tourist destinations near bikaner

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Places to Visit in Bikaner

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Bikaner Tourist Places

Junagarh Fort, Bhandasar Jain Temple, Rampuria Haveli, Prachina Museum, Laxmi Niwas Palace, Shri Laxminath Temple, Lallgarh Palace, National Research Centre on Camel, Shiv Bari Temple, and many more. There are many places to Visit in Bikaner that display the rich culture and vibrant heritage of this treasure trove. Known as a traveller’s paradise, Bikaner boasts of stunning architecture, art and a splendid heritage, all beautifully interwoven with colour and vibrancy One of the first ancient structures that you can see here is the Kote Gate, serving as the entrance to the city of Bikaner. Or you can go to Station Road, and shop to your heart’s delight at this colourful market. When visiting the Bikaner tourist places, there will be something for everybody. From the magnificent Junagarh Fort, which was constructed by one of Akbar’s trusted generals, to the man-made Sursagar Lake, which sits beautifully in front of the fort, there is a lot you can see in Bikaner. There are also many places to visit near Bikaner, such as Khimsar, which is located at the edge of the Thar Desert and surrounded by golden sand dunes. You can also visit Phalodi, which is the “Salt City” of Rajasthan. Deshnoke, located a few kilometres near Bikaner, is also a great place to visit during your holiday here. Bikaner is a place that will surprise you at every turn, so a holiday here is guaranteed to be memorable for you and your near and dear ones.

Here are some of the best places to visit in Bikaner:

Junagarh Fort

Junagarh Fort, located in Bikaner, India, is a magnificent architectural marvel steeped in history. Built in the 16th century, it showcases a blend of Rajput and Mughal styles. The fort's intricate carvings, ornate interiors, and impressive courtyards make it a must-visit destination for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Top Experiences To Do in Junagarh Fort

Bhandasar Jain Temple

Bhandasar Jain Temple, located in Bikaner, Rajasthan, is a marvel of intricate craftsmanship and religious significance. Constructed in the 15th century by Bhandasa Oswal, a wealthy Jain merchant, this temple is dedicated to the fifth Tirthankara, Sumatinath. The temple's ornate architecture, adorned with delicately carved sandstone and vibrant frescoes, reflects the artistic prowess of the region. Bhandasar Jain Temple stands as a testament to Jain cultural heritage and attracts visitors with its spiritual ambiance and architectural beauty.

Rampuria Haveli

Rampuria Haveli, nestled in the heart of Bikaner, Rajasthan, is a splendid architectural marvel reflecting the grandeur of a bygone era. Built by the wealthy Rampuria family in the 15th century, the haveli showcases exquisite Rajasthani craftsmanship with intricate carvings, ornate balconies, and vibrant frescoes. A walk through its historic corridors offers a captivating glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the merchants who once resided in this resplendent mansion.

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Prachina Museum

Prachina Museum in Bikaner, Rajasthan, is a cultural treasure trove showcasing the traditional art, textiles, and artifacts of the region. Housed in the Junagarh Fort, the museum offers a captivating journey through Rajasthan's rich heritage. Its curated exhibits feature royal costumes, accessories, and artifacts, providing a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Bikaner royalty and the artistic finesse of the bygone era.

Laxmi Niwas Palace

Laxmi Niwas Palace in Bikaner, Rajasthan, is an architectural masterpiece that reflects the grandeur of the past. Built in the Indo-Saracenic style during the early 20th century, it was commissioned by Maharaja Ganga Singh. This opulent palace, now a heritage hotel, boasts intricate carvings, majestic courtyards, and a regal ambiance, providing guests with a glimpse into the royal lifestyle of Bikaner.

Shri Laxminath Temple

Shri Laxminath Temple, located in the heart of Bikaner, Rajasthan, is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Laxminath, a form of Lord Vishnu. The temple's architecture, characterized by intricate carvings and vibrant frescoes, reflects the region's artistic heritage. Devotees and visitors are drawn to the spiritual ambiance and the temple's cultural significance, making it a cherished site in Bikaner's religious landscape.

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Lallgarh Palace

Lallgarh Palace, a magnificent architectural marvel in Bikaner, Rajasthan, embodies the grandeur of Rajputana heritage. Built in the early 20th century, this red sandstone palace showcases a splendid blend of Mughal, Rajput, and European styles. Adorned with intricate carvings and ornate balconies, the palace is now a heritage hotel, offering a regal retreat with luxurious accommodations, regal ambiance, and a glimpse into Rajasthan's royal history.

National Research Centre on Camel

The National Research Centre on Camel, located in Bikaner, Rajasthan, is a pioneering institution dedicated to the research and development of camel husbandry. Established to enhance the welfare of these resilient animals, the center focuses on breeding, nutrition, and health management. Through its innovative initiatives, it contributes significantly to sustaining camel populations and promoting the economic well-being of communities dependent on these extraordinary creatures in arid regions.

Top Experiences To Do in National Research Centre on Camel

Shiv Bari Temple

Shiv Bari Temple in Bikaner, Rajasthan, is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Constructed in the 19th century by Maharaja Doongar Singhji, the temple features impressive Rajput architecture with finely sculpted stone carvings. The sanctum houses a black marble lingam, and the temple's tranquil surroundings make it a serene place for spiritual contemplation and cultural exploration in the heart of Bikaner.

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Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary

Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary, adjacent to Gajner Palace in Bikaner, Rajasthan, is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Spread over 6000 acres, the sanctuary encompasses pristine lakes and dense woods, providing a sanctuary for diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can spot migratory birds, Nilgai, chinkara, and more. The tranquil surroundings offer a peaceful retreat, inviting wildlife lovers to explore the beauty of Rajasthan's natural landscapes.

Gajner Palace

Gajner Palace in Bikaner, Rajasthan, is a magnificent architectural marvel that echoes the opulence of a bygone era. Nestled beside the scenic Gajner Lake, the palace, built in the 18th century, seamlessly blends Mughal and Rajputana styles. Surrounded by lush greenery, it offers a tranquil retreat. The palace, now a heritage hotel, preserves regal charm with its intricate carvings, ornate balconies, and sprawling courtyards.

Kodamdeshwar Temple

Kodamdeshwar Temple, located in Bikaner, Rajasthan, is a sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Constructed with intricate architectural details, the temple showcases traditional Rajasthani craftsmanship. Pilgrims and tourists are drawn to its spiritual ambiance, adorned with ornate carvings and religious motifs. The temple stands as a testament to the religious and cultural heritage of Bikaner, offering a serene space for prayer and reflection.

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Sri Sadul Museum

Sri Sadul Museum in Bikaner, Rajasthan, is a captivating repository of the city's royal legacy. Housed in the Lalgarh Palace, the museum showcases a remarkable collection of artifacts, including vintage cars, weaponry, and exquisite artwork. Named after Maharaja Sadul Singh, the museum provides a glimpse into Bikaner's aristocratic past, offering visitors a cultural journey through the opulence and heritage of the region.

Ganga Singh Museum

The Ganga Singh Museum in Bikaner, Rajasthan, is a cultural haven preserving the history of the region. Named after Maharaja Ganga Singh, the museum showcases an impressive array of artifacts, manuscripts, and archaeological finds. Established in the early 20th century, it offers visitors a captivating journey through Bikaner's heritage, highlighting the artistic, historical, and cultural facets of this vibrant city in the heart of the Thar Desert.

Sursagar Lake

Sursagar Lake, located in Vadodara, Gujarat, is a serene artificial lake that adds a tranquil touch to the cityscape. Encircled by lush greenery, the lake provides a peaceful escape for locals and tourists. Boating facilities and the surrounding gardens enhance the charm of Sursagar Lake, making it a popular recreational spot in Vadodara.

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Royal Cenotaphs Devikund Sagar

The Royal Cenotaphs at Devikund Sagar, located near Bikaner, Rajasthan, are a captivating testament to the region's royal legacy. These elegant marble structures, surrounded by tranquil waters, honor the departed rulers of Bikaner. The intricate carvings and architectural finesse of the cenotaphs showcase a harmonious blend of Rajput and Mughal styles, offering visitors a serene and culturally rich experience in the heart of the Thar Desert.

Bikaner Camel Festival

The Bikaner Camel Festival is a vibrant celebration held annually in Bikaner, Rajasthan, showcasing the cultural and historical significance of camels in the region. This lively event features camel parades, traditional folk dances, and competitions like camel races and beauty pageants. Tourists and locals alike revel in the festivities, enjoying the unique spectacle of decorated camels, folk performances, and the lively atmosphere that captures the essence of Rajasthan's desert traditions.

Deshnoke Bikaner

Deshnoke, a quaint town in Rajasthan, India, is renowned for the Karni Mata Temple. This sacred site is dedicated to the venerated deity Karni Mata, where thousands of rats, considered holy, freely roam the temple premises. The town's unique religious and cultural significance makes it a distinctive destination, attracting curious travelers.

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Skybird Water Park

Skybird Water Park in Bikaner is a refreshing escape, offering exhilarating water attractions for locals and tourists alike. With thrilling slides, wave pools, and family-friendly zones, the park provides a perfect respite from the desert heat. Its vibrant ambiance and water-based adventures make Skybird Water Park a popular destination for fun and relaxation in the heart of Bikaner.

Karni Mata Temple, Bikaner

MG Road in Bikaner, Rajasthan, is a bustling thoroughfare that encapsulates the city's vibrant charm. Lined with shops, eateries, and vibrant markets, MG Road is the central hub for shopping and local experiences. From traditional Rajasthani crafts to modern amenities, the street offers a delightful mix of the contemporary and the traditional, making it a dynamic and lively part of Bikaner's urban landscape.

Station Road

Station Road in Bikaner is a vital thoroughfare, connecting the city's railway station to its bustling core. Lined with shops, hotels, and eateries, the road is a lively introduction to Bikaner. Travelers often find convenience and a range of services along this route, making it a significant gateway to explore the historical and cultural treasures of the city.

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Top 10 Places to Visit Near Bikaner

Top 10 Places to Visit Near Bikaner , a city rich in Rajput history and desert charm, lie several fascinating destinations waiting to be explored. Just a short distance away, travelers can discover a diverse range of attractions, from sacred temples to wildlife sanctuaries and historic forts.

One notable site is Deshnoke , home to the renowned Karni Mata Temple , where thousands of rats are revered as sacred. This unique temple attracts visitors from far and wide, offering a blend of spirituality and architectural marvel.

For those interested in wildlife, the Gajner Palace and Wildlife Sanctuary present an opportunity to witness diverse flora and fauna in a picturesque setting. Formerly a hunting ground for the Bikaner Maharajas, it now serves as a sanctuary for various species, set against the backdrop of a serene lake.

History enthusiasts can venture to Khimsar , where the majestic Khimsar Fort stands as a testament to Rajasthan’s royal legacy. Converted into a heritage hotel, the fort offers an immersive experience of Rajput grandeur and hospitality, Bikaner Tour Planner .

Nature lovers will be captivated by the Tal Chhapar Sanctuary, known for its population of migratory birds and graceful blackbucks roaming amidst vast grasslands. Similarly, Kheechan beckons with its spectacle of thousands of Demoiselle Cranes flocking to the village during winter.

Further afield, Phalodi and Pokhran provide glimpses into Rajasthan’s rustic charm and historical significance. Phalodi’s old havelis and salt industries offer insights into traditional life, while Pokhran’s fort and nuclear test site intrigue visitors with tales of valor and modern history.

Whether seeking spiritual solace, wildlife encounters, or historical intrigue, the destinations near Bikaner promise unforgettable experiences, weaving together the tapestry of Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage and natural splendor.

Deshnoke (Karni Mata Temple)

Distance from Bikaner: Approximately 30 km Highlight: Famous for the Karni Mata Temple, also known as the Rat Temple, where thousands of holy rats are worshipped.

Deshnoke, home to the famous Karni Mata Temple , is situated around 30 kilometers south of Bikaner in the Indian state of Rajasthan. The Karni Mata Temple is a unique and revered Hindu temple known for its extraordinary population of rats, which are considered sacred and are worshipped by devotees.

The temple, also known as the Temple of Rats, is dedicated to Karni Mata, a Hindu sage believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga. According to legend, when Karni Mata’s son died, she requested Yama, the god of death, to revive him. Yama eventually granted her request, allowing her son and all of her male descendants to be reincarnated as rats.

These rats, known as “kabbas,” roam freely within the temple premises and are believed to be auspicious. Devotees visit the temple to seek blessings and offer food to the rats, which is considered a sign of good fortune.

Apart from its unique inhabitants, the Karni Mata Temple is an architectural marvel, showcasing intricate marble carvings, silver doors, and beautiful panels depicting various Hindu deities.

Visitors to Deshnoke can experience the spiritual ambiance of the Karni Mata Temple and witness the fascinating coexistence of humans and rats in this sacred place. The temple attracts tourists and devotees from all over the world, making it a must-visit destination near Bikaner Tour Packages .

Distance from Bikaner: About 32 km Highlight: Known for the Gajner Palace, which has been converted into a heritage hotel, and the Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary nearby, offering a peaceful retreat with a chance to see some wildlife.

Gajner is a picturesque destination located approximately 32 kilometers southeast of Bikaner in the Indian state of Rajasthan. The highlight of Gajner is the majestic Gajner Palace, which was once a hunting resort of the Bikaner Maharajas. Set amidst the serene surroundings of the Gajner Lake, the palace offers a glimpse into the royal heritage of Rajasthan.

Constructed in the late 19th century by Maharaja Ganga Singh Ji of Bikaner, the Gajner Palace showcases a magnificent blend of Rajputana and Mughal architectural styles. The palace boasts stunning red sandstone structure, intricate carvings, and beautiful jharokhas (balconies) that overlook the sprawling gardens and the tranquil lake.

Today, Gajner Palace has been transformed into a heritage hotel, offering guests a luxurious retreat amidst the historical ambiance. Visitors can experience the grandeur of the royal lifestyle by staying in elegantly appointed rooms and suites adorned with antique furnishings and modern amenities.

Apart from the palace, Gajner is also renowned for its wildlife sanctuary, which surrounds the Gajner Palace complex. The sanctuary is home to various species of animals and birds, including chinkara (Indian gazelle), blackbucks, blue bulls, and numerous migratory birds.

Visitors to Gajner can enjoy leisurely walks around the lake, indulge in birdwatching, embark on wildlife safaris, or simply relax amidst the serene natural beauty. The tranquil atmosphere and the historical charm of Gajner make it a popular destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Distance from Bikaner: Approximately 50 km Highlight: A spiritual getaway known for its temples and the Kolayat Lake, which is a significant site for religious pilgrimages, especially during the Kolayat Fair.

Kolayat, located approximately 50 kilometers south of Bikaner in Rajasthan, India, is a historical town known for its religious significance and cultural heritage. The town is centered around the Kolayat Lake, a sacred body of water believed to have been created by Lord Shiva.

The primary attraction in Kolayat is the Kolayat Temple, dedicated to Kapil Muni, a revered sage in Hinduism. The temple complex is an architectural marvel, featuring intricately carved pillars, domes, and marble facades. Devotees flock to the temple to seek blessings and participate in religious rituals, especially during auspicious occasions and festivals.

One of the most significant festivals celebrated in Kolayat is the Kolayat Fair, held annually in the month of Kartik (October-November) during the Hindu lunar calendar. The fair attracts pilgrims and tourists from far and wide, who come to take a holy dip in the Kolayat Lake and pay homage to the deity. The fair is also a vibrant cultural extravaganza, featuring folk music and dance performances, camel races, and traditional handicrafts.

Apart from its religious and cultural attractions, Kolayat is known for its scenic beauty and tranquil ambiance. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the lakeside promenade, surrounded by lush greenery and serene surroundings. The Kolayat Lake is also a popular spot for birdwatching, with numerous migratory birds flocking to the area during the winter months.

Overall, Kolayat offers a unique blend of spirituality, history, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the region around Bikaner.

Distance from Bikaner: About 170 km Highlight: Often referred to as the ‘Salt City’ due to its salt industries, Phalodi is also home to beautiful havelis and the Khichan Bird Sanctuary, famous for attracting thousands of migratory Demoiselle Cranes.

Phalodi is a historic town located approximately 170 kilometers south of Bikaner in the Indian state of Rajasthan. Known as the “Salt City,” Phalodi is renowned for its salt industries and rich cultural heritage.

One of the notable attractions in Phalodi is the Phalodi Fort, also known as the Lal Niwas Palace. Built in the 18th century, this imposing fort reflects the architectural splendor of Rajasthan. The fort boasts intricately carved stone facades, ornate jharokhas (balconies), and spacious courtyards. Today, parts of the fort have been converted into heritage hotels, offering visitors a chance to experience the regal charm of Rajasthan.

Phalodi is also famous for its havelis, traditional mansions adorned with exquisite frescoes and intricate artwork. These havelis showcase the opulent lifestyle of the wealthy merchants and nobles of bygone eras. Visitors can take leisurely walks through the narrow lanes of Phalodi to admire these architectural marvels and immerse themselves in the town’s rich cultural heritage.

Apart from its architectural wonders, Phalodi offers insights into Rajasthan’s traditional way of life. The bustling markets of Phalodi are a treasure trove of handicrafts, textiles, and local delicacies, providing visitors with a glimpse into the vibrant culture of the region.

Nature enthusiasts can explore the nearby salt pans and wetlands, which are home to a variety of bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and cranes. The Phalodi region is a paradise for birdwatchers, especially during the winter months when migratory birds flock to the area in large numbers.

Overall, Phalodi is a hidden gem in the heart of Rajasthan, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient forts, admiring architectural marvels, or experiencing the tranquility of nature, Phalodi has something to offer for every traveler.

Distance from Bikaner: Roughly 153 km Highlight: Offers a mix of history and nature. The Khimsar Fort and Sand Dunes Village are prime attractions, providing an authentic desert experience along with a peek into royal living.

Khimsar is a captivating destination located approximately 153 kilometers southeast of Bikaner in the Indian state of Rajasthan. Nestled amidst the sands of the Thar Desert, Khimsar is renowned for its ancient fort, sand dunes, and traditional Rajasthani hospitality.

The highlight of Khimsar is the magnificent Khimsar Fort, which stands as a testimony to the region’s rich heritage and architectural grandeur. Built in the 15th century by Rao Karamsiji, the fort has been meticulously preserved and converted into a heritage hotel, offering guests an opportunity to experience royal luxury amidst historical ambiance. The fort features intricately carved balconies, courtyards, and chambers adorned with beautiful frescoes and antique furnishings.

Beyond the fort, Khimsar is surrounded by vast stretches of sand dunes, offering visitors a chance to experience the magic of the desert landscape. Travelers can embark on camel safaris or jeep excursions to explore the golden sands and witness breathtaking sunsets over the horizon.

For those interested in wildlife, the Khimsar region is home to the Khimsar Sand Dunes Village, a conservation area where visitors can spot a variety of desert wildlife, including desert foxes, chinkara (Indian gazelles), and numerous bird species.

Additionally, Khimsar hosts various cultural events and activities, providing visitors with an opportunity to immerse themselves in Rajasthani traditions and folklore. Folk music and dance performances, traditional puppet shows, and village tours are some of the experiences that travelers can enjoy during their stay in Khimsar.

Overall, Khimsar offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the region around Bikaner. Whether you’re seeking a glimpse into Rajasthan’s royal past, an adventure in the desert, or an encounter with vibrant local culture, Khimsar has something to offer for every visitor.

Tal Chhapar Sanctuary

Distance from Bikaner: Around 132 km Highlight: A haven for wildlife enthusiasts, especially known for its large population of Blackbucks. The sanctuary is also home to a variety of bird species, making it a great spot for bird watching.

Tal Chhapar Sanctuary, situated approximately 132 kilometers east of Bikaner in the Indian state of Rajasthan, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Spread over an area of around 7 square kilometers, this sanctuary is primarily known for its population of blackbucks and a variety of avian species.

The sanctuary’s landscape primarily comprises grasslands interspersed with small shrubs and trees, providing an ideal habitat for blackbucks, which are commonly seen grazing in the open meadows. Apart from blackbucks, visitors to Tal Chhapar Sanctuary may also spot other wildlife species such as desert foxes, desert cats, and blue bulls (nilgais).

However, the sanctuary is most famous for its avian diversity, particularly during the winter months when it becomes a haven for migratory birds. Birdwatchers can spot a wide range of species, including raptors like eagles, falcons, and harriers, as well as various waders, larks, and pipits.

One of the highlights of Tal Chhapar Sanctuary is the presence of the endangered bird species, the lesser florican (also known as the likh or kharmor). This elusive bird, resembling a small bustard, is found in very few locations across India, and Tal Chhapar Sanctuary is one of its important habitats.

Visitors to Tal Chhapar Sanctuary can explore the area on foot or in vehicles, with trained guides providing insights into the sanctuary’s ecology and wildlife. The best time to visit the sanctuary is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is pleasant, and migratory birds flock to the area.

Overall, Tal Chhapar Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to experience the biodiversity of the Thar Desert and witness the conservation efforts aimed at protecting its flora and fauna. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, birdwatcher, or nature lover, a visit to Tal Chhapar Sanctuary is sure to be a memorable experience.

Distance from Bikaner: Approximately 160 km Highlight: Famous for the spectacular sight of thousands of migratory cranes and other birds during the winter months, Kheechan has become a preferred spot for bird watchers and nature lovers.

Kheechan is a small village located approximately 156 kilometers south of Bikaner in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is renowned for being a sanctuary for migratory Demoiselle Cranes (locally known as “Kurja”) during the winter months.

The village of Kheechan hosts one of the largest congregations of Demoiselle Cranes in the world. These migratory birds travel thousands of kilometers from their breeding grounds in Central Asia to spend the winter in the warm climate of Rajasthan. The birds arrive in Kheechan around October and stay until March, making it an ideal time for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts to visit.

The villagers of Kheechan have a long-standing tradition of feeding the cranes, providing them with grains and water. This centuries-old practice has led to a unique bond between the villagers and the cranes. It is believed that the birds began arriving in larger numbers after a local legend, Shri Ganga Singhji, started feeding them during times of drought, earning him the nickname “Bird Man of India.”

During the peak season, visitors to Kheechan can witness the spectacular sight of thousands of Demoiselle Cranes gathered around the feeding areas. The birds create a mesmerizing atmosphere with their calls and graceful movements, offering a truly unforgettable experience for birdwatchers and photographers.

Apart from birdwatching, Kheechan also offers opportunities to explore the rural life and culture of Rajasthan. Visitors can interact with the friendly villagers, visit local markets, and witness traditional Rajasthani customs and festivities.

Overall, Kheechan is a hidden gem for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a rare opportunity to witness the natural spectacle of thousands of migratory Demoiselle Cranes in their winter habitat. A visit to Kheechan is sure to leave a lasting impression and provide insights into the harmonious relationship between humans and wildlife.

Distance from Bikaner: About 240 km Highlight: Known as the “Khajuraho of Rajasthan” for its ancient temples dating back to the 8th and 11th centuries, showcasing brilliant architectural styles and carvings.

Osian, located approximately 65 kilometers northwest of Jodhpur and around 175 kilometers southwest of Bikaner in Rajasthan, India, is an ancient town famous for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. Often referred to as the “Khajuraho of Rajasthan,” Osian is renowned for its beautifully sculpted temples, which date back to the 8th to 11th centuries.

The main attraction in Osian is its cluster of intricately carved Jain and Hindu temples, which showcase exquisite architecture and intricate stone carvings. The most prominent among these temples is the Sachiya Mata Temple, dedicated to the goddess Sachiya. This temple is adorned with ornate sculptures depicting various deities and mythological figures, making it a masterpiece of Rajasthani architecture.

