About Bikaner
Bikaner’s charm lies in its contrasts—royal grandeur blends rustic simplicity, and spiritual reverence combines with everyday desert life. Whether you're admiring the intricate stonework of Junagarh Fort or sampling spicy street snacks in the market, Bikaner offers a journey into Rajasthan’s regal soul.
Wander through Junagarh Fort’s ornate corridors, and you will hear centuries of craftsmanship whisper from every carved wall. Step into bustling markets filled with spicy snacks, embroidered mojris, and the unmistakable aroma of desert spices. Bikaner’s spirit is both majestic and grounded—welcoming travellers into a world where history, hospitality, and heritage coexist.
Though less commercial than Jaipur or Udaipur, Bikaner rewards those who seek depth over dazzle. Its festivals, temples, and camel culture offer a rich array of experiences. Whether you're sipping chai in a quiet courtyard or watching artisans at work, Bikaner leaves you with more than memories—it leaves you with a sense of belonging.
Top Tourist Places to Visit in Bikaner
Junagarh Fort:
Junagarh Fort stands as a testament to Bikaner’s royal legacy—an architectural marvel that has never been conquered in battle. Built in 1589 by Raja Rai Singh, a general in the Mughal army, the fort reflects a fusion of Rajput strength and Mughal elegance. Unlike many hilltop forts in Rajasthan, Junagarh rises from the desert floor, surrounded by tough stone walls and a deep channel. Inside the complex, there are a series of palaces, courtyards, balconies, and temples—each adorned with intricate carvings, mirror work, and frescoes. You shouldn’t miss the highlights - the Anup Mahal with its gold leaf ceilings, the Phool Mahal’s floral motifs, and the museum that houses royal costumes, weaponry, and manuscripts.
- Famous For: Rajput architecture, ornate palaces, historical artifacts, royal chambers.
- Best Time: October – March.
- Entry Fee: Rs 50- Rs 300
Karni Mata Temple:
Located about 30 km from Bikaner, this temple is famous for its sacred rats, which are believed to be reincarnated devotees. The temple’s architecture is equally captivating, with its intricately carved marble façade, silver doors, and ornate sanctum. Visitors often walk barefoot through the temple grounds, sharing space with the rats in a gesture of reverence and humility.
- Famous For: Sacred rats, spiritual folklore, marble carvings
- Best Time: Year-round
- Entry Fee: Free
National Research Centre on Camel:
Just a short drive from Bikaner, this research centre offers a rare glimpse into the world of camels—animals deeply woven into Rajasthan’s desert life. Established to study and support camel breeding, the centre showcases various camel breeds, their role in desert ecosystems, and the science behind their care. Visitors can walk through informative displays, observe feeding and grooming routines, and learn how camels contribute to local livelihoods. One of the highlights is tasting camel milk products, including a surprisingly smooth camel milk ice cream. The experience is both educational and culturally rich, making it an important stop for curious travellers.
- Famous For: Camel conservation, desert ecology, camel milk ice cream
- Best Time: October – March
- Entry Fee: Rs 30 – Rs 100
Rampuria Havelis:
located in the heart of Bikaner’s old city, the Rampuria Havelis are a stunning row of 19th-century mansions built by the wealthy Rampuria merchant family. Made from deep red sandstone, these havelis are known for their richly carved facades, arched windows, and delicate jharokhas that reflect a blend of Rajput and colonial design inspirations. Each haveli tells a story—of opulence, craftsmanship, and the city’s mercantile past. The exteriors are adorned with floral motifs, latticework balconies, and intricate stone detailing, while the interiors (though mostly private) hint at the grandeur of a bygone era. Walking through this narrow lane would make you feel like stepping into a living museum, where every corner offers a frame-worthy view.
- Famous For: Ornate sandstone facades, merchant heritage, heritage photography
- Best Time: September – March.
- Entry Fee: Free
Lalgarh Palace & Museum:
Built in the early 20th century by Maharaja Ganga Singh, Lalgarh Palace is a grand red sandstone estate that beautifully blends Rajput, Mughal, and European architectural styles. Designed with wide verandas, delicate latticework, and expansive gardens, the palace reflects both royal elegance and colonial influence. Part of the palace has now serves as a heritage hotel, another section houses the Shri Sadul Museum, which offers a glimpse into Bikaner’s royal lineage through photographs, personal belongings, and historical memorabilia.
- Famous For: Fusion architecture, royal museum exhibits.
- Best Time: October – March.
- Entry Fee: Rs 50 – Rs 200 (depending on museum access)
Devi Kund Sagar:
Just a short drive from Bikaner’s city center, Devi Kund Sagar offers a quiet, reflective escape into the region’s royal past. This peaceful site is the cremation ground of the Bikaner royal family, where beautifully crafted cenotaphs—known as chhatris—stand in memory of kings, queens, and noble ancestors. Each cenotaph tells its own story through delicate carvings, graceful domes, and inscriptions that mark the passage of time. The marble and sandstone structures, set against the open desert sky, create a tranquil atmosphere that feels timeless. It’s not a crowded tourist spot, but that’s part of its charm—ideal for heritage photography, quiet walks, or simply soaking in the history. If you’re drawn to places that speak softly but deeply, Devi Kund is worth the detour.
- Famous For: Royal memorials, marble and sandstone cenotaphs, peaceful ambiance
- Best Time: October – March.
