construction!
🕓 Timings: 5:00 AM – 1:00 PM & 5:30 PM – 11:30 PM
📍 Location: Old Bikaner City
🏠 7. Rampuria Havelis – The Pride of Bikaner
Often called the “Mansions of Bikaner,” these havelis were built by wealthy merchants in the 15th century using red sandstone.
✨ Highlights:
- Ornate windows, balconies, and carvings
- Blend of Mughal and Victorian architecture
- Perfect spot for heritage photography
📍 Location: Rampuria Street, Near Kote Gate
🛕 8. Shiv Bari Temple – The Peaceful Sanctuary
Constructed by Maharaja Doongar Singh in the 19th century, Shiv Bari Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
✨ Highlights:
- Surrounded by high sandstone walls
- Houses a beautiful black marble Shiva Linga
- Ideal for spiritual seekers
🕓 Timings: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
📍 Location: 6 km from Bikaner
🎭 9. Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum – The Treasure House of History
This is one of the largest museums in Rajasthan, featuring rare collections of paintings, coins, manuscripts, and terracotta artifacts.
✨ Highlights:
- Archaeological exhibits from Harappan to Rajput eras
- Miniature paintings and royal weaponry
🕓 Timings: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
💸 Entry Fee: ₹10 (Indian) | ₹50 (Foreigners)
📍 Location: Near Civil Lines, Bikaner
🌅 10. Devi Kund Sagar – The Royal Cenotaphs
Located 8 km from Bikaner, this is the cremation ground of the Bikaner royal family.
The site is famous for its cenotaphs (chhatris) made of white marble, decorated with exquisite carvings and inscriptions.
🕓 Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
📍 Location: Devi Kund, Bikaner
🧭 Travel Guide to Bikaner
🚉 How to Reach
- By Air: Nearest airport – Nal Airport (17 km) or Jodhpur Airport (250 km)
- By Train: Bikaner Junction is well-connected to Delhi, Jaipur, and Jodhpur
- By Road: Excellent road connectivity via NH 11 and NH 15
🌤️ Best Time to Visit
- October to March – Pleasant weather
- Don’t miss the Bikaner Camel Festival (January) for a cultural extravaganza.
⏰ Ideal Duration: 2–3 Days
💡 Travel Tips
✅ Book hotels near Junagarh Fort or Station Road for convenience.
✅ Try local Bikaneri Bhujia and Rasgulla — both are world famous!
✅ Hire a local guide for heritage walks in the old city.
✅ Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and water bottles — desert heat can be intense.
🧳 Why Visit Bikaner?
Because Bikaner offers the perfect blend of history, architecture, and desert adventure.
From royal palaces to spiritual temples and golden dunes, every corner tells a story of valor and grace.
👉 If you wish to experience authentic Rajasthan, Bikaner is where you’ll find its true essence. 🌸