Another notable temple in Osian is the Sun Temple (Surya Mandir), dedicated to the sun god Surya. This temple is renowned for its impressive architecture, featuring intricate carvings and a sanctum adorned with beautiful sculptures.

Apart from its temples, Osian is also known for its picturesque sand dunes, which offer a perfect setting for camel safaris and desert camping. Visitors can enjoy thrilling rides across the golden sands, witness mesmerizing sunsets, and experience the tranquility of the desert landscape.

Osian also boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with traditional folk music and dance performances being held regularly. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan by witnessing performances of folk artists and musicians.

Overall, Osian offers a perfect blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the region around Jodhpur and Bikaner. Whether you’re interested in ancient temples, desert adventures, or experiencing Rajasthani culture, Osian has something to offer for everyone.

Distance from Bikaner: Roughly 116 km Highlight: Famous for the Nagaur Fort, a beautiful example of Rajput-Mughal architecture, and the annual Nagaur Fair, which is one of the largest cattle fairs in India.

Nagaur, located approximately 135 kilometers northeast of Jodhpur and about 160 kilometers southeast of Bikaner in Rajasthan, India, is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage. It is renowned for its magnificent forts, ancient temples, and vibrant festivals.

One of the main attractions in Nagaur is the Nagaur Fort, also known as Ahhichatragarh Fort. This imposing fort, built in the 12th century, stands as a symbol of Nagaur’s rich history and architectural splendor. The fort complex includes several palaces, temples, and gardens, reflecting the grandeur of Rajasthan’s royal past.

Another significant landmark in Nagaur is the Tarkeen Dargah, a revered Sufi shrine dedicated to Hazrat Hamiduddin Nagauri. Devotees from various parts of the country visit the dargah to seek blessings and pay their respects to the saint.

Nagaur is also famous for its cattle fair, known as the Nagaur Cattle Fair, which is one of the largest in Rajasthan. Held annually during the month of Magh (January-February) according to the Hindu calendar, the fair attracts thousands of traders, farmers, and tourists who come to buy and sell livestock, participate in camel races, and enjoy cultural performances.

In addition to its forts and festivals, Nagaur is known for its rich culinary heritage, with traditional Rajasthani cuisine being a highlight for visitors. Local delicacies such as dal bati churma, ker sangri, and gatte ki sabzi offer a tantalizing culinary experience for food enthusiasts.

Overall, Nagaur offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and tradition, making it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the region around Jodhpur and Bikaner. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient forts, experiencing vibrant festivals, or savoring authentic Rajasthani cuisine, Nagaur has something to offer for everyone.

Distance from Bikaner: Approximately 205 km southwest of Bikaner. Attraction: Famous for its fort and as the site of India’s nuclear tests, Pokhran lies in the Thar Desert. The Pokhran Fort is a must-visit for its historical significance and architectural beauty.

Pokhran, situated approximately 112 kilometers northwest of Jodhpur and about 187 kilometers southwest of Bikaner in Rajasthan, India, is a historic town with significant cultural and historical importance. It is best known as the site of India’s nuclear tests in 1974 and 1998, which brought global attention to the town.

The most prominent attraction in Pokhran is the Pokhran Fort, also known as Balagarh Fort. This ancient fort, built in the 14th century, stands as a testimony to Pokhran’s rich history and architectural heritage. The fort is renowned for its massive walls, bastions, and intricately carved gates, reflecting the grandeur of Rajasthan’s medieval architecture.

Apart from its historical significance, Pokhran is also famous for its serene desert landscape and sand dunes. Visitors can enjoy camel safaris, jeep rides, and desert camping amidst the golden sands, offering a unique opportunity to experience the tranquility of the Thar Desert.

For those interested in spirituality, Pokhran is home to several temples and shrines dedicated to Hindu deities. The Baba Ramdev Temple and the Shri Balaji Temple are among the most visited religious sites in the town, attracting devotees and pilgrims from far and wide.

Pokhran also offers insights into traditional Rajasthani culture and lifestyle. Visitors can explore the local markets, interact with the friendly villagers, and witness traditional folk music and dance performances, providing a glimpse into the vibrant cultural heritage of the region.

Overall, Pokhran is a fascinating destination that combines history, spirituality, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit for travelers exploring the region around Jodhpur and Bikaner. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient forts, experiencing desert adventures, or immersing yourself in Rajasthani culture, Pokhran has something to offer for every traveler.

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Places To Visit In Bikaner

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1. Junagarh Fort

0 km from city center 1 out of 23 Places To Visit in Bikaner

For a change, this is one of the few forts which is not built on a hill. Instead, this fort, built in the arid region of the Thar Desert, is famous for its marvellous architecture, intricate carvings which leave travellers mesmerized.

2. Karni Mata Temple

26 km from city center 2 out of 23 Places To Visit in Bikaner

Located in Deshnoke, 30 km from Bikaner, Karni mata temple is the place where devotees and rats share a special bond. The temple is heavily influenced by mogul architecture and the entire temple is built with beautiful white marble.

3. Gajner Palace

27 km from city center 3 out of 23 Places To Visit in Bikaner

Gajner Palace is located in the city of Bikaner on the banks of Gajner Lake. This regal palace was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh as a hunting lodge for him and his family but was converted to a hotel in 1976. Gajner Palace offers you a variety of leisure activities from boat rides to desert safaris. Built as a traditional Rajasthani Palace, it is an architectural beauty that now is modernised to host guests. The entire vicinity is filled with lush green trees while the glorious palace itself offers recreational activities like billiards, lawn tennis, cycling, bird watching and wildlife safaris.

4. Lallgarh Palace

3 km from city center 4 out of 23 Places To Visit in Bikaner

Lallgarh Palace was constructed for the Maharaja of Bikaner, Maharaja Ganga Singh, between 1902 and 1926. The palace built in European architecture style has now been opened up for tourists as a Heritage Hotel, and the entire estate comes under the National Heritage Trust. The estate also houses a museum named Shri Sadul Museum, where you can find traces of Rajasthani Royalties and get an insight into their extravagant lifestyle.

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2 km from city center 5 out of 23 Places To Visit in Bikaner

Among all other havelis like Rikhji Bagri ki Haveli, Haveli of Bhairondan, Daga Chowk Havelis and Sampatlala Agarwal Haveli, Rampuria group of Havelis are known for their more than 400 years old architecture splendour. With intricate details of jharokhas and carvings, havelis are no less than palaces.

6. National Research Centre On Camel

7 km from city center 6 out of 23 Places To Visit in Bikaner

Identified as one of the important tourist place of Bikaner, National Research Centre On Camel is open for tourists during afternoon. Tourists can see the camel of different breeds and their behavior.

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7. Bikaner Camel Festival

0 km from city center 7 out of 23 Places To Visit in Bikaner

A two day event organized every year in the month of January, the Camel festival has some spectacular and unusual camel performances like camel races, camel dances, and the bumpy, neck shaking camel rides take place at this event.

8. Bhandasar Jain Temple

2 km from city center 8 out of 23 Places To Visit in Bikaner

Bhandasar Jain Temple is one of the 27 beautiful Jain temples located in Bikaner. This temple is dedicated to the fifth Tirthankara, Sumatinath and it is also considered to be the most beautiful and the highest temple.

9. Royal Cenotaphs

7 km from city center 9 out of 23 Places To Visit in Bikaner

The Royal Cenotaphs is the cremation ground of the foyal families of Bikaner. It is an architectural treat for the tourists. The splendid structure with intricately carved marble pillars display legends of Lord Krishna and other beautiful traditional designs. The oldest monument on the ground was installed in the honour of Rao Kalyanmal and the earliest is the one made for Maharaja Karni Singh.

10. Kodamdesar Temple

1 km from city center 10 out of 23 Places To Visit in Bikaner

Built by the founder of Bikaner, Rao Bikaji, Kodamdesar Bhairu Ji Temple has been religiously important for the Hindus. The presiding deity is Lord Bhairu ji who was born from the place between the eyebrows, also called the third eye of Lord Shiva. Hence, the deity is considered to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva and his ferocious form.

11. Sadul Singh Museum

1 km from city center 11 out of 23 Places To Visit in Bikaner

Dedicated to the Maharajas of Bikaner, Maharaja Ganga Singh, Maharaja Karni Singh and Maharaja Sadul Singh, the Sadul Singh Museum has a fabulous collection of artefacts belonging to the kings, paintings, trophies, weapons, photographs to mention a few. It is the best place to get insights into the heroic activities of the Maharajas.

12. Shiv Bari Temple

128 km from city center 12 out of 23 Places To Visit in Bikaner

Built of red sand stone, the Shiv Bari Temple is located about 6km from Bikaner. Fortified by a high wall the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple has a beautiful wall panting of Nandi Bull facing the Shiva Lingam.

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13. Ganga Singh Museum

1 km from city center 13 out of 23 Places To Visit in Bikaner

Ganga Singh Museum has a marvellous collection of artefacts belonging to the Harappan Civilisation and Gupta Dynasty. The museum is a perfect attraction for history and archaeological buffs as the stunning antiques like pottery, paintings, terracotta artwork, etc. are sure to give one a peep into the rich ancient heritage of India.

14. Station Road

1 km from city center 14 out of 23 Places To Visit in Bikaner

The Station Road market is replete with numerous shops and small time vendors. This market is a fabulous place to acquire embroidered footwear (jootis), local fabrics, leather goods and wood as well as traditional artifacts.

15. Prachina Museum

0 km from city center 15 out of 23 Places To Visit in Bikaner

Prachina Museum was established in 2000 by the daughter of Maharaja Narendra Singhji, Siddhi Kumari and has a stunning collection exhibiting royal apparel, accessories, perfumes, textiles, artwork, unique class artefacts, cutlery, crockery and portraits of the Maharajas. The objects on display provide a sneak peek into the rich lifestyle of the royals of Bikaner.

16. Sursagar lake

1 km from city center 16 out of 23 Places To Visit in Bikaner

Sursagar Lake was dug out during the reign of Maharaja Sur Singh to curb water shortage in the region. With well maintained surroundings and proper seating arrangement around the mesmerizing lake, it is a famous attraction and a preferred picnic spot in the city.

17. Laxmi Niwas Palace

3 km from city center 17 out of 23 Places To Visit in Bikaner

Once a royal palace of Maharaja Ganga Singh, Laxmi Niwas Palace is a stunning attraction which is now open to the public as a heritage hotel. The architectural beauty of the palace and its rich historic and heritage value draw guests in large numbers. The grand palace also has a museum that can be explored to get a glimpse into the royalty of Bikaner.

18. Desert Safari

3 km from city center 18 out of 23 Places To Visit in Bikaner

The ships of desert, Camels, enable us to discover some of the beautiful and relatively unexplored regions of Bikaner. You can witness the vibrancy of colors, jubilant music, men with colorful turbans and massive moustaches and an evening full of dance and music.

19. Kote Gate

1 km from city center 19 out of 23 Places To Visit in Bikaner

If you are a shopaholic then Kote Gate is full of surprises for you. You can shop for buffed camel hide articles, miniature paintings, Khadi industry articles, as well as wood carvings apart form mouth watering Bhujia and Rosogollahs here.

20. City Shopping

0 km from city center 20 out of 23 Places To Visit in Bikaner

Streets of Bikaner are a shopper's delight! From traditional clothes and footwear to handicrafts and eateries - all are available in the locals Bazaars of Bikaner.

21. Devi Kund

4 km from city center 21 out of 23 Places To Visit in Bikaner

Located around 8km from Bikaner, Devi Kund consists of royal cenotaphs or chhatris of brave rulers of Bika dynasty. This royal crematorium houses several cenotaphs.

22. Kolayat

41 km from city center 22 out of 23 Places To Visit in Bikaner

Kolayat is a quaint little town famous for the Kapil Muni Fair, the largest fair in the city, the sacred waters of the Kolayat Lake and the divine Kolayat Temple. It is, therefore, a famous pilgrimage. Legend states that Kapil Muni stopped here and meditated to bring about peace and harmony when he was passing by.

23. Sri Laxminath Temple

2 km from city center 23 out of 23 Places To Visit in Bikaner

Built in the 14th Century by Maharaja Rao Lunakaran, Sri Laxminath Temple is the oldest temple in the city. The presiding deities are Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. The colourful architecture with sculptures, painting and silver artwork and the rich religious significance of the temple attracts tourists in large numbers.

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Top 10 Places to Visit Near Bikaner

A must-visit destination near Bikaner is a delightful journey through the rich tapestry of culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes that this region offers. Bikaner , a vibrant city nestled in the northern part of Rajasthan , India, is known for its stunning palaces, magnificent forts, and a unique blend of traditional Rajasthani culture. However, the allure of Bikaner extends beyond its city limits, beckoning travelers to explore the treasures that lie in its vicinity. This guide aims to unveil ten such gems that promise an unforgettable experience to every traveler venturing near Bikaner.

Table of Contents

10 Must-Visit Places Near Bikaner – A Traveler’s Guide

1. devikot: the forgotten sands of time.

Nestled approximately 80 km from Bikaner, Devikot offers a poignant glimpse into ancient histories and cultures that have ebbed away with time. The remnants of fortifications whisper tales of a bygone era, inviting the curious traveler to ponder over the civilizations that once thrived in this desert landscape. The archaeological significance of Devikot is matched by its serene natural beauty, making it a captivating destination for both history buffs and nature lovers alike.

How to Reach: The most convenient way to reach Devikot from Bikaner is by road. You can hire a taxi or take a private vehicle, driving through the scenic landscapes of Rajasthan. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.

2. Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary: A Respite for Nature Lovers

Located around 75 km from Bikaner, Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary is an emerald oasis amidst the arid terrains of Rajasthan. Once a royal hunting ground, it now serves as a sanctuary for myriad species of birds and animals. The Gajner Palace, perched on the lake’s edge, adds a touch of regal elegance to the wilderness. The sanctuary is a perfect retreat for those seeking tranquility and an opportunity to connect with nature.

How to Reach: Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary is easily accessible by road from Bikaner. Local buses, taxis, and private cars can take you to Gajner. The drive is relatively short, roughly 1 to 1.5 hours, offering picturesque views along the way.

3. Kolayat: An Oasis of Spirituality

Kolayat, approximately 90 km from Bikaner, is a spiritual haven with its serene lake surrounded by temples and ghats. It is renowned for the Kolayat Fair, a vibrant spectacle that draws devotees and tourists alike. The sacred waters and peaceful ambiance offer a soulful respite from the bustle of daily life, making Kolayat a must-visit for those in search of spiritual rejuvenation and cultural immersion.

How to Reach: Kolayat can be reached by road from Bikaner. Regular buses ply between Bikaner and Kolayat, and taxis are also available for hire. The journey by road takes approximately 1.5 hours, making it an easy day trip.

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4. Phalodi: The City of Golden Sands

About 100 km from Bikaner lies Phalodi, often referred to as the ‘Salt City’ for its proximity to salt sources and ‘Golden City’ for its enchanting havelis made of golden sandstone. Phalodi is a confluence of history, architecture, and nature, particularly famous for the spectacle of migrating cranes at the nearby Khichan village. This destination offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.

How to Reach: Phalodi is accessible from Bikaner by both road and rail. The most direct route is by train, with several trains connecting Bikaner to Phalodi daily. The journey takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive or hire a taxi, enjoying the desert scenery along the way.

5. Deshnok: The Abode of Karni Mata

Deshnok, located around 70 km from Bikaner, houses the enigmatic Karni Mata Temple, where thousands of holy rats are revered and protected. This temple’s unique devotion to rats as sacred beings sets it apart, drawing pilgrims and curious travelers from all corners of the globe. The blend of deep-rooted faith and distinctive practices makes Deshnok a fascinating study of devotion and tradition.

How to Reach: Deshnok is well-connected to Bikaner by road and rail. Regular buses and trains run between Bikaner and Deshnok, making it easy for visitors to reach the Karni Mata Temple. The trip takes about 30 to 45 minutes by road and slightly longer by train.

Explore More:  Karni Mata Temple, Bikaner: Things To Do, Timings, How To Reach & Activities

6. Khimsar: A Blend of History and Wilderness

Situated approximately 95 km from Bikaner, Khimsar offers a compelling mix of history and natural beauty. The Khimsar Fort, standing tall amidst the dunes, tells tales of valour and chivalry. Now a luxury resort, it provides guests with a taste of royal living while allowing them to explore the untouched beauty of the Thar Desert. Adventure activities like dune bashing and camel rides add to the allure of Khimsar.

How to Reach: Khimsar is best reached by road from Bikaner. Though there are no direct trains to Khimsar, hiring a taxi or driving a private vehicle allows travelers to enjoy the journey through Rajasthan’s countryside. The drive takes approximately 2 hours.

7. Sardarshahar: The Golden City of Art

Roughly 100 km from Bikaner, Sardarshahar is a testament to Rajasthan’s rich architectural and artistic heritage. Famous for its intricately carved wooden havelis and the ancient Clock Tower, the city is a treasure trove for art enthusiasts and history lovers. The craftsmanship displayed in the buildings and streets of Sardarshahar reflects the skilled artistry and cultural depth of the region.

How to Reach: Sardarshahar can be reached from Bikaner via road. Buses and taxis are available for the journey, which takes around 2 to 2.5 hours. The road trip is an excellent way to experience the rural landscapes of Rajasthan.

8. Salasar Balaji: A Pilgrimage of Faith

Located about 100 km from Bikaner, Salasar Balaji is a prominent religious site dedicated to Lord Hanuman. This temple attracts devotees from across India, especially during the Chaitra and Ashwin Purnimas when massive fairs are held. The faith and devotion palpable in the air, combined with the temple’s architectural beauty, offer a deeply spiritual experience to visitors.

How to Reach: Reaching Salasar Balaji from Bikaner involves a road journey, as there is no direct train service. You can opt for state-run buses, private coaches, or taxis. The trip usually takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, offering a glimpse into the vibrant culture and scenery of Rajasthan.

9. Kheechan: The Avian Paradise

Approximately 95 km from Bikaner, Kheechan is a haven for bird lovers, known worldwide for the annual arrival of thousands of Demoiselle Cranes. This small village has gained international fame for its successful conservation efforts and the warm welcome it extends to these migratory birds. Visitors can witness the spectacular sight of cranes flocking in the skies, making Kheechan a unique wildlife and environmental conservation success story.

How to Reach: The best way to reach Kheechan from Bikaner is by road. Although there are no direct trains to Kheechan, buses and taxis frequently make the journey, taking around 2 hours. This allows visitors to marvel at the desert’s beauty en route.

10. Bajju: An Escapade into Rural Rajasthan

About 80 km from Bikaner, Bajju offers a peek into the authentic rural life of Rajasthan. With its small forts, vibrant markets, and traditional Rajasthani hospitality, Bajju is a destination that charms with its simplicity and warmth. It presents an opportunity to experience the state’s rustic beauty, cultural richness, and the unspoiled lifestyle of its villages.

How to Reach: Bajju is primarily accessible by road from Bikaner. While there is no direct train service, buses and taxis offer a comfortable journey. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, passing through picturesque villages and landscapes.

Exploring the destinations near Bikaner is a journey through a land of contrasts, where the ancient and the modern, the desert and the lakes, the sacred and the royal coexist in harmony. Each site narrates a story, be it of architectural splendor, cultural heritage, or natural beauty, making Bikaner and its vicinity a mosaic of experiences waiting to be discovered. This guide, while scratching the surface of what this region has to offer, hopes to inspire travelers to embark on their adventures, uncovering the many layers of Bikaner’s rich tapestry.

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12 Unique & Fun Places to Visit in Bikaner, India (2024)!

By: Author Sophie Pearce

Posted on Last updated: January 1, 2024

Categories INDIA , RAJASTHAN

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

If you’re looking for all the amazing places to visit in Bikaner then you’ve come to the right place.

A lot of tourists who visit Rajasthan in India always choose the main cities of Jaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, and Udaipur. They don’t even think to consider this incredible city to the North West of the state.

Admittedly, I also was in that exact same boat and I am kicking myself now for not visiting sooner! 

Bikaner is an incredibly underrated city. 

It has all the vibrance of Rajasthan with its historic forts, colourful buildings, saris, turbans, and the desert.

But, it’s also far less touristy than the main cities making it the perfect place to see some of the ‘real’ Rajasthani charms.

From exploring temples that worship rats, walking around historic Haveli’s, visiting camel research centres, and dancing in royal palaces; I had an absolute blast here and I’m sure you will too.

Here are the most fun and unique places to visit in Bikaner!

Where is Bikaner in Rajasthan? 

Bikaner is located North West of Rajasthan and, you may be surprised to know, that it’s only around 100 kilometres from the Pakistan border! 

It’s located in the middle of the Thar Desert, similar to Jaisalmer, and so the temperatures can reach highs of up to 50 degrees in April, May, and June.

It’s easily accessible from the likes of Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Ajmer and you can reach there within around 5 hours. 

Is Bikaner worth a visit? 

I would 100% recommend that you add Bikaner to your list, you won’t be disappointed!

Bikaner has so much to offer visitors in terms of forts, palaces, temples, food, sweets, shopping, and the mysteries of the desert too! 

Plus, you won’t get FOMO as there are such incredible buildings full of colour, desert experiences that are no different Jaisalmer, and some of the tastiest food that the region has to offer.

It’s got its unique flavours which I’m sure you will love. 

The top 12 places to visit in Bikaner

1. junagarh fort.

Now, I know what you’re thinking, not ANOTHER fort in Rajasthan. But, hear me out. Bikaner fort has something unique to offer you when you visit. 

Junagarh Fort currently stands in the middle of the modern Bikaner city. It was constructed in 1589 and was called Chintamani fort in years gone by. 

When the royal family decided to switch locations to Lalgarh Palace in the 20th century, they renamed the fort Junagarh Fort meaning “old” fort. 

Don’t forget to climb to the top of the fort to see some of the fantastic views that it has to offer. You can see the whole city from here and it’s effortlessly picturesque.

What is inside Junagarh Fort 

There are so many different eras to this fort. Of course, there are the 16th-century parts that are still in amazing condition today. But, there are also modern parts to the fort too that were added in the 19th century. 

I fell in love with the mix of architecture here. From Bikaner’s signature red sandstone walls to marble facades in Mughal design. Each courtyard had something new to see. 

Inside the fort are numerous palaces and rooms to fall in love with. Personally, my favourite was Chandra Mahal which was filled with gold and jewels on every surface! It was almost blinding with all that glitz. 

Also, I loved this corridor that had the most ornate window carvings with stained glass in all different colours of the rainbow! 

There are also gorgeous rooms that were painted head to toe in clouds to represent the rain as Bikaner doesn’t see much here.

I guess in those days they didn’t have TV so this was as close as they could get to see some rain in action. 

There are also museums where you can learn about the royal family in Bikaner and see their extensive collection of cars and vehicles. 

The great thing about exploring this fort in Bikaner is that it’s not as busy as the other forts in Rajasthan. So, you can pretty much have the place to yourself, even in peak season!

Junagarh Fort is open from 10 am – 4.30 pm and costs 50 rupees for Indian tourists and 300 rupees for foreign tourists.

2. Rampuria Haveli 

Out of all the places to visit in Bikaner, this has to be the most iconic. 

I don’t know about you but I love to stalk locations I’m going to visit on Pinterest! Bikaner had some amazing photos on there and one of the locations that would constantly show up was its historic Havelis in the Old Town.

These buildings are a jewel in the crown of the Walled City and have been here since the 15th century! 

There are over 400 havelis that have survived through the centuries and you can really see the Rajput, Mughal, and British Colonial influence.

The most famous of these buildings is the iconic Rampuria Haveli which can be found on Joshiwara street. The famous author Aldous Huxley called this building “pride of Bikaner” and he’s not wrong, it is the most picture-worthy spot.