- Entry Fee: Rs 20 – Rs 50 (may vary)
These top places in Bikaner will give you a deeper insight of city’s rich history, desert life, and local traditions. You may choose to walk through the grand halls of Junagarh Fort, admiring the old Rampuria Havelis, or enjoying the peaceful atmosphere at Devi Kund, every spot has something special to offer.
Top Things to Do in Bikaner
Bikaner offers a rich mix of experiences for history lovers, culture seekers, and curious travellers. Here are the must-do activities and Bikaner Travel Tips to enhance your holiday:
Join the Camel Festival
Experience: If you’re in Bikaner during the Camel Festival, you’re in for a treat. Watch decorated camels parade through the desert, enjoy folk music and dance performances, and browse stalls selling local crafts and snacks. It’s a lively celebration of desert life and tradition.
Famous For: Camel parades, folk culture, desert festivities
Best Time: January
Cost: Free
Go on a Heritage Photography Walk
Experience: Explore Bikaner’s old city with a local guide who knows the best angles and stories. From the carved facades of Rampuria Havelis to quiet temple courtyards, this walk is perfect for photographers, storytellers, and anyone who loves discovering hidden corners.
Famous For: Visual storytelling, photography, offbeat exploration
Best Time: October – March.
Cost: Rs 1500 – Rs 2500
Join a Rajasthani Cooking Class
Experience: For travellers who love food and culture, a cooking class in Bikaner offers a delicious way to connect with local life. Hosted in traditional homes or boutique stays, these sessions guide you through the preparation of classic dishes like ker sangri, gatte ki sabzi, bajra roti, and churma. You’ll learn how spices are blended, how ingredients are sourced, and how desert communities have shaped their cuisine around what grows in arid soil.
Famous For: Culinary learning, cultural experience, home-style hospitality
Best Time: October – March.
Cost: Rs 1500 – Rs 2500
Shop like a Local at Kote Gate Bazaar
Experience: Stroll through the bustling markets filled with embroidered mojris, block-printed fabrics, and local snacks like bhujia and rasgullas. Bargaining is part of the fun, and the lively atmosphere gives you a taste of everyday Bikaner. Even if you’re not in for shopping, the market is a joy to explore. Watch artisans at work, sample street snacks, and take in the architectural charm of old storefronts and temple facades tucked between stalls.
Famous For: Cultural immersion, everyday local life
Best Time: October – March.
Cost: Free
These thoughtfully picked experiences make Bikaner tours and packages unique, where history, craftsmanship, and desert traditions come alive. From exploring grand forts and intricately carved temples to witnessing traditional artisans at work and experiencing the quiet rhythm of desert life, every moment in Bikaner reveals a unique facet of this timeless land.
Best Time To Visit Bikaner
Peak Season (October – March): This is the most popular time to visit Bikaner. The weather is cool and pleasant—perfect for exploring Junagarh Fort, walking through Rampuria Havelis, attending morning rituals at local temples, and enjoying outdoor events like the Camel Festival. It’s also ideal for market visits and heritage walks.
Summer Season (April – May): As summer sets in, temperatures rise sharply, especially in the afternoons. Sightseeing can become uncomfortable, and outdoor activities are best avoided during peak heat hours. If you do visit during this time, plan early morning outings and stay hydrated.
Off-Season (June – September): Monsoon brings occasional showers and a softer look to the desert landscape. While some outdoor plans may be affected, it’s a peaceful time to enjoy indoor experiences like cooking classes, artisan workshops, and quiet temple visits. Hotel rates are generally more budget-friendly during this season.
Festival Calendar:
- Camel Festival (January): A lively celebration featuring decorated camels, folk performances, and desert-themed competitions. It’s Bikaner’s most iconic event.
- Karni Mata Fair (March & September): Held in Deshnok, this spiritual fair draws pilgrims to the Karni Mata Temple, known for its sacred rats and devotional atmosphere.
Dress code: Choose breathable cotton clothes for summer, an umbrella or raincoat during the monsoon, and light woollens for cool winter evenings.
How To Reach Bikaner?
- By Air: Nal Airport is the nearest but since flights are limited, travellers often fly into major airports like Jodhpur or Jaipur and continue to Bikaner by road. From Jodhpur, the drive takes around 4.5 to 5 hours by car.
- By Train: Bikaner Junction is a key railway station with regular trains from Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Ahmedabad, and other major cities. The station is centrally located and offers easy access to auto-rickshaws and taxis for local travel.
- By Road: Bikaner is well-connected by road to cities like Jodhpur, Jaipur, and Delhi. State-run buses, private coaches, and taxis are available. The drive from Jaipur takes about 6–7 hours, while Jodhpur is roughly 250 km away so it’s best to opt for private transport provider for comfortable travel.
Things To Know Before Visiting Bikaner
- If you're visiting between November and February. This is peak season in Bikaner, especially during the Camel Festival, and popular hotels tend to book out quickly. So book your stay ahead of time.
- Start your day early to enjoy cooler weather and fewer crowds—perfect for temple visits, market strolls, and exploring heritage forts like Junagarh Fort and Rampuria Havelis before the day warms up.
- Dress for comfort and climate—light cotton clothing and sturdy walking shoes are best for navigating narrow lanes, temple steps, and artisan workshops.
- Keep small cash handy for tuk-tuks, street food, and local purchases. While many places accept digital payments and cards, smaller vendors may prefer cash.
- Don’t forget your travel essentials—sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, sunglasses, and a light scarf or hat will help you stay cool and protected while exploring Bikaner’s outdoor sites.
- Be mindful of local traditions, wear modest clothing, and always check before taking photos, especially in sacred or private spaces.