Nowadays these are mostly empty and owned by wealthy families who moved to Mumbai/Delhi. 

But, some of these buildings have also been transformed into museums. So, if you were feeling nosy to look inside, I’d say go for it!

All of the Havelis are made of the signature red sandstone in Bikaner with exquisite carving work. I could have spent all day taking photographs of them.

Unfortunately, you cannot go inside Rampuria Haveli, but it is a beautiful homestay you can book here . You can visit the outside of the Havelis 24 hours a day. Definitely best paired with a walking tour of Bikaner Old Town.

3. Streets of Bikaner Old Town 

One of my favourite parts of my guided tour of Bikaner was exploring the old town or the walled city. 

Bikaner was founded in the 15th century, so there’s lots of history to unfold around this area, you cannot miss it!

As well as the labyrinth of beautiful Havelis that are here, there are some gems to be found in these tiny streets.

Bhanwar Niwas Palace

Bhanwar Niwas sits in the walled city of Bikaner in Rampuria Street. It was the largest and grandest of all the havelis in the area and belonged to the Rampuria family.

Built in 1927 for Bhanwarlalji Rampuria, the design is very much of the period with a deco feel. The rooms are filled with gold furniture and it has a beautiful courtyard that sits right in the middle of it.

Today, it is known as Bhanwar Niwas Palace and is open to the public to stay for a few days. We popped in here just for a look into some of the rooms and it was an oasis of calm. Even though you’re only a few metres away from the old city!

You can have a look at booking your stay at Bhanwar Niwas by clicking here.

The man with the long moustache

When we were exploring what felt like endless streets, my guide Salender brought us to a blue house. The sign above the door was of a man pulling his moustache and all of a sudden it hit me, I had seen him before!

When I went to the Pushkar Camel Fair a few years, I saw a competition where they were measuring the best moustache. There were long ones, finely groomed ones, thick ones, and all sorts of other amazing tashes.

Amazingly enough, he recognised me! Which was a lovely surprise. We got talking and eventually, he showed me his moustache which I believe is a few metres long.

I took some fantastic photos here and I definitely think it’s worth meeting him and having a chat. Of course, I gave him a small tip for the photos as it’s how he makes a living.

If you did want to want to read more about the Bikaner camel festival read here.

Read more: My complete guide to the Pushkar Camel Fair

Street Food & shopping

Bikaner is famous for its Namkeen, a snack kind of like Bombay mix, so you can find this being sold here in the old town in lots of places.

But, the most famous shop is Bikharam Chandmal if you were looking to sample or buy souvenirs.

Also, Bikanervala , a company that is now massive in Delhi as a sweet and Namkeen shop, had its humble beginnings in Bikaner. It started as the sweets and namkeen shop Lalji over 115 years ago!

Also here you can find many tasty street food stalls and shops selling all sorts of souvenirs and textiles.

Although Bikaner is not as famous for its textiles as Jodhpur, there are still plenty of stalls to browse and buy some beautiful gifts. 

4. Bikaner Camel Research Centre

The ICAR- National Research Centre on Camel is a unique venture in India and one of the most interesting places to visit in Bikaner.

The centre has dedicated its research to studying different breeds of camel including their health, psychology, eating habits, and healing properties of their milk too. This is to further understand and protect them.

Unfortunately, due to the harsh conditions of the desert, camels are prone to skin diseases so here they get the help they need.

There are five types of camel that are protected here, the Bikaneri Camel, the Jaisalmeri Camel, Kachchhi Camel, the Mewari Camel, and the Jalori Camel.

When you visit the centre, make sure you take a good look around in all the pens at all the different camels and see if you can tell the differences between them.

My guide explained to me that Bikaner camels are the darkest, fluffiest, and have really long eyelashes.

If you’re lucky, you can also catch their milking and feeding time too. I was quite sad as some of the babies didn’t have mothers to suckle on. But, the staff are there to protect them and feed them from their own bottles. 

Try camel milk kulfi!

So, as well as cooing at all the incredible camels (and BABIES) in the centre, the one thing you must try before you leave is some camel milk products.

They have camel milk chai or coffee, but the best thing is their kulfi! It’s camel milk mixed in with saffron and it makes the tastiest of treats.

You can find them being sold outside the centre right next to the ticket desk! I love ice cream and, to me, didn’t taste that different. But, I’ll leave the taste test to you.

The Bikaner Camel Research centre is open daily for visitors from 12 pm-6 pm

5. Laxmi Niwas Palace / Lalgarh Palace 

If you’re into your history and love snooping in on rich family houses, then you have to check out Laxmi Niwas Palace and Lalgarh Palace nearby.

Lalgarh Palace, was built in the 20th century and still has a wing that is home to the Bikaner royal family. Laxmi Niwas Palace was built in the 19th century and used to be owned entirely by the Maharajas of Bikaner.

Now, both palaces in the same area have been converted into heritage hotels. So, anyone can explore and feel like a queen, or king for the weekend.

Even if you’re not staying here, it’s still worth having a look around as the place is almost like a museum. 

Some of the rooms have great exhibits about the royal family and the area. But, I will warn you that there is a lot of taxidermy on the walls from hunts that the Maharaja used to go on. 

Click here to book your stay at Laxmi Niwas Palace , or check rates for Lalgarh Palace here.

Enjoy a royal dinner at Laxmi Niwas

Even if you’re not staying at either of the palaces, it’s still worth heading here for a dinner fit for a maharaja . 

They serve up the most fantastic tahli in their restaurant and also have an alfresco BBQ that you can attend. This even is lit by candlelight in the gardens of the palace with traditional Rajasthani music and dancing!

I had the pleasure of visiting both in the day and the evening to these palaces. Narendra Bhawan, the sister property, had organised a special dinner just for us in the Swan Mahal room. 

Every wall was decorated in blue and golds and we had their expert chefs serve us some of their finest menu. 

The whole place is truly fit for royalty, so make sure you schedule some time to enjoy it in Bikaner!

6. Bhanda Shana Jain Temple

I didn’t explore many temples in Bikaner but Bhanda Shana Jain Temple stood out to me as the most underrated. 

This unassuming temple hidden in the old town was built in the 15th century, making it one of the oldest in the city. It was constructed by a man named Bhandasa Oswal. 

This is a Jain temple, which is a different religion from Hinduism and is dedicated to the 5th tirthankar Sumatinatha. Apparently, there is a legend that says that 40,000 kilograms of ghee were used when the temple was built! 

Although the temple appears small from the outside, the inside will amaze you! Inside, you will find the most beautiful paintings all over the walls. There is gold paint on the columns and intricate stories to be told from the artwork here. 

Like most temples in India, this will get very busy in the evening time for prayer. I would recommend visiting during the day to appreciate the art. 

Bhanda Shana Jain Temple is FREE to visit (but remember to give a donation), it’s open 24 hours a day!

7. Bikaner Royal Cenotaphs / Devi Kund Sagar

Just outside the city of Bikaner is the picturesque Royal Cenotaphs or, to locals, the Devi Kund Sagar.

This beautiful area filled with the finest examples of Mughal architecture is actually the cremation ground of the royal family so it’s important to remain respectful on your visit.

Make sure that you take your shoes off if you want to climb on one of the cenotaphs and you may have to pay a tip to take photos in the area. 

It only costs around 10 rupees to enter and it’s incredibly worth it, especially at sunset. 

On the grounds of the cenotaphs, is a small pink temple dedicated to Karni Mata. Here I met some of the locals who were sitting around the temple meditating or who had came to pray.

Karni Mata is known as the miracle goddess (more on that next) and so you’ll find lots of little trinkets and offerings made to her for wishes to be granted.

The Bikaner royal cenotaphs are open to the public Monday to Sunday – 10 am – 7 pm. 

8. Karni Mata Temple

Before I even got to Bikaner, I knew I wanted to visit this temple! It’s famous for being the only temple in the entire world that worships rats. 

Dedicated to Karni Mata, who was a sage and mystic in the 14th century, many people believe that she was a reincarnation of the Goddess Durga. 

There are thought to be over 25,000 rats that live and are worshipped at this temple. But, why? 

Well, the legend goes that Karni Mata’s son Laxman was drinking out of a pond and drowned. Karni Mata begged the God of Death, Yama, to revive him from the dead.

At first, Laxman refused but then after some convincing, he relented. He allowed Karni Mata’s son and all her male children to be reincarnated as rats. So, people believe that these rats are her reincarnated clan. 

Although potentially meeting so many rats may seem intimidating, it’s not as scary as it sounds. There’s a big different between sewer rats and rats that are worshipped at a temple!

I personally was fascinated by my visit and couldn’t stop staring at all of them! Make sure you lookout for the white rat which is meant to bring you good fortune.

It’s located around a little far out of the city in the town of Deshnoke but there are trains that run there every four hours and journeys only cost 100 rupees.

The station is just outside the temple. Also, you can get a private taxi for around 2,000 rupees for a return journey. 

Karni Mata Temple is FREE to visit but to take photos you’ll need to buy a photo pass. It’s open from 4 am – 10 pm at night.

Read my complete guide about what to expect at this amazing rat temple here !

9. Bikaner Miniature Arts Gallery

As well as Bikaner being home to the only rat temple in the world, there’s another spot that breaks a world record too!

Shiv Swami, the founder of Bikaner Miniature Arts, is a Guinness world record holder for the world’s smallest paintings. 

He won the title two years in a row for the most items that have been included inside a miniature painting. It’s the size of a postage stamp and contains animals, trees, and even 1,200 individual leaves (can you imagine the immense job of the judging panel to count them all?!).

I looked at the painting myself through a magnifying glass and the detail is truly captivating. 

As part of my visit to his workshop, he showed me some of his art and also gave me a sample of his work on one of my fingers! It brush was so tiny, I could hardly feel it being applied. But, when I took a look, I was shocked. 

Not only had he written my name, but also painted a small temple, birds, and blades of grass too. It was pretty impressive. 

Some of his art here, especially the smaller pieces, take months to do. He sells many of these pieces in his workshop, so if you’re looking for a truly unique gift to take home, I’d pop along and check it out!

They also do painting classes and courses for those who are interested, take a look at their website for details. 

Swami Arts is open from 6 am – 9 pm and you can meet the artist Shiv Swami inside who’ll be happy to chat with you about his work!

10. Chunnilal Tanwar (Sharbat) syrup shop 

Another thing that is a famous favourite with locals in Bikaner is Chunnilal Tanwar’s natural syrup shop. They serve up a number of organic syrups made with flowers to sample in their terracotta pottery. 

The owner is so famous, he’s even been featured in international newspapers!

You can try rose syrup mixed with water or coca-cola, saffron syrup mixed with milk, Sandal syrup with iced water too, and many others!

By far my favourite syrup was Jasmine. It was made with filtered water and crushed ice and I have never tasted anything so refreshing in the Rajasthan heat. 

I loved this syrup water so much that not only did I have three when I was here, I also continued to drink it at my hotel afterward! I wish I could have taken a bottle home but I had such limited space :( .

It’s cheap, tasty, popular with the locals, and incredibly revitalising so I would highly recommend a visit.

Chunnilal Sharbat is open from 11 am – 11 pm Monday to Sunday.

11. The Thar Desert

Similar to Jaisalmer, Bikaner is located in the middle of the Thar desert near Pakistan. So, you’re never a few kilometres away from discovering the mysteries of the sand dunes! 

If you’re not planning on heading to Jaisalmer while you’re in Rajasthan, make sure that you book a trip into the desert while you’re in Bikaner. 

Trips to the desert come in all sorts of itineraries. You can book a sundowner at the dunes for one evening, enjoy a camel safari into the desert, camp overnight there, or enjoy dinner there in the evening too. 

As part of my trip with Narendra Bhawan, we enjoyed a romantic evening under the stars in a private part of the Thar desert just for us! It was entirely lit by candlelight and was an absolute dream.

We had a private bar set up, a grill, and a chef making expertly prepared food, sofas, and cushions to perch on. All accompanied by our own private performance of a Rajasthani band with traditional dancing. 

I felt incredibly lucky to experience it. If you would like to check out Narendra Bhawan’s experiences see here.

Make sure you read my top tips for an Indian desert safari here to know how to prepare!

12. Narendra Bhawan

There are many royal palaces in Bikaner that are now luxury hotels but the one you should bookmark for your visit is Narendra Bhawan. 

This Haveli was the palace of the last reigning Maharaja of Bikaner, Narendra Singh Ji. He was born in 1948, just a year after India’s independence so was inspired by the Bombay Art Deco movement and traveled extensively throughout Europe.

In 2003, after he died here, the palace was transformed into a high-end hotel for all to visit. It now has over 82+ rooms, so it’s cosy enough to feel like home. 

The rooms are spacious and all have an Art Deco feel to the design. I almost sunk into the mattress it was so soft! 

As well as being a cosy retreat to get some well-needed rest, Narendra Bhawn also has one of the most spectacular pools on the strip. It’s located on their highest floor and you can see the whole city from up there.

They also have a spa where you can treat yourself to some pampering or they can organise some incredible experiences for you while you’re here. They do sundowners at the pastures, private dinner events, journeys into the desert and much more.

I was also obsessed with the food here at their signature restaurant Pearls & Chiffon (P&C). They had an international menu and both the local and international dishes were mouth-watering. I’m already dreaming of going back!

Read my full review of my wonderful stay here or click here to book in for the night

How to get around Bikaner in Rajasthan

The old town of Bikaner is easy to access on foot, so if you’re located in and around the walled city you can reach attractions in less than a few kilometres.

But, to access the new city, Karni Mata temple, or the Royal Cenotaphs, you will need a means of transport to get around. 

Unfortunately, there are no Uber or Ola cabs in Bikaner just yet. But, there are plenty of rickshaws in Bikaner for short journeys. 

However, if you are planning to visit a couple of attractions or places outside the city, I would hire a car for the day to make travelling around a lot easier.

Narendra Bhawan arranged a complete personalised day tour for me with a tour guide, Salender, and a luxury air-conditioned car.

I couldn’t believe it also came with a friendly driver who was also on BUTLER duties! Every time we would stop he would serve little bottles of Coca-Cola or water. It was a dream with the heat.

How to get to Bikaner in Rajasthan

Bikaner is easily accessible by public transport when you’re in the state of Rajasthan. 

Plus there are direct flights to Bikaner if you’re coming from cities outside of the state, so it makes the perfect place to spend a weekend!

Direct Flights to Bikaner

Bikaner has a domestic airport which is located around 15 kilometres from the city.

There are currently direct flights that run from Delhi and Jaipur and the prices are pretty reasonable. From Jaipur, I found tickets for less than 1,500 rupees (£17!) for one way!

I always price compare my flights with Skyscanner !

Trains to Bikaner

Bikaner has a railway station, Lalgarh Junction. This connects you with the main cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Jaisalmer, and Kota.

I always use Cleartrip to book train tickets in India as usually, the IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation) website is annoying to use if you’re not from India.

Trains are comfortable but not necessarily the quickest option to travel to Bikaner if you’re in Rajasthan. 

Check out my best India Train Travel tips here !

Buses to Bikaner

It may surprise you but actually, the quickest way I could find to travel from Jaipur to Bikaner was by bus! 

The RSRTC (Rajasthan State Road Transportation Corporation) has a luxury AC bus that runs from Jaipur bus station straight to the Bikaner bus stand. 

It only took four and a half hours on the way there and it was really comfy. We even got free water too! 

Regular bus tickets cost around 650 rupees. But, ladies get a discount on tickets in Rajasthan and so my ticket cost a mere 510 rupees (£6)! Not bad. 

Click here to access the RSRTC Bus website to book

Need more inspiration for Rajasthan?

So, that’s all the amazing places to visit in Bikaner. But, if you’re heading to more cities in Rajasthan after Bikaner, I have plenty of informative guides about the main cities there. Also, I have visited some less-visited cities and places too! 

I have travelled on and off in India for three years now and extensively in Rajasthan. I also used to live in Jaipur, so I know my way around pretty well.

My ultimate itinerary for Rajasthan

Things you need to know before you visit Jaipur

A photography guide for Jaipur

Why you will fall in love with Pushkar

Why Bundi should be on your list  

The best things to do in Udaipur 

My top travel advice for Jaisalmer 

The cheapest (but awesome) tiger safari in Rajasthan

A luxury guide to Jodhpur 

Top tips for the blue city of Jodhpur

Top tips for Holi Festival

Top places to visit in Alwar

Neemrana Fort Palace guide

Save these places to visit in Bikaner for later!

Saturday 1st of April 2023

Amazing write up Sophie. I too visited Bikaner last year but your blog kept me stick to know what's next there :D I know there are no Ola/Uber available so I hired a taxi from Om Taxi Zone from Jaipur and it turned out to be the best choice I made.

Sophie Pearce

Wednesday 5th of April 2023

Hi Veronica, glad you had a good time in Bikaner. It's gorgeous right? Oh I haven't heard of them must be new! Thanks for reading, Sophie x

Sukumar Jana

Wednesday 12th of October 2022

Very nice explanation about Bikaner.without visit I fell the beauty of the place. Thanks

Saturday 22nd of October 2022

Thanks for your kind words Sukumar! Sophie x

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• 32 Amazing Places To Visit In Bikaner: A Trip Through The Cultural Heritage In 2024

27 Oct 2021

Bikaner is a cultural paradise and a traveler’s haven. This city will hold you captive in its forts, mesmerize you with its scenic beauty, and astonish you with its glorious past. With extremely fascinating places to visit in Bikaner , the city will call you back time and again.

Easily accessible through air, rail and road, Bikaner boasts of a lot of tourist places that will interest history buffs and culture enthusiasts. Before we move on to the top tourist places in Bikaner, here are a few essentials that’ll help you plan your trip to Bikaner.

Best Time To Visit Bikaner

Forts & Museums: 9 Historical Places In Bikaner

Here are some must-see places in Bikaner that give you insights into the grandeur of the city’s kingdoms and their architectural excellence. A list of top museums and forts in Bikaner that you must explore if you want to take a plunge in the history of this beautiful place.

1. Junagarh Fort: A Blend Of Mughal & Gujarati Architecture

Image Credits: Glavo for Pixabay

An undefeated and unconquered fort that still stands tall and narrates tales of the glorious past, Junagarh fort is one of the truly mesmerizing places to visit in Bikaner. The unique amalgamation of Mughal and Gujarati architecture makes this fort one of its kind. Its soaring beauty and a picturesque surrounding provide photographers with a lot of options to capture.

• Har Mandir a.k.a Royal Chapel : This temple was built exclusively for the royal family.
• Karan Mahal a.k.a Public Hall : Considered to be the most tranquilizing place of this fort, it narrates the victorious tale of Karan Singh over Aurangzeb and highlights the aesthetic side of the royal family.
• Anup Mahal : The erstwhile administrative block, it is beautifully built with Italian tiles, exquisite lattice balconies & windows, and the exceptional wooden work.
• Chandra Mahal : A fine example of royal luxuries, the structure boasts of breathtaking luxurious rooms and mesmerizing gold work.
• Entry: INR 30 for Indians and INR 150 for foreigners
• Opening days: Open all days of the week; 10 am – 5 pm
• Location: Junagarh Fort Road, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001

      Must Read: 67 Places To Visit In Rajasthan: Get A Glimpse Of Rajputana Splendor

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2. Lalgarh Palace: In The Lap Of Luxury

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The beautiful red sandstone structure is one of the major tourist attractions in Bikaner. With a perfect blend of Rajput, Mughal, and European architectural style, this place is the true spirit of Rajasthan. Commissioned by Maharaja Ganga Singh in the memory of his father Maharaja Lal Singh between 1902 & 1926, the palace was later converted to Lalgarh Palace Hotel. The palace now houses the following:

• Entry fee: INR 10 for Indians and INR 20 for foreigners
• Opening days: Monday – Saturday; 10 am – 5:30 pm
• Entry fee: INR 5
• Opening days: Monday – Thursday, Saturday – Sunday; 10 am – 5 pm
• Lalgarh Palace Hotel: It is a heritage hotel owned and run by Maharaja Ganga Singh Ji Charitable Trust
• Location: NH15, Samta Nagar, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001

Suggested Read: Monsoon In Bikaner: A Guide To Explore The Best Of This Royal City!

3. Laxmi Niwas Palace: Former Abode Of Maharaja Ganga Singh

Laxmi Niwas Palace is the former residence of Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner, built between 1898 & 1902 in an Indo-Saracenic style by the British architect Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob. The graceful red sandstone structure is one of the most popular places to visit in Bikaner. The palace was converted into a hotel and is now run by the Golden Triangle Fort & Palace Pvt Ltd.

• Location: Lal Garh Campus, Dr Karni Singhji Road, Samta Nagar, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001

Suggested Read : 15 Tourist Places Near Jodhpur That Are Worth Extending Your Vacation In Rajasthan!

4. Gajner Palace & Wildlife Sanctuary: The Blissful Getaway

Located on the banks of the Gajner Lake, Gajner Palace is an architectural treat for visitors. The red sandstone structure is situated in the dense forest and one can spot flocks of migratory birds around the area. The beautiful architectural marvel is among the most amazing places to visit in Bikaner for a quiet weekend. The property also houses the Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary that was a famous hunting ground of the royal family.

• Location: Kolayat, Gajner, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334301
• Entry fee: INR 100
• Opening days: Open all days of the week
• Also Visit: Gajner Temple and Gajner Lake

Suggested Read: 20 Historical Places In Rajasthan That Will Take You Back To The Glorious Past

5. Rampuria Haveli: Traverse Bikaner Lanes

Bikaner is famous for its magnanimous havelis and houses that have been made with intricate carvings and jharokas that give a reminiscence of palaces itself. Rampuria havelis were constructed by the rich Bikaner merchants. A stroll in the lanes of this haveli will teleport you to hundreds of years back. So, miss out on this spot when exploring the top places to visit in Bikaner.

• Location: Joshiwara, Old Bikaner, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
• Timings: Open 24 hours

Suggested Read : Visit Chokhi Dhani, Sonipat To See The Best Of Rajasthani Culture And Cuisine!

6. Bikaji Ki Tekri: The Oldest Structure

• Location : Hammalon Ki Bari, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
• Entry fee: Free entry
• Timings : 11 am – 5 pm
• Required Time : 2-3 hours

Suggested Read : 6 Hotels Near Udaipur That’ll Ensure A Wonderful Stay In Rajasthan

7. Sadul Singh Museum: Witness The History

This one of a kind museum is dedicated to the Maharajas of Bikaner – Maharaja Ganga Singh, Maharaja Karni Singh and Maharaja Sadul Singh. This museum is a home to some of the famous collections of artefacts which were related to the kings. All these possessions includes paintings, trophies, weapons and photographs which one can visit and see. This is one of the best place to enjoy a view of the heroic things the Maharajas have did during their reign.

• Location : Samta Nagar, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
• Entry fee : INR 10
• Timings: 10 am – 5 pm

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8. Prachina Museum: See The Artworks

The Prachina Museum came into existence around the year of 2000 which was built by the daughter of Maharaja Narendra Singhji – Siddhi Kumari. This museum has some of the amazing collections of royal apparel, accessories, perfumes, textiles, artwork and unique class artefacts which includes the portraits of the Maharajas. This museum gives a sneak peek to the rich lifestyle and age-old culture of royals of Bikaner.

• Location : Junagarh Fort, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
• Timings: 9 am – 6 pm
• Entry Fee: Indian Nationals (INR 10), Foreign Nationals (INR 25) Students and Children (INR 5)

Suggested Read : Top 15 Places To Visit In Bundi That Will Take You Back To The Golden Days Of Rajasthan

9. Ganga Singh Museum: Explore The Historical Artwork

The Ganga Singh Museum is another attraction which is considered one of the best tourist places in Bikaner. This place is famous for holding the belongings of the Harappan Civilisation and Gupta Dynasty. The museum is quite popular among the people who are inclined towards the history and archaeological buffs. Alongside that there are some of the amazing works of pottery, paintings, terracotta artwork which will give a peek to the Indian heritage.

• Location : Rani Bazar, Shardul Colony, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334201
• Timings: 10 am – 4:30 pm (closed on Friday)
• Entry Fee: INR 5

Temples: 6 Religious Places To Visit In Bikaner

A visit to Bikaner is incomplete without paying a visit to these top religious places. Get more knowledge about the top temples here along with their locations.

10. Jain Temple Bhandasar: Red And White Wonder

The Bhandasar Jain Temple is dedicated to Sumatinath, the fifth Tirthankara of Jainism. The beauty of this temple will leave you awestruck with its unique Rajputana architecture and intricate design. The blend of red sandstone and white marble, alongside the mesmerizing gold layer finishing, is what makes it one of the religious tourist places in Bikaner. The grandeur of this three-story temple is admirable and this should be on every traveler’s list. This is also surrounded by some of the best places to visit in Rajasthan.

• Location: Old Bikaner, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
• Opening days: Open all days of the week; 5 am – 1 pm and 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Suggested Read: 10 Best Things To Do In Bikaner That Will Make Your Rajasthan Holiday One-Of-Its-Kind!

Planning your holiday in Rajasthan but confused about what to do? These Rajasthan travel stories help you find your best trip ever!

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Enjoy the rich past, culture, & picturesque palaces!

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To catch the tigers and Sambar deer in their full glory!

11. Shri Laxminath Temple: One Of The Oldest Temples In Bikaner

The famous temple dedicated to the sanctum of Goddess Laxmi and Lord Vishnu, Shri Laxminath temple is one of the oldest temples in Bikaner. What makes this temple stand apart is the intricate silver artwork and beautiful idols of various deities. The best time to visit is during the festive season as Shri Laxminath temple is famous for the celebration of Hindu festivals such as Diwali, Janmashtami, and Ramnavmi.

• Location: Vaidya Mangaram Colony, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334004
• Opening days: Open all days of the week; 5 am – 1 pm and 5 pm – 11 pm

Suggested Read : 10 Haunted Places In Rajasthan That Will Scare The Daylights Out Of You

12. Shiv Bari Temple: Home To Miniature Idols

An architectural wonder, Shiv Bari temple is built completely of red sandstone. The temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is one of the best places to see in Bikaner. The major attraction of this temple is the miniature idols that beautifully showcases the culture of Bikaner. The serene and calm environment around the temple adds to the aura of this grand temple.

• Location: Shivbari Rd, Shivbari, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334003
• Opening days: Open all days of the week; 7 am – 7 pm

Suggested Read: Best Hotels In Bikaner That Will Leave An Indelible Mark On Your Desert Vacation

13. Karni Mata Temple: Where The Rats Are Worshiped

One of the unique places to visit in Bikaner, the Karni Mata Temple is dedicated to Karni Mata, an incarnation of goddess Durga. The temple is believed to be the abode of over 20,000 rats. The visitors worship these rats and offer prasad to them for they are believed to be the sons of Karni Mata. The silver gate and intricate marble carvings of the temple add to its charm.

• Location: NH89, Deshnok, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334801
• Opening days: Open all days of the week; 5 am – 10 pm

Suggested Read : 10 Churches In Rajasthan That Take You Beyond Forts And Mahals

14. Kodamdesar Temple: Rao Bikaji’s Creation

The founder of Bikaner city, Rao Bikaji, built an ancient building named as Kodamdesar Temple. The temple is one of the most religious spots for the locals of Bikaner. You will be surprised to find no proper doors and asymmetrical shape of the building, unlike typical temples. The temple resides the idol of Lord Bhairon who is one of the many forms of Lord Shiva. Local craftsmen come to take blessings in this temple during the Bhadrapad fair. This place is also surrounded by some of the best places to visit in Rajasthan in summer .

• Location: Kodamdesar Village, Kodamdesar, Rajasthan 334305
• Timings: 5 am – 9 pm
• Required Time : 1-2 hours

Suggested Read: Honeymoon In Rajasthan: 6 Things To Do And Attractions For Couple

15. Ratan Bihari Temple: A Symbol Of Love

• Location : KEM Rd, Chaukhunti Mohalla, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
• Timings : Open all days

Other Bikaner Tourist Places

Bikaner is full of tourist places apart from forts, museums, and temples. You can shop your heart out here or indulge in offbeat activities. Let’s take a close look at these places!

16. Kote Gate: Shopper’s Paradise

Standing tall like a guardian to the city, Kote Gate is the main entrance to the city and separates the new city from the old city of Bikaner. This site is an amalgamation of ancient forts and monuments and new urban civilization. The major attraction of this place is local shopping. One can find a variety of goods in this market – handicrafts, traditional clothes, utensils, artifacts made of Camel hide, or traditional open toed shoes. Apart from shopping, this place will also excite you with its abundant eating joints. This place is also surrounded by some of the best shopping places in Bikaner .

• Location: Kote Gate, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
• Required Time : 1 hour

Suggested Read : 5 Star Hotels In Rajasthan: Pick One Of These And Say Yes To A Royal Staycation!

17. Thar Desert: Bikaner Camel Safari Day Tours

Explore the wilderness in the middle of the desert, and witness the mesmerizing beauty of the sand ocean at the Thar Desert. Camel Safari is a must-try for every traveler visiting Bikaner. With the top-notch facilities provided by the organizers, you get to experience nature in its crude form.

• Location: Opposite Gopeshwar Temple, Gangashahar, Bikaner, 334001, Rajasthan
• Things to do : Go on a camel safari

Suggested Read: 5 Resorts In Bikaner That Will Let You Experience The True Charm Of Rajasthan’s Culture!

18. National Research Centre On Camel: Must Visit Once

This centre is a breeding nursery of camels that is home to more than 230 camels now of three different breeds. A trip to this place will give you knowledge about the facilities and techniques used in the centre. You can also taste some samples of milk or lassis the on-site milk outlet. Apart from this, one can go through the small museum and opt for a camel ride at this centre that must be visited at least once in a lifetime.

• Location: Jodhpur Bypass, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334022
• Timings: 12 pm – 6 pm

Suggested Read : 14 Best Weekend Getaways From Ajmer To Experience The Culture And Opulence Of Rajasthan!

19. Devi Kund Sagar: Explore Royal Cenotaphs

Devi Kund Sagar is one of the top ancient places to explore in the city of Bikaner. This place forms an important site for the history of Bikaner as the ruling family members of Bikaner is cremated here including Rao Bikaji, the founder of the city.

• Location: Sharah Kajani, Rajasthan 334001
• Things to do : Pay homage to the families

Suggested Read: 20 Things To Do In Rajasthan That Make It The Ultimate Vacation Destination!

20. Sursagar Lake: Paddle In The Water

Initially, Sursagar Lake was constructed by one of the Kings in Bikaner for drinking facility in the city. But with time, the water got tainted and unsuitable for consumption. This made the place a sightseeing spot in Bikaner and later boating facility was added to lure more tourists to this attraction.

• Location: Transport Nagar, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
• Things to do : Go for boating in the lake
• Required time : 2-3 hours

Suggested Read : Budget Trip to Rajasthan: 10 Reasons To Enjoy The Royal State At Its Best!

21. Kolayat: Surreal And Peaceful

Kolayat is a beautiful and quaint little town which is famous for the Kapil Muni Fair which is termed as the largest fair in the city. Known for the sacred water of the Kolayat lake and the divine Kolayat Temple, this place is considered one of the top offbeat places to visit in Bikaner. Quite a famous pilgrimage, the legends of this place explains that Kapil Muni halted here and meditated to bring peace and harmony when he was passing by.

• Timings: 24 Hours
• Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
• Required Time : 4-5 hours

Suggested Read : 12 Wildlife Sanctuaries In Rajasthan To Spend A Day Amidst The Wildlife!

22. Station Road: Buy Local Handicrafts

• Location : Station Rd, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
• Timings : 10 am – 9 pm

Suggested Read : 6 Cozy Hotels Near Nathdwara For A Comfortable Stay On Your Next Rajasthan Trip!

23. MG Road: Your Shopping Market

• Location : Mahatma Gandhi Rd, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
• Timings : 10 am – 10 pm
• Required Time : 1-2 hour

Suggested Read : 8 Best 4 Star Hotels In Rajasthan That Aim To Provide You An Unforgettable Experience!

24. Skybird Water Park: For Endless Entertainment

• Location : Behind Petrol Pump, Nal Village, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
• Timings : 9 am – 8 pm, open all days
• Entry Fees : INR 200
• Things to do : Dive into the rides, grab a bite from the eateries and have lots of fun
• Required Time : 5-6 hours

Suggested Read : Visit These Temples In Jaipur & Delve Into The Spiritual Charm Of Rajasthan

25. Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary: Witness Some Wildlife

Another of the famous places to visit in Bikaner is the Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary, a former hunting ground for the Maharajas of Bikaner. It is one of the popular wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan with a small lake built inside. If you are lucky enough, you can spot some rare animals quench their thirst in the lake. You can spot a lot of deers, antelopes, the famous Nilgai and desert foxes. 

• Location : Gajner, Rajasthan 334302
• Timings : 10 am to 5 pm
• Required time : 5-6 hours
• Things to do : Go for a safari, nature photography

Suggested Read : Jaisalmer Travel Tips: Take Down These Points To Enjoy The Best Of Your Rajasthan Trip!

26. Fun World Waterpark: Have Some Fun

Fun World Waterpark is a beautiful amusement park that can be visited with friends as well as family. Although small in size, it can cater to children, especially. So, you must visit this place if you are visiting with family. There are a few rides, swings and the environment is like a fair almost every evening. Have some amazing local food once you are done with having all the fun.

• Location : Jaisalmer Rd, Nal, Rajasthan 334006
• Timings : 9 am to 8 pm; 12 pm to 9:30 pm (Sunday); Saturday closed
• Things to do : Have fun at the rides and eat some street food

Suggested Read : Rajasthan Travel Tips: 10 Useful Things One Must Remember Before Visiting The State!

27. Khimsar: An Oasis In The Desert

If you want to get acquainted with some amazing spectacles of the Thar Desert, then visit Khimsar. It is a tiny hamlet which has a water body at the center of the village that serves as an oasis. The region was once ruled by the Thakurs and now a fort and heritage hotel serves as the prime source of tourism. For an offbeat experience, visit this hamlet. It is also one of the best villages in Rajasthan that reflects the traditional culture.

• Location : Rajasthan 341025
• Required time : 2-3 days

28. Nagur: An Offbeat Paradise

Founded by the Naga Kshatriyas, this is one of the most historic cities in Rajasthan and perfect for going back in time to learn about the civilizations that ruled over the region. It is the headquarter of Nagaur district and can be easily reached from both Bikaner and Udaipur.

• Location : Marwar region
• Required time : 1-2 days

29. Khichan: Offroad Adventure

Nestled near the Phalodi tehsil of Jodhpur, Khichan is a hidden gem that travellers tend to miss on their itinerary for Rajasthan. This place is perfect for a day break from the hustle and bustle of the city and an escape into the extraordinary lifestyle of community living practiced in the local region.

• Location : Rajasthan 342308

30. Phalodi: For The Architecture

A scenic town in the Jodhpur district, Phalodi is a detour that you must take on your trip to Rajasthan. Come here for the old caravan center and leave for the Thar desert safaris from here as you rest in medical stays and enjoy traditional food.

• Location : Rajasthan 342301

31. Shekhawati: Step Back In History

Nestled in the northeast part of Rajasthan, Shekhawati offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, ancient temples, and caves, along with the family-like vibe of the Marwari community. Make yourself at home at one of their home-styled restaurants, wander around to learn more about authentic living in these parts, and learn about the indigenous cultures.

• Location : Rajasthan 332301

32. Sikar: Explore Art And Culture

Nestled in the central region between Rajasthan and Agra, Sikar is an offbeat destination part of the Sikhawanti destination most popular for its countryside tourism and culture. The grand Havelis and forts here showcase grand architectural detailing that you can enjoy with a historic tour.

Suggested Read : 10 Magnificent Places To Visit In Summer In Rajasthan For A Royal Vacay!

How To Reach Bikaner

By Air:  There are no airports in Bikaner. The nearest airport, Jodhpur Airport, is located 250 km from Bikaner.

By Rail:  Regular trains ply between Bikaner and other major cities. Lalgarh Junction (2.6 km from Bikaner) and Jodhpur Junction (1.4 km from Bikaner) are the nearest railway stations.

• Distance from Jodhpur: 250 km (4 hours 45 minutes)
• Distance from Jaipur: 334 km (5 hours)
• Distance from Delhi: 446 km (8 hours)

Further Read: Camping In Rajasthan: Top 11 Spots That Are A Must-Visit For All Adventure Enthusiasts

Are you mesmerized just by the pictures of these places? Want to click your own pictures? Then wait no more, pack your bags and book a trip to Bikaner . Do not forget to explore these places to visit in Bikaner and create new memories. Do share your amazing experience with us! For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click  here . 

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Bikaner

What are the top sightseeing places in Bikaner?

Some of the best places to visit in Bikaner include Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, Laxmi Niwas Palace, Gajner Palace & Wildlife Sanctuary, Rampuria Haveli, Bikaji Ki Tekri, Sadul Singh Museum, Prachina Museum, and Ganga Singh Museum.

Which thing is famous in Bikaner?

Bikaner is famous for its handicrafts, leather products and intricately carved jharokhas. Besides this, the destination is also renowned for having the biggest camel farm in Asia.

Is it safe to visit Bikaner, given the covid situation?

Yes, it is safe to visit Bikaner given that you follow all guidelines and take all the necessary precautions. Make sure to get yourself vaccinated before planning a trip, also wear masks at all times, maintain social distance at public places and sanitize your hands regularly to avoid the spread of the virus.

How many days are enough for Bikaner?

To witness the best of Bikaner, you need at least 4-5 days. During your vacation, you can cover all the major sightseeing points and attractions. Besides this, you will get ample time to relax as well.

What is the best time to visit Bikaner?

October to March is the best time to visit Bikaner. The summer season in Bikaner starts in the month of March and lasts till June and is not a suitable time to visit the destination as the weather is quite hot and dry during these months.

What should I buy in Bikaner?

There are numerous things that you can buy in this city of Rajasthan, including mojaris made from camel leather, nokha razai, churan, sarees, bangles, Bikaner bhujia, etc.

How can I reach Bikaner?

The airport located closest to the city of Bikaner is in Jodhpur, which is approximately 251 kilometres away. A bus or a taxi can easily help you reach Bikaner from this airport. The Bikaner Junction railway station is well connected with various cities and towns around. Buses from cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Udaipur, Ajmer, Agra, and more are also available.

How can I reach Bikaner from Delhi?

Located at a distance of 475 kilometres from Delhi, the city of Bikaner can be reached from here via a Volvo bus or train. You can even call a cab to reach this city of Rajasthan from Delhi.

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Tourist places near Bikaner Rajasthan

Rao Bika Ji, a Rajput prince established Bikaner in 1488 AD. Bikaner can blow your mind with the beauty of historical places. From Havelis, places, temples, and museums of a Rajput empire to the beautiful natural lake, the list of tourist places to visit in Bikaner and things to see in Bikaner is big.

The entire district is ornamented with the most elegant examples of Rajput culture, most of which are now popular tourist attractions and the  best places to visit in Rajasthan .

Places to visit in Bikaner and things to see in Bikaner

Junagarh fort.

Bikaner has so many tourist places, but the one that you should be on top of the list of top things to do in Bikaner and need your special attention is Junagarh Fort.

In 1588 AD, Raja Rai Singh constructed the Junagarh Fort. It is in the middle of the Thar Desert stretched to an area of approximately 5.28 hectares. To keep the enemies away, the fort has 986 meters long wall with 37 bastions, which is surrounded by a moat. No one could ever capture the Junagarh Fort.

There are magnificent palaces constructed in red sandstone and marble inside the fort complex including Karan Mahal, Phool Mahal, Anup Mahal, and Chandra Mahal.

Gajner Palace

In 1784, Maharaja Gaj Singh started the construction of the Gajner Palace, and Maharaja Ganga Singh completed the construction. It is an excellent treasure of the Thar desert. On the banks of Gajner Lake, the royal family constructed the palace to hunt and relax and serve as a guest house. Stretched over an area of approximately 6000 acres, the palace is built of red stone and is an example of brilliant architecture.

Now, being covered with thick forest and a lush green lawn, it is a place to see migratory birds. The palace is now converted to a hotel.

Laxmi Niwas Palace

Between 1898 and 1902, British architect Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob built the palace and was the residence of Maharaja Ganga Singh. Now converted to a luxury hotel, the palace is an Indo-Saracenic architecture.

The Royal Cenotaphs or Devi Kund

8 kilometers from Bikaner is the imperial crematorium. It has a few flawless chhatris (cenotaphs), each devoted to the memory of a leader of the Bikaji line and arranged on the specific spot where every one of them was incinerated. The chhatri of Maharaj Surat Singh is a fine case of the design of that period. Devi Kund likewise has cenotaphs of 22 female individuals from the imperial family preceding Maharaja Gaj Sigh Ji, who submitted Sati. There is additionally one cenotaph of a Sata (male Sati) of a ruler. Maharaja Surat Singh’s Chhatri is fabricated altogether in white marble with tremendous Rajput canvases on its roof.

Considered as perhaps the best case of Rajasthani craftsmanship and design, Devi Kund pulls in an enormous number of travelers consistently. It is an incineration ground of the regal group of Bikaner. Different cenotaphs in the memory of rulers and sovereigns are worked here. The most punctual cenotaph is of Rao Kalyanmal, the leader of Bikaner from 1542-71 A.D. furthermore, the last cenotaph is of Maharaja Karni Singh (1950-88A.D). This radiant spot depends on 16 columns and bears desiring portraying demonstrations of Lord Krishna, botanical examples, peacocks, and so forth.

Prachina Museum

Prachina Museum is the social focus of Bikaner. In 2000, Siddhi Kumar who is the daughter of Late Maharaja Narendra Singhji of Bikaner, settled the museum inside the peaceful corner of Junagarh Fort. The museum presents royal costumes, textiles, and accessories of Rajasthani royalty. It also shows the European wine glasses, well-crafted decorative objects created by pieces of glasses, cutlery, and crockery utilized in the royal kitchen. Fragrances and other intriguing things that were an indispensable portion of the Royal family unit are there to captivate you as you investigate areas of the gallery. Various delightfully created mats and covers allow the guests to encounter the imaginative wealth of India.

The royal family portraits hanged on the walls of the museum tell us a story that our culture has changed a lot with time and affected the style of the previous rulers.

Deshnoke Karni Mata Temple

Karni Mata temple is located at Deshnoke; a small town at a distance of 30 km away from Bikaner city in Rajasthan. There are around 20,000 rats living and worshiped inside the temple, because of this reason this temple is famous as the temple of rats. The rats or the Kabas are deemed divine and roams freely inside the temple.

Read more about the legends of Karni Mata Temple Bikaner .

Jain Temple Bhandasar

Built-in the 15th century, the Jain temple of Bhandasar is considered one of the oldest temples and places to visit in Bikaner. The temple is dedicated to Sumatinathji, who is the 5th Tirthankar. It is constructed with red sandstone and decorated with the beautiful work of mirrors, paintings, and leaf paintings of gold. Devotees visit the temple from all across the country and tourists from all across the globe visit to see the beauty of the temple. It is believed that when constructing the temple, instead of mortar ghee was used and people here have seen it seeping through the walls on hot summer days.

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Top 20 best places to visit in bikaner, the royal & regal city in rajasthan.

When it comes to Bikaner, we often understand it as one the royal and regal places of Rajasthan , which it surely is. With its name, it has also earned recognition for the famous Bikaneri Bhujia enjoyed all over the country with love. But, for getting a better understanding of the city, we need to understand about the best places to visit and explore in and around the city. Bikaner in Rajasthan lies in the heart of the vast, golden, Thar Desert. Established in 1488, Bikaner was established by the Rathore King, Rao Bika, who gave rise to the beautiful city. Bikaner exhibits a rich history of Rajputs and has numerous havelis, palaces, temples and museums that offer a pleasing picture of a bygone era. In Bikaner, one can go back in history and can experience the rich culture and hospitality that melts hearts.

Here are some of the places that you must see in Bikaner to learn about this fabulous city:

Junagarh Fort

Gajner Palace

Karni Mata Temple

National Research Centre on Camel

Sand Dunes Safari

Rampuria Haveli

Bhandasar Jain Temple

The Royal Cenotaphs

• Lalgarh Palace and Museum

Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary

Shiv Bari Temple

Kodamdesar Temple

Shri Laxminath Temple

Prachina Museum

Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum

Shri Sadul Museum

Urmul Desert Crafts Store

Popular Rajasthan Tour Packages

• Best of Rajasthan Tour
• Forts & Palaces Tour of Rajasthan
• Rajasthan Desert Tour
• Romantic Rajasthan Tour

Junagarh Fort is one of the popular tourist attractions in Bikaner. The fort was built in 1478 by Maharaja Rao Bika, the founder of Bikaner, a later construction by Raja Rai Singh, who ruled Bikaner between 1571 and 1611, and Karan Singh who ruled between 1631 and 1639. The rulers after them also contributed to the beautification of the fort and added their own touch to it, with the present day fort an effort by a total of 16 generations of rulers. Junagarh fort complex consists of many temples and palaces made in the traditional architecture style of the times, making it one of the top 5 tourist places of Bikaner.

The artistically done balconies, courtyards, and windows do not miss to catch the eyes of the visitors. The Zenana quarters in particular, capture the attention of tourists as they exhibit exquisite designs of great artistic skill. Intricate mirror work, colorful frescoes and beautiful lacquer work all make this fort look an attractive sight to behold. One of the more lavish forts to explore in Rajasthan, the Junagarh Fort has been built at a lower elevation than other forts in the state, built to showcase Bikaner’s richness rather than for defense. Mainly featuring a style of Indo-Mughal architecture, the fort has been built using red sandstone brought over from Jaisalmer. Made up of numerous beautiful palaces, some of the popular palaces to explore at Junagarh Fort include the Badal Mahal, Gaj Mandir Palace, Phool Mahal, the Anup Mahal, the Hawa Mahal, and the Vikram Vilas Palace.

Now functioning as a heritage hotel, Gajner Palace in Bikaner was once the royal residence of Maharaja Sir Ganga Singh of Bikaner. The palace is situated about 20 kms from the city of Bikaner and is set along the beautiful Gajner Lake, forming one of the best places to visit in Bikaner. Since it is a heritage hotel, you now have the option to enjoy Bikaner’s grand hospitality by booking a room here and feeling like a royal yourself, or, you can always choose to take a day trip to explore the palace here. Gajner Palace is divided into different sections such as the Dungar Niwas, Mandir Chowk, Gulab Niwas and Champa Niwas. Each wing is meticulously designed and equally well-maintained.

The distinctive design of the terraces, artistic balconies and the chic interiors make the palace a popular tourist attraction and put it among the top 5 places to visit in Bikaner. Covering an area of 6,000 acres, the Gajner Palace was originally built by the Maharaja as his summer house, which later became a hunting lodge even for the Britishers, and today, has an abundance of wildlife such as the Nilgai, Black Buck, and the Chinkara. Made using red sandstone, the palace displays a mix of the architectural styles of Rajasthani, Mughal, and European architecture. Given its proximity to the Thar Desert, there are desert safaris offered near the place along with other activities such as nature walks, and boating. Converted into a heritage hotel in 1976, Gajner Palace in Bikaner is one of the must visit places of the city.

Also Read: Heritage Tourism in Rajasthan

Bikaner’s Karni Mata Temple can be counted among one of the more unique temples in the world, and forms the top 5 tourist places to visit in BIkaner. Karni Mata Temple is probably one of the most famous places to visit in not only Bikaner, but also in Rajasthan. This temple is known for its sizable population of rats that are the permanent residents here. Dating back to the 15th century, this temple is dedicated to Karni Mata who is worshiped as an incarnation of Goddess Durga. Legend has it that when Karni Mata’s son died, she requested Lord Yama to restore her son’s life, but he refused. Karni Mata being the incarnation of Goddess restored the life of her son and declared that from now onwards her family will not face death but be reincarnated in the form of rats.

Today, there are about 20,000 rats that live in the temple premises and attract the attention of many travelers. Even though there are many rats that run across the temple at all times, it is considered highly auspicious if any rat steps on your feet, even better if it’s a white one! Held in high reverence by the devotees, the rats at the Karni Mata Temple in Bikaner are even fed by the pilgrims visiting the temple. One of the best times to visit the temple is during the Karni Mata Festival, held twice a year, usually during the festivities of Navratri. The festival worships Karni Mata and attracts a number of devotees to the temple.

Also Read: Popular Temples in Rajasthan

Now, this is one place in Bikaner, in fact in the entire Rajasthan, which must be visited at least once. The National Research Centre on Camels is one of the more fascinating places to visit in Bikaner. Functioning mainly as a breeding and research farm, the research center has many camels and have been categorized into five different breeds.  The center is situated about 8 kms from Bikaner and is open for visitors who wish to learn more about the animal themselves. The center also has a small museum that displays the history, development and the research findings related to the camels of the region.

Along with this visitor can also experience camel rides and safaris at the research center, where they can view the many species of camels found in the region. The camel breeds that can be seen at the research center include the Bikaneri Camel, Jaisalmeri Camel, Kachchhi Camel, Mewari Camel, and the Jalori Camel. With an abundance of camels, the research center also has its own milk parlor that serves beverages and eatables made using camel milk, and includes a variety of ice creams, and hot and cold beverages. The research center is spread over an area of 2,000 acres and is also helpful for the local camel rearers who can utilize the findings for the betterment of their own camels.

Also Read: Popular Festivals in Rajasthan

Taking up a desert safari is one of the best things to do when exploring Bikaner. Given its close proximity to the Thar Desert, Bikaner offers a chance for tourists to opt for a desert safari among its sand dunes. A desert safari at Bikaner usually would include exploring the sandy expanse of the Thar with a camel ride, or staying in one of the camps within the desert. Staying at a desert camp will let you experience the local culture, traditions and lifestyle, much more closely. On a desert safari experience, you might even get a chance to spot the wildlife of the desert land, such as antelope, fox, jackal, rabbit, nilgai, desert cat, chameleon, and the monitor lizard, among others. The safari will give an insight into the lives of the people who rely on the desert and its resources to earn a living, allowing you to explore some of the more remote villages of the region on your visit.

Desert Safari forms one of the more fun aspects of Bikaner Tourism and is something that is among its popular tourist attractions. Depending on your needs and budget, you can choose to spend a few hours in the desert or choose to stay in one of the camps and spend your night surrounded by the Thar Desert and witness the traditional folk dance and music that is available. A Sand Dune Safari is surely the best way to explore the vast desert but is also the perfect way to mark the end of your day by viewing a magical sunset among the golden sands of the desert. Depending upon the duration of the safari, one can see several destinations like Raisar, Khichan, Balakaya Dhora and Phalodi.

Offering the best of Rajputana architecture, Rampuria Haveli is amongst the best places to visit in Bikaner. In fact, Rampuria is a group of 9 Havelis that were constructed in the 15th century by the Rampuria family of merchants. The havelis are made of Dulmera red sand stone and display exquisite artistic skills. The opulent interior adorned with tasteful artifacts, golden paintings and woodwork are the major attractions of this magnificent structure. One of the popular tourist attractions of Bikaner, one of the Havelis of the Rampuria Haveli now functions as a heritage hotel, where the visitors can even stay and experience living amidst a royal setting. Hotel Bhanwar Niwas is the haveli-turned-hotel of the Haveli and is run by the Rampuria family.

A beautiful structure in Bikaner, Rampuria Haveli displays a blend of Mughal, Victorian, and Rajput elements of architecture. The Haveli, today, is one of the most popular points of interest in the city and is also among the most photographed tourist attractions of Bikaner. A visit to Rampuria Haveli in itself is a treat to the eyes, with it being adorned in numerous intricate carvings all over, showcasing the best of the local artisans of the time, who seemed to have poured their all when creating this architectural masterpiece in Rajasthan’s Bikaner. Located in the heart of the city, the Rampuria Haveli will take you back in time and lead you a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy merchants of Bikaner, who once commissioned the grand building, now standing as one of the prideful structures of the city of Bikaner.

Bhandasar Jain Temple is one of the two most famous Jain shrines in Rajasthan’s Bikaner. Dedicated to the 5th Jain Tirthankara Sumatinath, it is a three-storied shrine that dates back to the 15th century with the temple’s construction finally completed in the early 16th century, it is one of the best places to explore in Bikaner. In the temple’s ground floor, you can see a marble statue dedicated to Tirthankara Sumatinath situated on top of a silver throne, alongside sandstone pillars, all carved with numerous intricate sculptures. The temple is an epitome of Rajputana architecture and has marble pillars, gold leaf walls, intricately decorated ceilings and massive halls. The exquisite mirror work grabs special attention of the visitors here, making it a popular tourist attraction. The many frescoes that adorn the temple also tell the stories of the 24 Jain Tirthankaras, further adding to the beauty of the temple.

Apart from its architecture the utter silence and peace in the ambience of the temple is what makes it a great place to visit, where you can spend hours marveling at its architecture and its tranquil environment. The temple is also among the most unique temples that exist in Bikaner. Built by a rich merchant named Bhandasa Oswal, the Bhandasar Jain Temple is said to have been made using 40,000 kgs of ghee instead of water as mortar during its construction. Upholding the Jain beliefs and customs, items made using leather such as shoes, belts, bags, and watches, are to be removed strictly before entering the temple.

Situated about 8 kms east of Bikaner is Devi Kund Sagar, the cremation ground of Bikaner’s royal family, and is one of the destinations you must visit on your tour of Bikaner Tourism. Here stands the Royal Cenotaphs that were built in memory of members of the royal family and are among the list of top 10 places to visit in Bikaner. It should be remembered that cenotaphs were an important part of the Rajputana as well as Mughal architecture, but at Devi Kund Sagar, there are two separate groups of cenotaphs that display the architectural exuberance of the Rajputs. Here, some cenotaphs, dedicated to early rulers are made of Dulmera red sandstone and some, dedicated to the later rulers are made of marble.

The cenotaphs are dedicated to different members of the royal family, such as men, women, and children, and can be differentiated on the basis of their architecture. The cenotaphs for men have a vertical slab, the ones dedicated to women have foot marks on the memorial slab, and those dedicated to children have a simpler structure, and stand without a canopy. The major attraction here is the cenotaph built for Maharaja Anup Singh, who ruled Bikaner from 1669 to 1698, built on 16 pillars and has various intricately carved peacocks, birds, animals, as well as stories related to acts of Lord Krishna.  The earliest cenotaph at Devi Kund Sagar belongs to Rao Kalyanmal, who ruled Bikaner from 1541 to 1571, with the latest one belonging to Maharaja Karni Singh who ruled the city from 1950 to 1988. A visit to the Royal Cenotaphs of Bikaner at Devi Kund Sagar will let you understand better about the many rulers of the city, and give you a glimpse into the architecture, rites, rituals, and culture of the royals.

Lallgarh Palace and Museum

Another popular point of interest in the city is its architectural delight of the Lallgarh Palace . This beautiful palace was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in the early 20th century and is a pride of Bikaner. With its construction beginning in the late 19th century, the palace has been designed by a British architect, Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob. The palace has now been converted into a hotel and therefore makes for an ideal place to spend your holidays as you continue exploring Bikaner. The rich Rajputana architecture mixed with a style of Mughal and British architecture, along with the tasteful interior that adorns the palace-turned-hotel attracts visitors here, making it one of the top places to visit in Bikaner. The indoor swimming pool is also a very pleasant site to spend your time in the palace.

Bikaner’s Lallgarh Palace also consists of a museum that is situated inside Ganga Niwas, and is named the Shri Sadul Museum. Here one can see the miniature paintings related to Bikaner School of Art, terracotta wares and royal armors. There is also a library that has a good collection of many Sanskrit manuscripts, written on parchments, plaques of silver, copper and gold. The artifacts belonging to Harappan civilization and Kushan and Gupta Age that are well preserved at the museum are also something that can be explored during your visit. Made using red sandstone, a stay at the palace hotel will surely make you feel like a royalty. With top notch hospitality by the hotel staff, and the traditional architecture of the palace, staying at the Lallgarh Palace is something that you must explore on your visit to Bikaner.

About 32 kms from Bikaner, Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the top sightseeing places and is an ideal place for wildlife adventure near Bikaner. The sanctuary is among the popular wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan, and is located along the Gajner Lake , close to the Gajner Palace. This sanctuary, which was once the hunting ground of the Maharaja Ganga Singh and the royal family, today has been developed as a wildlife reserve that shelters the rich flora and fauna of the region. Hunting was an important activity for the royals which they partook in with much enthusiasm, often displaying their hunt as trophies for visitors to see and understood the practice of hunting as a sport to create better relations with different kingdoms in the past.

It shelters many species of animals like Chinkara, Black Buck, Wild Boar, Nilgai, Antelope, and the Desert Fox, along with a sizable population of birds like the Sandgrouse, often found in desert-like regions, Indian Houbara Bustards, Water fouls, Demoiselle Cranes, among other local and migratory birds. Taking a safari within the wildlife sanctuary is a great idea for wildlife buffs, letting the visitors better explore the sanctuary while also giving the bird watchers a good chance to spot birds of different species here. Exploring the Gajner Palace in Bikaner is one of the top destinations to visit in the city, and is often coupled with a visit to the Gajner Palace and the Gajner Lake.

Separating old Bikaner from new Bikaner, Kote Gate is an important landmark of the city, and among the best places to explore in the city. Boasting of architectural grandeur, Kote Gate is in fact the first thing that you notice when you enter Bikaner. On one side of the gate are the exquisitely constructed Rajputana Havelis and on the other side is a colorful bazaar, which can be a paradise for any shopaholic.

Once you are done marveling at the splendor of the architecture of Kote Gate, you can visit the market that sells items made of camel hide, open-toed shoes, miniature paintings, utensils, handicrafts, and Khadi items like kurtas and wooden items. One can also enjoy indulging in the local Bikaneri sweets, Bikaneri bhujia and tea made from camel’s milk here in the bazaar. One of the most lively and loud markets in Bikaner, Kote Gate is a destination that you must visit on your visit to the city. Here, you can explore the local handicrafts of Rajasthan’s Bikaner and take some fascinating artifacts as souvenirs for yourself back home.

Amongst the most popular places of interest for tourists in Bikaner is the Shiv Bari Temple . This shrine holds great religious importance and is also one of the finest examples of Rajputana architecture in Bikaner. The temple is situated about 6 kms from the city and was built by Maharaja Doongar Singhji in 1880, who got it made in honor of his father, Maharaja Lal Singh, leading the temple to be called as Laleshwar Mahadev as well, lovingly by the locals.

The temple worships Lord Shiva, of whom a huge black stone idol, along with the artistically done pavilions, columns and domes, all made of red sandstone, is the major attraction here and attract a number of devotees and tourists alike to the temple each year. The Shiv Bari Temple contains the idol of Lord Shiva as a four-faced one, along with a bronze statue of his carrier bull, Nandi. Along the temple complex, one can also see various beautifully carved statues of Lord Krishna, surrounded by his gopis as well, further adding a charm to the beauty of the Shiv temple. Although the temple sees crowds of devotees throughout the year, it is especially during the Hindu calendar month of Shravana, that the temple sees the most crowd, with people gathering to visit the temple from across the country.

The Kodamdesar Temple is situated in the Kodamdesar village of Bikaner and is one of the top sightseeing places to visit in Bikaner. This temple is one of its kind, as unlike other temples, the Kodamdesar Temple does not have a proper temple structure. The shrine is basically a statue that presides over a marble platform, where there is no hall, door or even a roof covering the temple. Dedicated to the worship of Lord Bhairon Ji, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, the temple was built by Rao Bika Ji, the founder and the first ruler of Bikaner, in 1465, as soon as he arrived from Jodhpur to establish his own dynasty.

Within the premises of the temple, you can see a number of dogs that roam freely, which is noticeable due to dogs being considered the carrier animal of Lord Bhairon Ji. With the temple’s entire floor being made of white marble, Kodamdesar Temple in Bikaner is surely one of the top destinations in the city, also due to its beauty. The best time to visit this temple is during the Bhadrapad Fair, when artisans and craftsmen from all over the state come to visit this temple. Kodamdesar Temple is most often visited by the newlywed couples and parents who bring their newborn babies to get their first mundan, or a head-shaving ceremony.

One of the best places to visit in Bikaner, Shri Laxminath Temple is amongst the oldest temples in the city. Built by Maharaja Rao Lunkaran originally, the temple was further developed by Maharaja Ganga Singh, who added to its beauty with elaborate artwork in the temple’s interiors. Shri Laxminath Temple is situated about 4 kms from the Junagarh Fort and is dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu and his consort Goddess Lakshmi, with it being thronged by devotees on occasions like Janmashtami, Nirjala Ekadashi, Ramnavami, Diwali and Geeta Jayanti.

The temple has been constructed as a throne for Lord Laxminath, since the Bikaneri rulers believed Lord Laxminath to be Bikaner’s ruler and considered themselves as his ministers who worked in his service. The temple is made in a mix of red sandstone, brought in from Jaisalmer, and white marble, showcasing a specialty of Bikaner’s architectural style. The mesmerizing artwork, intricately carved architecture, and the silver art on its doorways, is what attracts numerous tourists to the place when visiting Bikaner. Along with the main shrine, within the temple complex, there are different shrines dedicated to Shri Suryanarayanji, Shri Neelkanth Mahadev, Shri Roopchaturbujji, Shri Badrinarayanji, and Shri Magavidyaji, also present. An intricate blend of devotion and architecture, Shri Laxminath Temple in Bikaner is a destination that you must visit on your trip to the city.

Set up in the year 2000, Prachina Museum is situated in Junagarh Fort, and is a place that you must explore on your visit to Bikaner. The Prachina Bikaner Cultural Center and Museum was established by Princess Siddhi Kumari, daughter of Late Maharaja Narendra Singhji of Bikaner in order to preserve the cultural diversity of Bikaner and showcase its rich history. At this museum one can witness the royal costumes and textiles, family portraits of former rulers, religious accessories, aristocratic locomotives, and personal objects of royal men and women, among other artifacts. The museum also gives an insight into the change of cultural milieus from one generation of rulers to another, responses of the royal family to western influences, and the influence of Bikaner’s contemporary arts and crafts till date.

The Prachina Museum is made up of several galleries and has been categorized as the Contemporary Art Gallery that contains arts from the famous Usta artisans of Bikaner, the Ritual Art Gallery that showcases idols of local and clan deities, the Bikaner Period Room, the Aristocratic Textiles and Costume Gallery and the Gallery of Aristocratic Transportation that showcases fancy bullock carts and raths belonging to the royal family, along with rooms that display Bikaner’s traditional floral wall and ceiling paintings. Among the best places to explore in Bikaner, add the Prachina Museum to your list and get a chance to witness the history, and culture of the past generations of the royal family for yourself.

Established by Maharaja Ganga Singh in 1937 on the occasion of completion of 50 years of his rule in Bikaner, Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum is one of the most popular attractions for history buffs in Bikaner. The museum preserves rich artifacts, sculptures, jade studded weapons and portraits of rulers. One can also see the terracotta wares that belonged to the Gupta period and objects of the Indus Valley and Harappan Civilization. The 4 ft. tall monolithic sculpture of Jain Saraswati made out of marble, dating back to the 11th and 12th century, is also on display in the Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum as a rare artifact and is something that you must see on your visit.

Another statue that you must see is the 1-foot tall bronze statue of a “Nartaki”, found in a sand dune in the Sujangarh district of Rajasthan, and dates back to the period between the 10th and 11th centuries. Lacquer work on wood, metal, stones, glass, and leather as well as on ostrich eggs can also be seen here at the museum, making it one of the best places to explore in Bikaner. The museum is run by the government of Rajasthan, and has been divided into various sections for the ease of understanding for its visitors. Things that you must explore on a visit to the Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum include, lithographic prints of the British interpretation of the War of 1857, Dr. L.P. Tessitori Memorial Section, miniature paintings, folk-arts, royal armory, terracotta and bronze sculptures, local arts and crafts, as well as the Maharaja Ganga Singh Memorial.

One of the top places to explore, the Shri Sadul Museum in Bikaner is situated inside the Lalgarh Palace, at a distance of about 2 km northeast of the Junagarh Fort. This museum throws light on the history of the Rathore royal family of Bikaner, where one can see the various belongings and artifacts related to the royal family. At the museum you also have a chance to see Maharaja Sadul Singh’s railway carriage, Maharaja Karni Singh’s golf clubs and hairbrush, as well as the miniature paintings related to Bikaner School of Art. When it comes to the artifacts at the Shri Sadul Museum, you can see on display various historic terracotta wares, along with royal armors.

The museum also has a library containing a great collection of many Sanskrit manuscripts, written on parchments, plaques of silver, copper and gold. The artifacts belonging to Harappan civilization, Kushan and Gupta Age are also well preserved at the museum and are also something that can be explored during your visit to this historic museum in Bikaner. Exploring the museum and viewing its many artifacts will provide you with a chance to understand and learn more about the history, culture, and lifestyle of the royal families, as well as the rich culture of Rajasthan’s Bikaner.

The old city of Bikaner is just the ideal destination for a sightseeing tour. It has a medieval feel with the place being a labyrinth of narrow streets, large number of old havelis, and a few notable Jain temples. The old city still has an 18th century wall with five entrance gates with the main entrance being the famous triple-arched Kothe Gate of Bikaner.

Giving you a glimpse into the past, visiting the old city of Bikaner is one of the best things you can do on your tour, where you can capture the true essence of Bikaner. Given the fact that the city was founded in the 15th century, you can see a lot of buildings and structures in and around the old city that present a remnant of the past, where today, apart from major monuments, you can also find many hole-in-the-wall outlets of clothing and food. One of the monuments that you can explore in Bikaner is the Rampuria Haveli, located in the area of old Bikaner as well.

Run by a local NGO called the Urmul Trust, Urmul Desert Crafts Store is the perfect place to visit for souvenir shopping in Bikaner. Situated 1.4km northeast of Junagarh, at Urmul Desert Crafts Store, you can find blankets, bags, shirts and cushion covers that are produced by village artisans. By purchasing goods here, you can help the Urmul Trust in their mission to promote women’s rights as well as fund women’s colleges and an eye hospital for people living in the desert region.

The craft store recognizes and promotes the crafts of the desert communities and spreads them to a wider marketplace and customers. The handicrafts produced by these communities not only help sustain the families of these artisans but also help to preserve the art and culture of Bikaner, and spread them to a far bigger audience. The initiative aims to not only educate women, but also to empower them to generate a stable source of income for themselves. Since the advent of the movement in 2015, it has seen an increase in the number of artisans who have chosen the movement to support themselves with their knowledge of art and craft, passed down through generations.

Also Read: Bikaner Complete Tourism Attractions Information

Situated in the heart of the Thar Desert, Bikaner has made the desert region home, and imbibed it in its culture and traditions. Contrasting the arid desert, Bikaner is a city that is the most vibrant. With intricate havelis, historic museums, unique temples, handicrafts, and delicious food, Bikaner is a place that will keep you coming back for more. Enjoy a stay at a palace-turned-hotel, go boating in one of its calm lakes, or simply take a walk through its labyrinth of havelis and old buildings, Bikaner has so much to offer. Go explore the magical city of Rajasthan on your next vacation.

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Published: 13 Feb, 2024

About the author

Nidhi Singh

From the Lake District, Nainital, Nidhi Singh is a travel writer whose love for mountains can be seen in her write ups. Talk about solo travelling, indulging in adventure activities, binging on good food, planning budget trips or the Aurora Borealis and you will get all her attention. It is the wanderlust that keeps her going and if at all she could get one wish granted she would love to live a life less ordinary. Follow her on Twitter , Facebook & Instagram .

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Best Places To Visit Near Bikaner - Weekend Getaways

Bikaner— the dry arid land of Maharajas. This city in Rajasthan is known for its hospitality as well as architecture, and beckons you to the palaces and forts that have seen battles more than splendour. All in all, the city is a great tourist destination. But there are many more places around Bikaner that may trump its beauty and grandeur. From Rajput towns to temples, holy lands to bird parks, there is much to explore around Bikaner. If you are idle this weekend and planning to get out then here’s our list of weekend getaways near Bikaner.

You may remember this place from the 1999 Nuclear tests that India successfully conducted and became a Nuclear state. Located 225 km away from Bikaner, Pokhran is a 4 hour drive. The village is also called the place of five mirages as it is surrounded by salt rocks of Thar. From monuments to arid havelis, archeological sites to forts, Pokhran is perfect for the explorer in you. Visit the 14th Century Pokhran Fort, Baba Ramdev Temple, Patwonji ki Haveli, Nathmalji ki Haveli and Salim Singh ki Haveli. Winter is a good time to visit.

• Pokhara Tourism And Travel Guide

30 km from Bikaner is the holy land of Deshnok. Why holy? Because they worship rats here as god. The Karni Mata Temple here is famous for its celebration of various festivals. This forms the main tourist attraction here as it is home to the 20,000 rats considered god or ‘kaba.’ The additional beauty of its marble pillar carvings and flooring make a visit even more fun. Do visit the village during the Karni Mata fair which is held twice a year.

Another desert village in the middle of Rajasthan , Kheechan is the midpoint between Jaisalmer and Jodhpur . Known for its birds, Kheechan is home to the beautiful Demoiselle cranes that migrate here during winter from Central Asia . The villagers feed these cranes and welcome them like family. The bird sanctuary of Kheechan is said to feed around 5000 kg of bird seed every winter, making this place just as kind as it is ethereal. The cranes are locally known as Kurja and adored by one and all. The village is located 162 km away from Bikaner.

The salt city near Bikaner, known for its culture and ethnic beauty, Phalodi has become a tourist attraction in recent years. From royal forts to Jain and Hindu temples, bazars to havelis, this city has it all. It lies 165 km from Bikaner and makes for the perfect winter weekend off. Some of the most coveted places to visit here include Sachiya Mata Temple, Lal Niwas, the Mahavira Temple, and Sun Temple.

The city of Bishnois and Jats, Nagaur has a valiant history. About 117 km from Bikaner, Nagaur invites you into its warm folds. The city lies on the road from Bikaner to Jaisalmer . Formally established in the 12th Century by Naga Kshatriyas, it even finds mention in the great Mahabharat. Visit the sandy Nagaur Fortress that encompasses temples and palaces, gardens and fountains alike. A grandeur unrivalled. Other places to explore are Jain Glass Temple, Deepak Mahal, Hadi Rani Mahal, Tarkeen Dargah, Amar Singh’s Cenotaph and Akbari Mahal.

Sand dunes and the Thar extending in every possible direction; Khimsar is parched yet pretty. Aside from its history, Khimsar is also know for the wilderness where one can spot desert wildlife. Desert safaris are exciting here and best taken during autumn and summer months. Camel safaris are also cool as you get to ride on the back of a camel, with picnic baskets and radios to a nice spot on a sand dune to enjoy the sunset. Visit with family or friends for a nice little weekend. Khimsar is 154 km away from Bikaner.

The Shekhawati region of Rajasthan is known for its unique architecture styles. The havelis here are some of the most beautiful buildings you will ever see. It is also the city of audacious locals as the people of this region are mighty proud. From its antiquated monuments to forts and hand-painted old havelis, architecture lovers are in for a treat. Some of the places to visit in Shekhawati include the Goenka Haveli, Haveli Nadine Leprince and Dholi Sati Dadi Mandir. Shekhawati is 217 km away from Bikaner and a nice little drive for a mild monsoon or winter weekend.

Ladnun is a Jain pilgrimage, a centre of Jainism and compassion (ahimsa). Located 190 km away from the city of Bikaner, Ladnun is a part of the Nagaur district. Known for its aesthetics and temple designs, Ladnun is a destination for spiritually inclined as well as architectural geeks. Visit the Jain temples along with places like Mangalpura Bagichi, Peethwale Balaji, Sukhdev Ashram, Pabolao, Dronanchal Arham Ashram, Venkatesh Mandir and Sujangarh.

A popular tourist hub between Bikaner and Agra , Sikar is another historical city. The town is walled, and there are 7 gated entrances into it. Old havelis, forts, royal palaces etc make Sikar lucrative. It is 218 km away and excellent for a lazy winter getaway. Photo walks around the city are pretty coveted and travellers come from far and wide for the same. Some places to visit around here are Devgarh, Laxmangarh Fort, Khatu Shyamji Temple, Sardul Singh Cenotaph and Seth Ramgopal Poddar Chhatri. These chhatris and frescoes adorning buildings here are some of the best, second only to Jaipur .

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Top 10 Tourist Places in Bikaner (2023)

If ever beauty has blossomed in a desert, it has been in the camel city of Bikaner. Set on a rocky golden desert, Bikaner has a rich history inseminated with countless tales of defiance, passion, and allegiance. The exotic camel safaris , gorgeous forts , notable folk performances , camel races , old Havelis , colorful bazaars, and attractive tourist places in Bikaner make it an exciting place to witness.

Table of Contents

About Rajasthan’s Bikaner

Hordes of people passing, with ringing bells on camel’s necks, women carrying earthen pots, colorful turbans will enchant you to stick to this palace. The whole compass gives a view as if we have come to an ancient era. Bikaner is famous for rangin dupattas, Kundan work, carpets, lacquer bangles, nokha quilts, and fabrics with Sanganeri prints. It is a well-known place for its local crafts .

Named after its founder, the Rathore prince; Rao Bikaji . Bikaner came into existence in 1488. There’s a belief, Rao Jodhaji (Bikaji’s father) challenged him to establish a kingdom for himself. And he chose the wildlands called Jangaldesh . He converted it into the city of Bikaner . A 7 km wall with five entrances was built to protect the city.

Over time, it became an important trade center between Gujarat seaports and West Asian countries. Before India’s independence, Bikaji and his several descendants were ruling Bikaner. Today Bikaner is famous for its excellent breed of world-famous racing camels . As well as, famous for its annual event of camel festival.

How to reach Bikaner?

Bikaner, Rajasthan, India

By Air : Bikaner doesn’t have its official airport. The nearest airport is Jodhpur airport (245 km).

By Train : The rail track of Bikaner is connected to Churu, Jodhpur, and Pink City (Jaipur), etc. In fact, trains from most of the states halt in Bikaner.

By Road : The Bikaner Bus Station is centrally located behind Lalgarh Palace . You can easily reach Bikaner through bus, bike, car, etc.

Best time to visit Bikaner

Summer (April-June): I will say straight NO for this time. The air temperature might go up to 46-50 degrees Celsius . Loo (Hot air) and dust storms are common. Obviously, you must ignore this period .

Monsoon (July-November): Rain showers in Bikaner are rare , but you must expect humidity . To get the best out of Bikaner, look forward to winters .

Winter (December-March): The best time to visit Bikaner is between October-March . The winters are best to plan your trip to Bikaner. Indeed, you will love the weather .

Top 10 Tourist places in Bikaner

The most famous and best places in Bikaner are Junagarh Fort , Lalgarh Palace , Karni Mata Temple , Camel Breeding Farm , Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum , Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary , Karni Bhavan , Devi Kund , Kolayat , and Shiv Bari Temple .

#1 Junagarh Fort

Built-in 1593 by Raja Rai Singh , this imposing and enchanting massive monument has never been conquered by its enemies. It consists of many beautiful palaces, temples, and Havelis. It is an amalgam of mirror work, lacquer work, and paintings.

#2 Lalgarh Palace

An architectural monument carved out of red stone with delicate latticework. A profusion of European and Rajputana architecture . The palace houses several grand halls, lounges, and pavilions. Presently, it has been turned into a luxury 5-star heritage hotel .

#3 Karni Mata Temple

Undoubtedly, one of the strangest temples of Bikaner. Decorated beautifully with marble work . It is a creation of Maharaja Ganga Singh in the Mughal style . It is called ‘ Rat Temple ‘. Because thousands of rats that come to this temple are said to be holy. And a person is considered lucky if they spots a white rat.

#4 Camel Breeding Farm

Camel Breeding Farm is the largest and most exclusive farm in India. In fact, this farm produces the world’s fastest riding camel s. Basically, the objective of the farm is to make a camel an advantageous overture for camel rearers.

The Bikaner government organizes the Bikaner Camel Festival . And is celebrated in January .

#5 Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum

This museum captures your mind and soul and takes you back in time. And is famous for its collection of ancient potteries . It is a small museum located in Bikaner. Also exhibits a collection of beautiful carpets, paintings, coins, hunting trophies, and gilded leaf paintings on camel rides.

#6 Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary

The lake and forested hills of this reserve are 32 km from Bikaner on the Jaisalmer road . There are wildfowl, several deer, and antelopes. And Imperial sand grouse migrate here in winter. Furthermore, one can see wild boar, blackbucks, the majestic sand grouse, and chinkara in the sanctuary. This place of scenic beauty has hillocks encompassing it and housing a lovely lake. On the banks of this lake is a hotel which was an old summer palace earlier.

#7 Karni Bhavan

It was named after Dr. Karni Singh – the then maharaja of Bikaner. And is home to the erstwhile Jagirdars of Sodawas, Bhati Rajputs of the Lunar dynasty. Dr. Karni Singh came from a family of hunters. Though his interest was more in the clay-pigeon shooting. And he gained his expertise in this field. Eventually, he represented his country in the Olympic games.

Now, a part of Karni Bhawan is a hotel . Only six rooms are used to accommodate the overflow of tourists. And it offers all the modern comforts.

#8 Devi Kund

Devi Kund is at a distance of 8 km from the main city. And is among the most popular tourist places in Bikaner. All thanks to its wonderful architecture. There are many royal crematoriums with chhatris (cenotaphs). Each one of them dedicates to the memory of the rulers of the Bikaji dynasty.

Kolayat is a historical center of pilgrimage . The temple devotes to Kapila . Actually, there’s a belief that Vedic sage, Kapila shed his body under a Peepal tree. There are several marble temples, sandstone pavilions, and 52 ghats (bathing places) near a large artificial lake (Kolayat Lake).

Additionally, an annual fair happens between October – November . Thousands of devotees gather to take a dip in Kapil Sarovar during this month’s full moon .

#10 Shiv Bari Temple

Shiv Bari Temple is of red sandstone . And the temple devotes to Lord Shiva . Inside the temple is a four-faced black marble statue of Lord Shiva. This temple displays Rajasthani architecture beautifully. And those unique architectural features impart an excellent look to the temple. As a result, leave a mesmerizing effect on the spectator.

I think you need no other information than the Top 10 tourist places in Bikaner to get the best out of your visit to Bikaner. And hey! Don’t miss the Bikaner Camel Festival and shopping in the local market .

Is Bikaner worth visiting?

Undoubtedly Bikaner is worth visiting . It not only offers raw Rajasthani beauty but is also known for its handicrafts . The Bikaner Camel Festival held in January is also popular among tourists. One must visit Bikaner if you want to experience the real Rajasthan .

Does Bikaner have its own airport?

No, Bikaner doesn't have its own airport. The nearest airport is Jodhpur airport, which is 245 kilometers of distance from Bikaner.

What is Bikaner famous for?

Bikaner is famous for rangi dupppatas , Kundan work , antique work , carpets , lacquer bangles , nokha quilts , and fabrics with sanganeri prints . It is a well-known place for its local crafts .

Which is the best time to visit in Bikaner?

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A complete travel guide to bikaner: the red city of rajasthan in 2023.

• Post published: October 3, 2022
• Post category: India
• Post author: Charu Goyal

Bikaner is undoubtedly one of India’s best kept secrets. Home to plush palaces, ornate havelis , picturesque cenotaphs, and a myriad of beautiful temples, it is an unexplored city in the princely state of Rajasthan that deserves to be on every Rajasthan Itinerary. Trust me, you’ll be surprised to find out how much there is to uncover in this offbeat destination.

Being a place which has all the splendour that Rajasthan is known for, but without the typical crowds that are present in other cities like Jaipur and Udaipur, Bikaner is a haven for photography, history, and architecture enthusiasts. I was completely blown away by the abundance of Instagrammable spots , untouched charm, and unmatched hospitality in the city.

So, if you are planning to visit and are wondering what is there to see in Bikaner other than its famed namkeens and sweets, then you are in the right place. In this guide, you will find everything from how to get to Bikaner, the best places to see in Bikaner, where to stay and more. Read on to see why you must give the Red City of Rajasthan a chance!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using any of those links, I may get a small commission. Thank you for your continued support!

Table of Contents

Where is Bikaner in Rajasthan?

Located only 100 kilometres from the Pakistan border, Bikaner is a city in the middle of the Thar Desert in the North West of Rajasthan. It is approximately 330 kilometres (205 miles) from Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, and 250 kilometres (155 miles) from Jodhpur, the blue city of India. 

If grouped together, each of these three cities have something different to offer and can make for a wonderful Rajasthan trip. But if you are keen on visiting Jaisalmer instead, it is also easily reachable at a distance of around 330 kilometres (205 miles). Many travellers also consider Bikaner a good stopover to break the journey between Jaipur and Jaisalmer.

History of Bikaner

Before becoming the fourth largest city in Rajasthan, Bikaner was nothing but a barren wilderness known as Jangladesh. It was founded as a namesake city in 1488 by Rao Bika, the first son of Maharaja Rao Jodha, the founder of Jodhpur. 

It is believed that Rao Bika left Jodhpur in the pursuit of establishing his own kingdom, instead of inheriting Jodhpur from his father. During his search for a suitable land, he saw promise in Jangladesh and decided to build his estate in what is now known as Bikaner. The first fort in the city, Bikaji Ki Tekri, was constructed by Rao Bika as well.

Even though Bikaner was situated in the middle of the Thar Desert, it was considered an oasis on the former trade route between Central Asia and Gujarat. Due to the presence of adequate spring water, it served as a strategic trade point on the ancient Spice Route. Because of this, the merchants in Bikaner earned generously and you’ll find many elaborate havelis in the city.

Bikaner itself predominantly flourished under its sixth ruler, Raja Rai Singh, who reigned from 1571 to 1611. He accepted the suzerainty of the Mughals during the Mughal Empire and held a high rank as an army general in the court of Emperor Akbar, as well as his son, Emperor Jahangir. 

During this period, Rai Singh won a significant share of the Mewar Kingdom for the Empire and was handsomely rewarded for the same. With this revenue, he thenceforth built the city’s most famed architectural marvel, Junagarh Fort. Following this, Bikaner came under the suzerainty of the British under the treaty of paramountcy, which was signed in 1818.

While the main control of Bikaner was in the hands of the Britishers, the royal family of Bikaner still kept ruling on the ground. Modern Bikaner, as we know it, is the result of the prudence of Maharaja Ganga Singh, who ruled from 1887 to 1943. He was a favourite of the British Viceroys of India and made significant contributions to Junagarh Fort. Laxmi Niwas Palace and Lalgarh Palace were also commissioned by him.

How to get to Bikaner?

Whether you are travelling domestically within India or visiting directly from international destinations, there are multiple ways to get to the city of Bikaner. Here are the most common transport options to help you decide the best mode for you:

Getting to Bikaner by air

Located only 13 kilometres west of the city, Civil Airport Bikaner is the closest airport serving the city of Bikaner. Along with being a domestic airport, it is also an Indian air force station commonly known as Nai Air Force Station and Bikaner Air Force Station.

While the majority of the airport is still under development, there is one direct flight operating between New Delhi and Bikaner every day. Bikaner doesn’t have any direct flight connections to other cities in India as of yet, but I will update this post as soon as more routes are added.

If you want better air connectivity, it is best to fly to either Jodhpur or Jaipur. The airport in Jodhpur is closer to Bikaner than Jaipur airport, but the latter offers a wider variety of direct domestic and international routes. From there, you can cover the distance to Bikaner by train or road. Check the best flight route for you here .

Getting to Bikaner by train

Bikaner Junction and Lalgarh Junction are the two main railway stations in Bikaner. They are located approximately 6 kilometres (4 miles) away from each other in the city centre of Bikaner. From there, you can hail an auto-rickshaw or ask your hotel to arrange a taxi for you beforehand.

The railway connectivity in Bikaner is much better than air connectivity and you can find trains from most cities like New Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Jodhpur and more arriving directly. For more information about your particular route, check train timings and schedules here .

Getting to Bikaner by road

If you are coming from anywhere in Rajasthan, it might be easier and more convenient to travel to Bikaner by road. The highway connecting Bikaner with other major cities is in great condition and there are plenty of eateries along the way. You can take your own vehicle or book a private taxi for the transfer and reach Bikaner at your convenience. 

Depending on how early you leave and the traffic along the way, you can get from Jaipur to Bikaner in approximately six to seven hours. My family and I left Jaipur around 8 am and were there in time for lunch. In case you are travelling from Jodhpur or Jaisalmer, it will take you around five to six hours to cover the distance in a car.

If you are travelling on a budget, it is also possible to reach Bikaner by bus. There are plenty of buses operating between Bikaner and other cities in North India. Depending on your preference, you can choose between air-conditioned (AC), non-air-conditioned (Non-AC), or sleeper buses. Find more information about bus prices and schedules here .

CG’s tip: Please keep in mind that cities like New Delhi and Agra are further away and it is advised to use other modes of transport for them.

How to get around Bikaner?

Public transportation in Bikaner is pretty much non-existent and online cab aggregators like Uber and Ola aren’t operational in the city as of yet. Moreover, some tourist landmarks are located far apart from each other so you will need some kind of transport to get from point A to B.

If you do not have your own vehicle with you, I recommend hiring a taxi through your hotel or hailing auto-rickshaws (tuk-tuks) as needed. We got the latter from outside our hotel and ended up hiring the same person throughout our stay for about INR 800 per day. This way you have the rickshaw with you at all times and can get around more conveniently.

CG’s tip: Even if you have a car with you, it is best to hop on an auto-rickshaw if visiting the old city area. The streets near Rampuria Haveli and Bhandasar Jain Temple are narrow and you don’t want to be stuck in traffic otherwise (or be the reason for a roadblock).

What is the best time to visit Bika ner?

Similar to the rest of Rajasthan, the best time to visit Bikaner is during the winter months of October to February. The weather in Bikaner is ideal during this time of the year with clear afternoons and pleasantly cool temperatures at night. You will be able to peacefully sightsee without worrying about feeling hot due to being in the desert.

Bikaner during the summer months from April through June can be insufferably hot with temperatures rising up to 50° Celsius (122°F) on some days. Although the evenings are slightly better with an average temperature of 28° Celsius (82.4 ° F), it isn’t practical for exploring the city.

The monsoon season in Bikaner runs from July to September typically, but being located in the middle of the desert, Bikaner barely experiences much rainfall. If you don’t mind a little humidity and want to go during off-peak season to save money, September and March are also decent months to visit.

I was in Bikaner near August end and didn’t mind the heat that much as I am accustomed to it due to living in Jaipur. The hotel prices being relatively low was an added bonus for sure!

How many days are enough?

Most travellers visiting Bikaner mainly come to break the journey between Jaipur and Jaisalmer and stay only for a night or two. But if you want to see the majority of the famous tourist attractions in Bikaner, I would recommend staying for three nights to soak everything in.

Other than the landmarks within the city, there are some popular spots like Devi Kund Sagar and Gajner Palace located a little further away. If you have three full days in Bikaner, you can visit them all in a single trip to the city. In case you would like to spend a night at Gajner Palace and wildlife sanctuary or in a desert camp, then an extra night may be ideal to not have to rush.

My family and I spent three nights in Bikaner and were able to visit all the spots on our list. But keep in mind that we had been to Gajner Palace already and didn’t go on this trip.

Where to stay in Bikaner?

Being a city with such a momentous history, you can bet that Bikaner has its fair share of heritage palaces turned into boutique and luxury hotels. Irrespective of what your preferences, budget, and purpose of the trip may be, you can undoubtedly find an aesthetic property to base yourself in Bikaner.

I stayed at the beautiful Narendra Bhawan for the first two nights of my trip and then moved to Laxmi Niwas Palace for the last night. Narendra Bhawan was the palace of the last reigning king of Bikaner, Maharaja Narendra Singh, who travelled extensively around Europe and was greatly inspired by the Bombay Art Deco movement. 

After his passing in 2003, the palace was transformed into a luxury boutique hotel and you can find memorabilia from his travels (and life in general) all around the property. Housing over 80 rooms, a spa, rooftop swimming pool, multiple restaurants, and one of the most beautiful courtyards ever, it became my favourite property in Bikaner in no time. The artistic interiors at Narendra Bhawan were second only to their generous hospitality!

Laxmi Niwas Palace, on the other hand, was once the residence of Maharaja Ganga Singh and was constructed in 1902. While the architecture of Laxmi Niwas Palace is spellbinding and the hotel has somewhat become an image of Bikaner, the rooms there feel quite outdated and in dire need of a renovation now. I remember my family and I loving it when we stayed there many years ago.

So, I would advise you to go to Laxmi Niwas Palace for a meal instead and tour the property on your visit as it is still very picturesque. Their Rajasthani thalis are delectable. For everything else, I personally prefer Narendra Bhawan. Lallgarh Palace , located in the same premises as Laxmi Niwas Palace, is also another option worth checking out. 

For budget travellers, there are many havelis and homestays located in the old city of Bikaner. You can check the prices and availability here .

Best places to see in Bikaner?

Bikaner has no dearth of incredible places to offer. From the mesmerising Junagarh Fort, to the iconic Rampuria Haveli, there are plenty of monuments to entice both domestic and international tourists. Here are some sites that you should unquestionably add to your Bikaner itinerary:

Junagarh Fort

Because how can a city in Rajasthan not have an impeccable fort under its belt? Built in the late 16 th century by Raja Rai Singh, Junagarh Fort is an unmissable stop on any Bikaner itinerary. It is located in the heart of Bikaner’s city centre and is the only fort in Rajasthan that is built on ground level and not atop an elevated platform like a hill.

Junagarh Fort was formerly known as Chintamani Fort in the years gone by. It is said that when the royal family moved their residence to Lalgarh Palace in the 20 th century, the fort was renamed Junagarh Fort meaning old fort. Housing different coloured palaces, numerous courtyards and temples, it is undoubtedly the most famous landmark in Bikaner.

When visiting Junagarh Fort, you are destined to be amazed upon discovering the exquisite work of sixteen rulers that called it home during different eras and added their own architectural elements to the edifice. One of my favourite sections was Badal Mahal, a blue room painted with clouds portraying rainfall for royal children as the city of Bikaner barely experienced it.

Chandra Mahal with its lavish gold plated deities, intricate stone inlays, bedrooms and paintings was another highlight. From Rajput and British influences, to Bikaner’s Dulmera sandstone and Mughal design elements, the blend of different architecture at Junagarh Fort was unlike anything I have seen before. It truly is different from other forts in Rajasthan.

Ultimately, Junagarh Fort also consists of museums and you can spend some time learning about the royal family of Bikaner and admire their fleet of vehicles. One of the only two models of the biplane that was used by the British in World War I is also housed in the basement of the fort. It was gifted by the Britishers to Maharaja Ganga Singh and is quite fascinating to see. The Prachina Museum is also worth visiting once you are done with the interior of fort.

CG’s tip: The Junagarh Fort is enormous in size and there is a lot to see when there. Make sure to keep two to three hours aside for it when visiting and don’t forget to go up to the top for an unobstructed view of the city. The Sur Sagar Lake outside the fort is also lovely.

Opening hours: 10 am – 4:30 pm, every day. Entrance fee: INR 50 for Indian nationals and INR 300 for foreign tourists. Student discount is available with a valid ID.

Rampuria Haveli

Possibly the most photographed landmark in Bikaner, Rampuria Haveli is a cluster of seven ornate mansions (havelis) located in the old city. These havelis were constructed in the 15 th century by a wealthy merchant family of Bikaner called Rampuria. Made with the signature red sandstone of Bikaner called Dulmera , it is easy to grasp why Bikaner is known as the red city of Rajasthan. 

If you could only see one place in Bikaner, then by all means, don’t even think twice before heading here. From the intricate carvings on the wall, to the different coloured jharokas and doors, to the startling symmetry, there is so much to admire when visiting Rampuria Haveli. I loved this area of Bikaner so much that I ended up going there on two consecutive mornings.

Rampuria Haveli is also known as the pride of Bikaner and it is easy to understand why. With a strong influence of Victorian architecture, they are a perfect blend of British, Mughal and Rajput design elements. If you ask me, I think it is truly a shame that most of these havelis are now closed and empty as the owners have left Bikaner for tier 1 cities like Kolkata and Mumbai.

Still, if you are interested in seeing them from inside, one of the havelis is now a heritage hotel called Bhanwar Niwas . You can book a room there to enjoy the interiors to the fullest or visit for a meal whilst exploring the walled city. Just make sure to make a reservation beforehand or request your hotel to do so.

CG’s tip: Rampuria Haveli is located on a small one-way street and gets very busy after 9 am. If you want to take pictures while standing in the middle of the road like me or are simply looking to enjoy the architecture without all the honking, I would recommend to be there at sunrise. You can also go on a walking tour with a local if you like.

Opening hours: All day, every day. Entrance fee: Free of cost.

The Walled City of Bikaner

While the Rampuria Haveli is located within the walled city of Bikaner on Joshiwara street, there are many more beautiful facades and temples to explore in this area. Locals say that out of the thousands of havelis that were there in ancient times, about 400 have survived over the years and are still spread around the city. The Kothari Havelis in particular were incredibly eye-pleasing.

My family and I spent a couple of hours walking around the neighbourhood from Rampuria Haveli and came across many picturesque nooks. We didn’t have enough time to book a tour, but if you do, Narendra Bhawan offers an experience called Merchant’s Trail where a local guide takes you around the winding lanes of the walled city telling tales of yesteryear. I honestly can’t wait to go back and do it sometime soon!

The walled city is also home to a busy market with many shops selling sumptuous local street food and namkeens that are quintessential Bikaner. If you browse around Kote Gate, you can even find stores selling textiles and other souvenirs. Besides, Bikaner’s famous moustache man with a few metres long moustache also lives in the area and you can visit his shop to get a picture with him. Just don’t forget to tip him for his time!

Seth Bhandasar Jain Temple

Although located in the vicinity of the old town of Bikaner as well, Seth Bhandasar Jain Temple calls for a special mention due to its magnificent interiors. The city of Bikaner is home to many popular temples, but this is easily the most beautiful one to see. Also known as Bhanda Shah Jain Temple, it is a must see site in Bikaner even if you are not religious.

Seth Bhandasar Jain Temple was built in the mid-15 th century and is dedicated to Sumatinatha, the 5 th Tirthankara. Renowned for its surreal wall paintings, colourful frescos, stone carvings and detailed gold inlay art work, it is one of the best temples to see in Bikaner. Trust me, you’ll thank me later for sharing this underrated gem.

Another thing that sets Seth Bhandasar Jain Temple apart is the fascinating tale related to its construction. Legends say that since there was a scarcity of water in the region, the temple was constructed using 40,000 kilograms of ghee (clarified butter) instead of water in the mortar. The priest at the temple swears that visitors can still feel it during the summer months.

And, while it doesn’t look like much from the outside, this temple is 3 storeys tall and you can actually climb up to the roof for an unobstructed view of the old city of Bikaner. You can visit in the late afternoon and then go up to the roof for sunset. Just keep in mind that the temple has a strict no leather policy so make sure you aren’t carrying any wallets, bags or belts.

CG’s tip: You will also need to take your shoes off at the entrance and walk over a short marble path to access the stairs of the temple. The floor isn’t dirty by any means but it can be unbearably hot if you are visiting when the sun is high up. The temple also gets really busy during the prayer hours at sunrise and sunset.

Opening hours: Morning or evening hours as the temple closes for a few hours in the afternoon and reopens from 4 pm onwards. Entrance fee: Free, but there is a INR 25 charge for videos.

Karni Mata Temple

Probably the most unique temple I have ever heard of or visited, Karni Mata Temple located at Deshnok is famous for over 25,000 rats that live, and are worshipped, there. Plenty has been written about how devotees visiting this Hindu temple feed the rats in order to yearn their blessings. There are even shops set up outside the temple selling food for the rats, but you really have to see it to believe it.

This temple is also known as the temple of rats and you will find them scurrying around all over the premises. Along with black rats, you can even spot some white ones which are considered extremely auspicious by locals. The rats at Karni Mata Temple can be seen running around, drinking milk, eating from the hands of the priest and worshippers, or simply resting.

Legends say that when Lakshman, the son of Karni Mata, drowned in a pond while attempting to drink water from it, the Goddess pleaded to Yamaraja, the God of Death, to revive her son. After refusing initially, Yamaraja allowed Lakshman and all the other sons of Karni Mata to be reincarnated as rats. So, devotees believe that the rats belong to her reincarnated clan.

Still, I would recommend you to only visit here if you aren’t scared of rats. They are literally everywhere at the temple and some may get really close to you. However, the rats at Karni Mata temple aren’t the same as sewage rats and the place doesn’t stink at all. Many people travel great distances just to come to this unlikely holy site.

CG’s tip: Karni Mata Temple is located a little outside of the city of Bikaner and you will need to book a transport to go there. I personally didn’t visit on my recent trip but have been before in a private taxi. You can hire a car for a day and cover all the spots that are further away together. Alternatively, there is also a train station right outside the temple.

Opening hours: 04:00 am – 10 pm. Entrance fee: Free, but donations are appreciated.

Devi Kund Sagar

Since Rajasthan doesn’t believe in doing anything on a small scale, the crematoriums there are beautiful too. Located around 9 kilometres (5.6 miles) away from the city centre of Bikaner, Devi Kund Sagar is the cremation ground of the royal family of Bikaner. If you like visiting off-beat landmarks, then don’t give this a miss. The cenotaphs ( chattris ) there are unbelievable!

Marrying Mughal and Rajputana architecture, Devi Kund Sagar is home to over 70 stunning cenotaphs that are built using white marble and Dulmera sandstone. The cenotaphs that were constructed in ancient times are all built with Dulmera sandstone while the more recent ones are made with white marble. However, the chhatri of Maharaja Narendra Singh Ji is of Dulmera.

When visiting Devi Kund Sagar (aka the Royal Cenotaphs of Bikaner or Bikaner Raj Parivaar Vishram Grah), you will notice that some of the cenotaphs are decorated more elaborately than others. This was done to show respect to rulers who played a significant role in Bikaner’s development. My personal favourites were the cenotaphs of Raja Karan Singh and Maharaja Anup Singh.

There are also chhatris of the female members of the royal family as well as children who passed away at a young age. Spend some time exploring them carefully as you will notice there are clear distinctive features that give away whose cenotaph it is. You will also find chhatris of both men and women who committed sati , a historical Hindu practice of self-immolation that is thankfully considered illegal now.

CG’s tip : If you are going there in a taxi or auto-rickshaw, make sure to tell the driver beforehand that it will be a return journey. I didn’t see any transport options around the cenotaphs so it would be hard to get something for the way back once there. Also, you’ll need to take your shoes off before entering so avoid going during afternoon hours as the floor can be very hot.

Opening hours: 9 am ­– 5 pm, every day. Entrance fee: INR 5 for Indian tourists and INR 10 for foreigners. Take cash with you.

Thar Desert

Talking about Bikaner attractions that are a little outside of the main city, Thar Desert or The Great Indian Desert is another must-see spot that comes to mind. If you are not travelling to Jaisalmer on your trip or would like to see some off-beat sand dunes, then make sure to add this to your Bikaner itinerary. It is located only a few kilometres from the city centre.

While the sand dunes in Bikaner aren’t as vast as the Khuri Sand Dunes and Sam Sand Dunes close to Jaisalmer, the experience here feels more authentic and visiting them for sunset is surreal. Whether you would like to go on a camel safari or stay overnight in a desert camp, there are numerous activities and experiences to choose from when visiting the Bikaner sand dunes.

One of the experiences that I personally wanted to try but didn’t have enough time for is The Crescent Grill and Dinner by Narendra Bhawan. During this, you are escorted to a private area of the desert where a beautiful set up with freshly prepared food awaits you. Dining under the stars with no one around definitely sounds like an experience for the books.

CG’s tip: Irrespective of the activity or experience you choose to opt for, make sure you book the same via a reputable company. Most of these services should include transfers from Bikaner and back so enquire about the same beforehand. But you can also visit on your own in your vehicle if you like.

Opening hours: All day, every day. Entrance fee: Depends on the experience you choose, but otherwise free of cost.

Gajner Palace and Wildlife Sanctuary

Although located over an hour from Bikaner’s city centre, Gajner Palace and Wildlife Sanctuary is a beautiful landmark worth going the extra mile for. The palace was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh on the shores of Gajner Lake as a hunting resort and is spread over 6000 acres. It was converted into a heritage hotel in the late 20 th century.

If you are looking to splurge and want to have an experience amidst nature, I would recommend you to spend at least a night at the Gajner Palace . Alternatively, you’ll be pleased to know that Gajner Palace also accommodates day visitors so you can pay a small fee to enter and enjoy the premises to your heart’s desire. The architecture of the property is incredible and there are so many different sections to explore.

The Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary is home to species such as wild boars, nilgais, black bucks, chinkaras, desert foxes and more. If you would like to go on a safari through the sanctuary, make sure to reserve the same with the hotel as you would need their personnel with a jeep to escort you. Moreover, during the summer months, you can even spot some animals by the lakeside. 

CG’s tip: If you are visiting Gajner Palace on a day trip, then time your visit in a way that you are there for sunset. There are many birds and peacocks around during that time of the day and you can even go for a boat ride to admire the surroundings from another perspective.

Opening hours: The hotel is open all day and the Gajner wildlife sanctuary timings are 10 am – 5 pm. Entrance fee: INR 100 for the day visitor entry. For overnight stays at Gajner Palace, check prices and availability here .

Lallgarh Palace and Shri Sadul Singh Museum

Lallgarh Palace or Lalgarh Palace is another beautiful heritage property in Bikaner. It was built for Maharaja Ganga Singh in the early 20 th century because he felt that the Junagarh fort was not befitting as the residence of the royal family anymore. The royal family of Bikaner moved to Lalgarh Palace upon its completion and the descendants of Maharaja Ganga Singh still reside there to this day.

If you want to get a taste of the royal life of Rajasthan, then you can book a room at the Lalgarh Palace and experience it in all its grandeur. The complex has multiple wings under its belt and while a part of it is a dedicated royal residence, the other half has been converted into a heritage hotel managed by the emperor’s trust. The art deco indoor swimming pool at Lalgarh Palace is reason enough to go if you ask me.

But if you are on a budget, then you can still pay a visit to one of Bikaner’s most famous museums, Shri Sadul Singh Museum, that is situated within the Lalgarh Palace. Other than displaying a wide range of Georgian sketches, unique artefacts and hunting trophies, it is also home to the fourth largest private library in the world. Though, visitors are sometimes not allowed to wander around the palace if just visiting the museum.

CG’s tip: If you want to explore Lalgarh Palace but are staying somewhere else, then I recommend making a reservation at their restaurant for lunch. You can visit the museum before and then inside the hotel part of the palace to enjoy a meal and amble around. The intricate lattice work and carving all over the edifice are absolutely worth it!

Opening hours: The hotel is open all day, but Sri Sadul Museum is operational only from 10 am – 5 pm every day except Sunday. Entrance Fee: INR 10 for the museum. For overnight stays at Lalgarh Palace, check prices and availability here .

Laxmi Niwas Palace

Originally a part of the Lalgarh Palace, Laxmi Niwas Palace is now a heritage hotel that has been leased to a hotel group. It is located in the same complex as the Lalgarh Palace and you can easily walk between the two in a couple of minutes. Being one of the most beautiful heritage hotels in India, seeing the Laxmi Niwas Palace is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Bikaner.

The exterior of Laxmi Niwas Palace is spellbinding and the area of the hotel is so grand that you will need at least a few hours to take it all in. From the massive manicured lawns at the front, to the picturesque swimming pool and unbelievable rooftop, everything at this hotel photographs so beautifully. I particularly loved the use of Dulmera sandstone throughout the property.

So, even if you are not staying there, do yourself a favour and visit the hotel for a meal. Their dinners are famously special with delectable Rajasthani thalis on the menu and live folk musicians playing as you dine. After all, how often do you get to have a candle light dinner in the heart of a century old palace?

The entry to the premises can be restricted if you are not a guest, so make sure you have reservations from before. The hotel also has some exhibits on the ground level and you can find many royal artefacts spread around the property. Just note that one of the rooms is dedicated to taxidermy from the hunts that Maharajas used to go on and can be disturbing to witness.

Opening hours: All day, every day. Entrance fee: INR 500 for non-hotel guests which is deductible from your dining bill. For overnight stays, you can check the prices and availability here .

ICAR-National Research Centre on Camel

The ICAR-National Research Centre on Camel or Bikaner Camel Research Centre is another unique place to visit in Bikaner. Built to understand and protect camels, this centre is dedicated to camel health, breeding, psychology, benefits and utilisation of their milk. There is a small museum sharing the development in research and other interesting facts as well.

You can find many different types of camels being protected there. I was surprised to see black and white camels, along with baby camels at this centre. It could be an exciting place to visit if you are travelling with kids. The only downside is that there aren’t any guides or staff to explain anything and you are pretty much by yourself with little information.

Some facilities for camel riding (I don’t recommend it) and desert safaris are also available at the camel research centre. There are even souvenir shops selling decorative products like bags, shawls, shoes, and more. If you consume dairy, you may also try the famous camel milk kulfi (ice cream) that is made with saffron at their humble cafe. 

If you are exceptionally interested in camels, there is even a popular Camel Festival that happens in the city every January which attracts visitors from all over.

CG’s tip: Bikaner Camel Research Centre is located close to Thar Desert and Devi Kund Sagar. You can easily club all these places in one trip and make the most out of your time. The camels go for grazing during the day and only return around 3 pm. If you want to have a better experience, then I would advise going after that.

Opening hours: 10 am – 5 pm, closed on Sundays. Entrance fee: INR 30 for Indian nationals and INR 100 for Foreigners. Extra charges for camera and riding are applicable as well.

Bikaner Miniature Arts

India in general is known for its art and the city of Bikaner is no different. If you are an art aficionado, then Bikaner Miniature Arts should definitely be in your top places to visit in Bikaner list. Its founder, Shiv Swami, is known for holding two Guinness world record titles for the world’s smallest paintings in 2002 and 2003.

Bikaner Miniature Arts gallery has a few different rooms displaying different categories of miniature paintings per section. You will find themes such as birds, animals, Hindu deities, the history of Bikaner, nature and more. Most of the paintings at the studio are done by Shiv Swami and other members of the Swami family.

When visiting, not only will you get a chance to admire this unique art up close, but also have a meet and greet with the artist who is often always there. He is an extremely humble person who may even offer to draw a small miniature painting on your fingernail. Trust me, you will be surprised at how much he can fit in that little of a space.

Due to the nature of intricate detailing, some of the paintings done by the Swami family have even taken months to finish. You can purchase them directly at the gallery for a very fair price. They will surely make for a unique souvenir!

Opening hours: 10 am – 6 pm, every day. Entrance fee : The shop is free to visit and they also provide free classes and courses for aspiring artists.

If you find yourself having more time in Bikaner, then Bikaji Ki Tekri and Ganga Singh Museum (aka Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum or Ganga Government Museum) are some other places to check out when there. Another famous art studio in Bikaner called Usta Golden Art by Ashish Buchha is also recommended. 

For temples, Laxmi Nath Temple, Shiv Bari Temple, Kodamdeshwar Temple, Ratan Bihari Temple, and Kolayatji Temple are also very well-known and loved. I can’t wait to go back and explore these Bikaner sights someday!

Map of the best places in Bikaner

To make your time in Bikaner even more convenient, I have created a custom map containing all the best places in Bikaner for you. This way you can club places that are closer in one outing and plan your trip more easily.

Just click on the bracket in the upper right corner and the map will automatically open in Google Maps on your device. You can leave it open to come back to it later or share with friends and family. Super convenient, right?

Best places to eat in Bikaner?

My love for Rajasthani food is no secret, so I love travelling within the state and tasting local delicacies of different districts. Here are some places that I would recommend for the best food in Bikaner:

P&C: Abbreviated for Pearls & Chiffons, P&C is the main dining room at Narendra Bhawan. Serving a delicious mix of Indian and International cuisines, it is an all-day dining restaurant where you can find everything from fresh salads to thalis. My family and I especially loved the Museum Dinner at the Night Room experience at one of the private areas of P&C. I don’t think we have ever tried a sabzi of aloe vera before!

Gaushala: Gaushala is an outdoor restaurant at Narendra Bhawan overlooking the beautiful edifice and the courtyard. The menu is the same as P&C, but it is a must if you are looking for a place to dine at night. The building of the hotel is lit up beautifully after sunset and you can admire the same while you eat. The service was extraordinary at both establishments.

Swarna Mahal: Dining at Swarna Mahal is as much about the food as it is about the interior of the restaurant. Located inside the regal Laxmi Niwas Palace, the walls and ceiling of this restaurant are adorned with the finest Usta art. They offer both Indian and international cuisine, but I would recommend going for their Indian dishes. Their Rajasthani thali is one of the best I have ever had!

I had all my proper meals in Bikaner in the hotels I stayed at as we would always be in the hotel during the afternoon hours to escape the heat. But since there are many local delicacies to taste in Bikaner, I, of course, indulged in those while sightseeing.

Best local food to try in Bikaner?

Even after being home to such remarkable attractions, the one thing that Bikaner is most known for is its local dishes. Whether you are visiting tourist landmarks or shopping near Kote Gate and Station Road, you are bound to come across numerous eateries selling Bhujia and hot Kachoris in Bikaner. Here is a list of the popular local food that is worth indulging in in the city:

Bikaner Bhujia: Bhujia is that one Indian snack that you’ll find in nearly every Indian household. Made with gram flour, moth beans, spices and groundnut oil, it is a kind of fried noodle that is salty and crispy. With its origins dating back to Bikaner, many big Indian companies such as Bikaji and Haldirams selling Bhujia also trace their roots back to the city. One of the most famous places to try Bhujia in Bikaner is Bhikharam Chandmal at Kote Gate. You can also visit Bhujia factories in Bikaner and learn about how this loving snack is made.

Rasgulla: Although this Indian sweet dish is known to be a speciality of West Bengal and Orissa, Bikaner’s version is equally loved by locals and tourists. Cooked in a light sugar syrup, it is a milk-based ball-shaped dumpling that is white and spongy. Some of the most popular places to try Rasgulla in Bikaner are Chhotu Motu Joshi sweet shop and Bhikharam Chandmal.

Kachori: If you are looking for something savoury instead, Kachori is famous all over Rajasthan. It is a spicy deep-fried snack that comes with a variety of fillings. You will find vendors taking out hot kachoris during the morning hours in Bikaner as it is one of the most loved breakfast dishes of the locals. Some places serve it with a savoury and a sweet chutney (dip) while others with a potato sabzi. Raj Kachori, a variant served with yoghurt, is also quite popular.

Camel Milk Kulfi: Camel milk kulfi is another speciality of Bikaner and you can get it at the ICAR-National Research Centre on Camel. It is an Indian ice-cream on a stick that is mainly made with camel milk, sugar and saffron. I am not a big fan of dairy so I didn’t try it myself, but I know some people who loved it and others who found it more on the heavier side. I guess you’ll have to go try it for yourself to see what you think!

Sharbat: Sharbat is another popular favourite of the locals of Bikaner. It is essentially a natural syrup that is mixed with water and ice to make a refreshing cooler. The most popular place selling sharbat in Bikaner is Chunnilal Tanwar’s syrup shop that serves syrups made with natural flowers and mostly without artificial colours.

Presented in terracotta glasses, the sharbats at Chunnilal Tanwar’s syrup shop come in a variety of flavours such as gulab (rose), saunf (fennel), laung (clove) and more. My personal favourite is the Bela flavour, which is made from jasmine flowers. I tried it for the first time upon check in at Narendra Bhawan and immediately asked for more!

Rajasthani Thali: Although Rajasthani thali isn’t a dish in itself, it consists of so many delicious local delicacies that you must try it when in Bikaner. The dishes in the thali can vary depending on the place that you eat it at and the option that you choose. 

I had the vegetarian Rajasthani Thali at Laxmi Niwas Palace and it included local dishes such as Dal , Bhati , Rajasthani Kadhi , Sev Tamatar ki Sabzi, Papad ki Sabzi, Ker Sangri ki Sabzi, Gatte ki Sabzi, Churma and more. Everything on the plate was prepared with centuries old recipes and it was easily one of the best meals I had in the city.

What to buy in Bikaner?

Souvenirs are a wonderful way to remember a trip by. If you love bringing local goods for yourself or friends and family, then don’t forget to spend some time in the markets in Bikaner. Bazaars near Kote Gate, Station Road Market, Lallgarh Palace Road, Mahatma Gandhi (M.G.) Road, and Bara Bazaar are all full of options. Here is a list of things you can consider bringing back:

Miniature Paintings : Miniature paintings are unique to this region of India and can be a beautiful addition to any space. You can get really affordable ones from Bikaner Miniature Arts for yourself or as a gift.

Bikaneri Bhujia and Sweets: If you want to carry food souvenirs, then sweets are a good option if you are going back home right after as they should be eaten fresh. For something more long-lasting, consider buying the iconic Bikaneri bhujia.

Small Wooden Carved Objects: Bikaner has plenty of artefacts to offer and small wooden carved objects are some of the most popular. From quaint jewellery boxes and toys, to furniture and household items, you can find a lot of options in the main markets in Bikaner. Just don’t forget to bargain!

Rajasthani Handicrafts: Other decorative souvenirs that you can buy from Bikaner are Rajasthani handicrafts. These range from wall-hangings to terracotta sculptures to pottery and more. While they are available throughout the state, you may find that the prices in Bikaner are better compared to more famous cities like Jaipur and Jodhpur.

Leather Articles: It is impossible to visit a market in Rajasthan and not come across colourful leather articles like mojaris and juttis (a type of Indian shoes). Apart from being beautiful to look at, they are also very comfortable and durable. Trust me, the women in your life would love to receive these as gifts!

Sharbat: If you try the sharbat at Chunnilal Tanwar’s syrup shop from my recommendation above and like it, then you can even get a bottle of the syrup to take back home and make the drink yourself. The packaging is done quite well and it is very affordable too.

Pickles: I like to think that we Indians can make pickles out of anything edible. Pickles in India are very popular and Bikaner has a few speciality options that are exclusive to Rajasthan. If you like Indian pickles as well, you can buy some from the Golchha Store in the city.

What to pack for Bikaner?

• Some weather appropriate clothing. The temperatures in Bikaner are generally hot during the day and if you are travelling during the winter, then it can be really cold at night. I always carry some light cotton maxis that are loosely fitted for the day and a jacket for when it gets colder.
• A camera! Bikaner is home to so many photogenic sights that you would be crazy to travel all the way there and not bring a camera to capture its beauty. Irrespective of whether you like to shoot with a smartphone or a professional gear, make sure to bring something with you. I use the Sony A7rIII and the iPhone 13 Pro .
• Some lenses! If you like taking photos with a professional camera, then chances are you have a couple of lenses for it. If so, I would recommend packing both a wide-angle lens and a zoom lens as the architecture is quite varied and you would wish you had a wider range.
• A durable hard drive because all those photos need to be stored somewhere now, don’t they? This may not apply to everyone, but I like to take a backup of my files every day and thus carry a hard drive on all my trips. Not only does it help to empty SD cards, but I honestly sleep better knowing my photos are safely backed up. This is the one I use.

• A scarf! Because Rajasthan is a conservative state when it comes to the dressing style, so if you are a woman, I would recommend having a scarf with you at all times in case you feel like covering your shoulders. It is also useful when visiting religious sites like temples.
• A sun hat or sunglasses because Bikaner is a desert city and the sun there can be really intense. Also, make sure to carry SPF 50 with you too.
• A packet of wet wipes . Along with the temples in Bikaner, you have to walk barefoot at Devi Kund Sagar too so your feet will get dirty when sightseeing. I always keep a packet in my bag and wipe my feet before putting my shoes on again.
• Cash! Whether you choose to withdraw cash in Bikaner or have some on you from before, make sure to keep a little emergency cash handy in case you visit places that are cash only. 
• A travel plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, and M. If your devices are bought from outside India, then make sure to check this to have a seamless experience at your accommodation or ask your hotel for a spare. This one works in most places around the world.
• A portable charger . Since you are going to be out and about all the time and using your phone for photos, directions, restaurant reviews, you may run out of battery quickly. A portable charger ensures you always have a working device with you!
• A steamer! I don’t know about you but I always find that my clothes could use some steaming after being in a suitcase during transit. This one is really compact and works wonders.
• And lastly, some hand sanitisers and face masks . You can never have too much of these while travelling during these uncertain times.

Some other things to know before visiting Bikaner

• The local way of greeting others in Bikaner is Jai-Jai. Although you can still use Khamma Ghani or Namaste as anywhere in Rajasthan, you’ll find most locals saying Jai-Jai when they see you.
• The Rampuria Havelis are located in a residential area and since Bikaner isn’t a major tourist destination, the locals aren’t that used to crowds. If you are visiting early in the morning, please try to be respectful and don’t speak loudly amongst yourselves.
• The Maharajas of Bikaner loved and valued animals largely. You will find that there are multiple schools dedicated to solely studying animals. There are also numerous medical shops selling medicines for animals. My family and I had to go buy something for ourselves and we came across more medical stores for animals than humans.
• The city of Bikaner is also nicknamed as camel country because of the presence of a camel breeding farm and research centre.
• If you have some extra time in Bikaner, it is also possible to do some day trips from the city. The town of Mandawa is approximately 190 kilometres (118 miles) from Bikaner and is a beautiful sight to behold. It is also off the beaten track. Other places that you can consider visiting are Nagaur and Shekhawati.

Final Thoughts

That’s a wrap on a comprehensive Bikaner travel guide from me! I have tried to cover everything I could think that would be useful for you in planning your trip, so I hope you found this post helpful. I have written a detailed guide about the Bikaner Cenotaphs and Instagrammable spots in Bikaner too, so you can check those out as well.

In case you have any questions or comments for me, then please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. I love hearing from you and making your travel planning process as convenient as possible. For more pictures from my trip to Bikaner, make sure you check out my Bikaner highlight on Instagram .

Happy exploring,  Charu xx

Want to keep reading? You may like “ A complete travel guide to Agra ” and “ Best photo spots in Jaipur ” too.

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This Post Has 2 Comments

Wow, your pictures are stunning! And you’ve definitely inspired me to visit Bikaner when I visit India, because it looks so beautiful.

Charu your photos are absolutely breahtaking! Bikaner seems right out of a fairy tale. India has so much to offer, I’m sad I only saw a small part of it on my last trip. Definitely need to go back soon and also put Bikaner on my itinerary! 🙂

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Best 7 Tourist Attractions In Bikaner

If you love to be associated with a city that has a rich cultural heritage, you need to be in Bikaner . The city was established in the year 1488 AD by Rao Bika Ji , a Rajput prince. The city is known for producing great warriors. The excavations from this city prove that the civilization was at its peak here even before Harappan civilization. Imposing palaces, forts and stunning temples with great architecture boast of the finesse of the Rajput civilization. Here are the 7 places to visit in Bikaner , which are all time favorites for tourists.

1. Junagarh Fort

Visitor Information

• Famous for: History, Architecture, Photography.
• Tickets: 50 INR for Indians and 300 INR for foreigners. Student’s concession for both Indians (30 INR) and foreigners (150 INR).
• Opening Timings: Open all days (10 AM – 4:30 PM).
• Duration: 1-1.5 hours.

About Junagarh Fort

Junagarh Fort was constructed in the year 1593 by Raja Rai Singh. It is believed that crocodiles were bred in the water moat surrounding the formidable fort. The construction is a fine blend of Mughal, Gujarati and Rajput style of architecture. The picturesque courtyards beautify the fort. The amazing architecture inside the fort inspires you. Some of the attractions inside the fort are Anup Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Hawa Mahal, Dungar Mahal, Diwan-e-khas and Ganga Mahal.

Things to Do around Junagarh Fort

• Visit the fort’s museum.
• Have a tour of the armoury section.

2. Lalgarh Palace

• Tickets: 25 INR per person (museum).
• Opening Timings: Museum open all days except Sunday (10 AM – 5 PM).
• Duration: 1 hour.

About Lalgarh Palace

Lalgarh Palace was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in the year 1902 in memory of his father Maharaja Lal Singh Ji. The red sandstone construction is a stupendous example of the architectural brilliance of the past. Mughal, Rajput and European architectures blend excellently well. The massive lawns houses peacocks, which are a sight to watch when they dance. You could find library, cards room and billiards room among various other rooms. Lalgarh Palace is a feast to your eyes and architects’ delight. Most of the palace apart from the museum is not accessible to the public as this palace has been converted to a luxury hotel.

Things to Do around Lalgarh Palace

• Visit The Shri Sadul Museum.
• Take a look at the fourth largest private library in the world.
• A visit to Laxmi Niwas Palace luxury hotel, if you have money to splurge.

3. National Research Centre on Camel

• Famous for: Animals, Photography, Research.
• Tickets: 30 INR for Indians and 100 INR for foreigners. Still camera charges are 50 INR and no videography is allowed.
• Opening Timings: Open all days (3 PM – 6 PM).

About National Research Centre on Camel

A unique research centre devoted entirely to camels of over four breeds, National Research Centre on Camel is a must visit to observe camels in their best habitat. There are over 400 camels of over four breeds and they also include baby camels. Bikaner is well known for its camel population since the British, who used camels from Bikaner during WWI for their army. This is also a well known breeding ground for camels.

Things to Do

• Sample food made from camel milk like ice creams.
• Shop for souvenirs.
• Go for camel riding.

4. Shri Laxminath Temple

• Famous for: Pilgrimage , History, Architecture, Photography.
• Tickets: No entry fee.
• Opening Timings: Open all days (5AM to 1PM & 5 PM to 11PM).
• Duration: 45 min.

About Shri Laxminath Temple

Established around 1526 by Maharaja Lunkaran of Bikaner, Shri Laxminath Temple is one of the oldest temples around Bikaner. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi who are considered to be the main deities of Bikaner. It is built from white marble and red sandstone from Jaisalmer and is also beautifully decorated with many beautiful paintings and sculptures. Also, the doorway has some intricate handiwork done in silver.

Things to Do Near Laxminath Temple

• Visit the Junagarh Fort.
• Have a look at the Bhandasar Jain Temple.

5. Ganga Singh Museum

• Famous for: History, Architecture, Culture.
• Tickets: 3 INR per person.
• Opening Timings: Open all days except Fridays and govt. holidays (10 AM – 4:30 PM).
• Duration: 30 to 45 min.

About Ganga Singh Museum

Ganga Singh Museum was founded by Maharaja Ganga Singh in the year 1937. It houses articles of historical importance that go to show that the society was civilized even before the emergence of Harappan civilization. Some of the stunning collections include paintings, pottery, weapons used by Rajputs and a lot more. The paintings on golf leaves are excellent.

Things to Do Near Ganga Singh Museum

• Visit nearby attractions like Lalgarh Palace.
• Sample some Rajasthani cuisines.

6. Sadul Singh Museum

• Tickets: 10 INR for Indians and 20 INR for foreigners.
• Opening Timings: Open all weekdays (10 AM – 5 PM).
• Duration: 45 min to 1 hour.

About Sadul Singh Museum

Sadul Singh Museum is on the first floor of Lalgarh palace. The lives and the passions of the three successive kings of Bikaner are reflected in the art museum. The rare artifacts, Georgian paintings, and the photographs seen here stand proof of the interests and the heroics of the three kings namely Maharaja Ganga Singh, Sadul Singh and Karni Singh.

Things to Do Near Sadul Singh Museum

• Go shopping at the nearby bazaars.
• Camel Riding.

7. Jain Temple

• Famous for: Pilgrimage, History, Architecture, Photography.
• Tickets: Free of entry.
• Opening Timings: Open all days.

About Jain Temple

Jain Temple was commissioned by Bhandasa Oswal in the year 1468 and completed in the year 1514. Rajputana architecture in its excellence is evident in the construction of this temple. The unique and intricately designed temple, sculpted pillars, frescos and the gold leaf work inspire the visitor. With a blend of red sandstone and white marble used in the construction, the three-storied Jain Temple stands unique and commands admiration. The mirror work in the temple is unique as well.

Things to Do Near Jain Temple

• Sample some cuisines in the nearby restaurants.

Some other attractions around the city include, Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary , Gajner Palace , Camel Safari Day Tours , Karni Mata Temple , Prachina Museum and Bhatton Ka Chowk.

Popular Places to Visit Near Bikaner

A visit to Bikaner would be incomplete without paying a visit to its nearby places. So plan ahead and keep enough time in your itinerary for a day trip to these tourist attractions near Bikaner :

1. Deshnoke

• Distance from Bikaner: 45 min (30.5 km).

Deshnoke is perhaps the most famous for its Karni Mata Temple where rats are worshipped. This 600 year old temple is the subject of a famous legend and is an important pilgrimage site for many. The rats here are revered and draw many devotees from different parts of India. Many western tourists also heavily visit to observe the uniqueness of this temple. Navratri is an important festival celebrated here most devotees visit during this time.

• Distance from Bikaner: 2 hr 17 min (114 km).

A city that finds mention in the Mahabharata, Nagaur is also the home of India’s largest salt lake, Sambhar Lake. There are a lot important attractions around this place like Nagaur fort, built in the second century and Ladnun, an important Jainism centre. Kuchaman Fort, located two hours away is an important tourist destination and has being the setting of Bollywood films like Drona.

• Distance from Bikaner: 2 h 45 min (155 km).

Also located in the vicinity of Jodhpur, Khimsar is located in the Thar desert. Though Khimsar Fort is the most important attraction here, its location makes it ideal for many other activities. Visitors can have a desert safari or go desert camping.

• Distance from Bikaner: 2 hr 56 min (179 km).

The home of Salasar Balaji, Salasar is an important pilgrimage site. It also has many famous temples along the circuit it is located like Khatushyamji and Rani Sati Temple. Throngs of devotees come here daily with the temple pulling huge crowds on Chaitra Purnima and Ashvin Purnima.

• Distance from Bikaner: 3 hr (181 km).

The gateway to Thar Desert, Churu is a region filled with grand havelis, beautiful fresco paintings and some really fine chhatris. Kothari and Surana Havelis and Sethani Ka Johara some of the best examples of Shekhawati architecture. A visit to them is a must for everyone who loves architecture and history. Tal Chhappar Sanctuary is also worth a visit for wildlife enthusiasts.

Once you visit the tourist places in Bikaner , you are sure to be impressed by the cultural richness of the city. The ancient city has not lost its association with the past and it preserves until now the grandeur of the past by maintaining the ancient forts and monuments. This shows that the people of Bikaner, which is Rajasthan’s fifth biggest state honor and value the history of the region. The splendid constructions and the artwork are sure to impress you on your stay. Take up rides on camel to do justice to your stay in the camel country. To explore more about tourist places in Rajasthan, please visit: places to visit in Rajasthan .

More Tourist Destinations In Rajasthan:

• Top Attractions In Pushkar
• Top Attractions In Jaisalmer
• Top Attractions In Ranthambore

About Rohit

4 thoughts on “Best 7 Tourist Attractions In Bikaner”

Interested to visit Foreign Countries where no vis is required.

Great List of Tourist Places in Bikaner. I thinks you should have added Karni Mata Temple too in the list. Since it’s one of the most unique temples of Rajasthan.

Great and Thanks for the informational content. It helped me a lot to plan my trip to the Bikaner. Keep up the good work.

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• Junagarh Fort
• Lalgarh Palace
• National Research Centre on Camel
• Shri Laxminath Temple
• Ganga Singh Museum
• Sadul Singh Museum
• Jain Temple
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• Sawai Madhopur
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BIKANER TOURISM | TOURIST PLACES TO VISIT & TRAVEL GUIDE TO BIKANER

• Bikaner Overview
• Top 15 Places to Visit in Bikaner
• 2 Best Bikaner Tour Packages
• Top Resorts in Bikaner
• Best Time to Visit Bikaner

How to Reach Bikaner

• Bikaner Tour Plans
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About Bikaner

Country: india | state: rajasthan, #6 of 12 places to visit in rajasthan | #84 of 100 places to visit in india, ideal trip duration: 1-2 days, base station: bikaner, nearest city to bikaner: jodhpur (245 kms), best time to visit bikaner: october to march, peak season: december to february, bikaner weather: summer: maximum - 44°c and minimum - 21°c winter: maximum - 23°c and minimum - 5°c.

At a distance of 245 km from Jodhpur, 262 km from Ajmer, 329 km from Jaisalmer, 333 km from Jaipur, 435 km from Delhi, 502 km from Udaipur, 539 km from Chandigarh, and 577 km from Agra, Bikaner is a vibrant desert town in the middle of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, India. Bikaner city is the administrative headquarters of Bikaner district and also one of the Rajasthan tourist places . Bikaner is one of the popular heritage destinations in India , and among the famous places to visit near Delhi . Formerly the capital of the princely state of Bikaner, the city was founded by Rao Bika in 1486 CE when his father Rao Jodha, the illustrious founder of Jodhpur challenged him to establish his own kingdom. Rao Bika travelled far and when he came upon the wilderness called Jangladesh, he decided to set up his own kingdom and transformed it into an impressive city. Modern Bikaner is the result of the foresight of its most eminent ruler, Maharaja Ganga Singh (1887-1943), whose reformative zeal set the pace for Bikaner's transformation from a principality to a premier princely state. The strategic location of Bikaner on the ancient caravan routes headed to Central Asia made it a prime trade center in medieval times. Bikaner is one of the most frequented desert cities of the state of Rajasthan along with Jodhpur and Jaisalmer tour packages . Bikaner stands on a slightly raised ground and is circumscribed by a seven km long embattled wall with five gates. The town is known for its rich Rajput culture and has some of the most beautiful forts, and palaces. The Junagarh Fort, built during the reign of Raja Rai Singh, is the most famous fort in Bikaner and is one of the must include places in Bikaner tour packages . The Laxmi Niwas Palace, Lalgarh Palace, Gajner Palace are some of the other palaces in Bikaner which add to the beauty of the town and gives it a feel of the Rajput heritage. Karni Mata Temple, Bhandasar Jain Temple, Ganga Singh Museum, Rampuria Haveli, National Research Centre on Camel, Shri Laxminath Temple, Prachina Museum, Kodamdesar Temple, and Shiv Bari Temple are the other popular places to visit in Bikaner . Bikaner is famous for its savory Bikaneri Bhujia. It is also known for its handicrafts, leather articles, and for having the biggest camel farm in Asia. Bikaner is also a center for usta art. Usta art is characterized by miniature paintings and gold embossing done on ceilings, pillars, walls, marble, wooden and glasswares, and ivory. Also known as camel country as Bikaner is extremely popular for its camel rides. Many of the holiday resorts and luxury hotels in Bikaner organize camel safaris, jeep safaris, night safaris, and desert camps which allows tourists to get a taste of life in the desert. There are many fairs and festivals are celebrated in Bikaner. One of the most famous festivals of Bikaner is the Camel Festival held in January which is organized by the Rajasthan Department of Tourism, Art and Culture. During this festival, hordes of camels are brought out and are decorated in the most colorful way possible. Thousands of people throng this place to be a part of the festivities which include camel racing, dances by camels, and bumpy camel rides. Jodhpur Airport is the nearest airport which is about 248 km from Bikaner. The airport is served by flights from Delhi and Mumbai. Bikaner Junction is well connected by rail with Ahmedabad, Jammu Tawi, Jaipur, New Delhi, Mumbai, Jodhpur, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Trichy, Guwahati, Bangalore, Haridwar, Coimbatore, Sri Ganganagar, Chennai, Jaisalmer, and Puri. There are also many bus services from Bikaner to major cities like Jodhpur, Udaipur, Delhi, Jaisalmer, Jaipur, Ajmer, Ahmedabad, and Kota. Being a desert town, the city experiences extreme weather with very hot summers and chilly winters. October to March is the best time while December to February is the peak season to visit Bikaner.

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Nearest Airport: Jodhpur - Jodhpur Airport (248 Kms)

Direct flights to jodhpur, nearest train station: bikaner junction (0 kms), direct trains to bikaner, nearest bus station: bikaner bus stand (6.5 kms), direct buses to bikaner, distance chart, distance chart & driving directions to bikaner, top 10 places to visit in bikaner, junagarh fort.

#1 of 15 Places to Visit in Bikaner

At a distance of 2 km from Bikaner Junction Railway Station, Junagarh Fort is a historical fort situated in the Bikaner town of Rajasthan, India. It is one of the well-preserved forts in India and among famous historical places near Delhi . Junagarh Fort is one of the famous monuments of Bikaner that draws the attention of tourists as part of Bikaner holiday packages . Originally called Chintamani, the fort was renamed Junagarh or 'Old Fort' in the early 20th century when the ruling family moved to Lalgarh Palace outside the fort limits. The modern city of Bikaner has developed around the fort. Junagarh Fort was originally built by Raja Rai Singh, the 6th ruler of Bikaner, between 1589 & 1593 AD. Several additions were done by many kings, which have resulted in many palaces, museums, temples, and gardens. This fort is attacked several times but never been conquered. .....

Lalgarh Palace & Museum

#2 of 15 Places to Visit in Bikaner

At a distance of 5 km from Bikaner Fort and 4 km from Bikaner Junction Railway Station, Lalgarh Palace is a royal palace situated in Bikaner. It is one of the few palaces commissioned by the British for the Indian kings and also one of the top Bikaner places to visit . Standing amidst the regal grandeur and conveying the glorious tales of royalty, the Lalgarh Palace in Bikaner is one of the most imposing palaces in the history of Rajasthan. The palace was built for Maharaja Ganga Singh by the British architect Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob between 1902 and 1926 CE. The Lalgarh Palace is a classic example of Indian, European, and Mughal architecture. The three-storey complex is built with red sandstone extracted from the Thar Desert. The royal family of Bikaner still lives in the palace and has one part for themselves. The palace has a beautiful portico and features many overhanging balconies and latticework. .....

Bhandasar Jain Temple

#3 of 15 Places to Visit in Bikaner

At a distance of 2.5 km from Bikaner Junction, Bhandasar Jain Temple is an ancient temple situated in Bikaner town of Rajasthan. It is one of the top places of pilgrimage in Bikaner and also one among the most enchanting Bikaner tourist attractions. Bhandasar Jain Temple was constructed by Bhandasa Oswal, a Jain merchant in the year 1468 AD and was completed after his death in 1514 AD. The temple is dedicated to Sumatinath, the fifth Tirthankar. It is believed that the temple was made with 40,000 kilograms of ghee instead of mortar, which locals insist oozes through the walls on hot days. Bhandasar Jain Temple reflects the grandeur of Rajputana architecture. This three storeyed temple is built of red sandstone and is mainly famous for wall paintings and usta art. The temple is known for its gold-leaf work and artistically sculpted pillars. The pillars of the temple have floral designs. The Bhandasar Jain Temple is decorated with beautiful frescoes that narrate the story of .....

Laxmi Niwas Palace

#4 of 15 Places to Visit in Bikaner

At a distance of 5 km from Bikaner Junction Railway Station, Laxmi Niwas Palace is a heritage building situated in the Lalgarh Palace complex of Bikaner, Rajasthan. It is one of the beautiful royal palaces of Rajasthan and also one of the top heritage places to visit in Bikaner. The Laxmi Niwas Palace was the former residential palace of the king of Bikaner, Maharaja Ganga Singh. Built between 1898 and 1902 CE, Laxmi Niwas Palace was commissioned by Maharaja Sir Ganga Singh and was designed by Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob. The Maharaja of Bikaner was also motivated to build the palace as a means to stimulate employment in the region. Upon its completion, plans were made to expand the estate into the much larger Lalgarh Palace which was constructed between 1902 and 1926 CE. Laxmi Niwas Palace is constructed in Indo-Saracenic style, an architectural movement popularized in the 19th century in British India. The palace was constructed using pink sandstone, brought from the stone .....

Ganga Singh Museum

#5 of 15 Places to Visit in Bikaner

At a distance of 1.5 km from Junagarh Fort and 3 km from Bikaner Junction Railway Station, the Ganga Singh Museum is one of the most significant museums situated in Bikaner. This is the best museum in the state of Rajasthan and also one of the must visit places of sightseeing in Bikaner. Established in 1937 AD by Maharaja Ganga Singh, the Ganga Singh Museum showcases an extensive array of articles, hunting trophies and archaeological specimens. These specimens are belonged to the Harappan age and the early part of the Gupta period. According to the archaeologists, these articles throw light on a number of dark areas of the history of India. Ganga Singh Museum is housed close to the Lalgarh Palace since 1937 but later transferred to Civil Lines in 1954 and administered by the Rajasthan Government. The first level of the museum is adorned with portraits of the Maharajas of Bikaner and several English dignitaries. The second level of the museum houses artifacts and crafts of .....

Rampuria Group Of Havelis

#6 of 15 Places to Visit in Bikaner

At a distance of 2 km from Bikaner Junction Railway Station, Rampuria Havelis are a group of havelis situated in Bikaner, Rajasthan. Rampuria Group of Havelis is one of the famous heritage sites in Bikaner and also one among the top Bikaner tourist places. The Rampuria Group of Havelis is among the well-known Havelis of Bikaner and is known for more than 400 years old architectural splendor. These havelis were constructed by Balujee Chalva under the orders of a rich merchant Rampuria family. The construction of the havelis is said to be initiated from 15th century onwards. The Rampuria merchants are said to go in foreign lands for 9 months of a year and spend rest of the months in cherishing their wealth by decorating their mansions and enjoying at home. The Rampuria Group of Havelis is constructed of Dulmera red sandstone as the crucial base material. This popular tourist place is adorned with excellent and exquisite handiwork prevalent during the 15th century. Most of the .....

Desert Camel Safari

#7 of 15 Places to Visit in Bikaner

Desert Safari in Bikaner is a bumpy ride which one should experience at least once in a lifetime. Safari on Thar Desert is diversified with many species of lizards, snakes, dears, Great Indian Bustard, Blackbuck, and Indian Gazelle. There are many operators to organise Desert Camel Safari and Jeep Safari in Bikaner. One can encounter the lifestyles, culture, forts, castles, cuisine, desert safaris, customs, mysteries, stories, etc. Camel Safari takes the travellers to a different world where the landscape is not green, but stunning and it is an adventure of a different kind altogether. The sunset is beautiful and words will not be enough to describe its picturesque setting. Tourist can enjoy live music and folk dance amidst the huge dessert. Camel Safari for 2 Hours: Rs. 1200 per person without Transport, Rs. 1500 per person with transport, Rs. 2000 per person with transport & dinner Camel Safari for Full Day: Rs. 3100 per person with sunset, transport & all meals, Rs. .....

Gajner Palace & Lake

#8 of 15 Places to Visit in Bikaner

At a distance of 34 km from Bikaner, Gajner Palace is a hunting lodge of Bikaner rulers situated on the banks of Gajner Lake, Bikaner. Situated in the middle of Thar Desert, Gajner Palace is among the top tourist places in Rajasthan and also one of the top places to visit in Bikaner. The Gajner Palace was primarily built as a hunting resort during the days of the British Raj by erstwhile ruler of the Bikaner, Maharaja Ganga Singh Ji. The royal mansion has hosted several dignitaries, including the Prince of Wales in 1905, Governor General Lord Elgin, Lord Erwin in 1927 and also Lord Mountbatten when he was Viceroy of India. The Imperial Sand Grouse shooting at the Palace during the Christmas season was the most sought after invitation in the Indian social calendar. Sprawls over 6000 acres, Gajner Palace is a heritage property which features a lush green garden. It was built in red sandstone and is a perfect illustration of craftsmanship. .....

Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary

#9 of 15 Places to Visit in Bikaner

At a distance of 37 km from Bikaner, Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary in Bikaner is a natural haven on the shores of a Gajner Lake, near Gajner Palace. It is one of the famous wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan and among the must include places in Bikaner trip . Nestled atop a small hill, Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary is an oasis and reserve enriched in flora and fauna with dense green forest cover. The sanctuary was earlier used as a hunting ground by Maharaja Sri Ganga Singh of Bikaner. There is a beautiful lake in the sanctuary, which apart from complementing the beauty is used by the animals living here to quench their thirst. This is one of the proposed forests for Cheetah reintroduction in India. A trip to this wildlife heaven is one of the top things to do in Bikaner . The lake at Gajner attracts water .....

Karni Mata Temple - Deshnok

#10 of 15 Places to Visit in Bikaner

At a distance of 30 km from Bikaner Junction Railway Station, Karni Mata Temple is a Hindu temple situated at Deshnok town in the Bikaner district of Rajasthan. It is one of the top places of pilgrimage in Rajasthan , and also one of the top Bikaner tourist places . Karni Mata Temple at Deshnok is dedicated to Karni Mata, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. Also known as the Rat Temple, the temple is a renowned center for rat worship and draws many visitors every day as part of Bikaner sightseeing packages . This 600 years old temple is home to thousands of black, grey, and white rats or Kaba. As per folklore, feeding rats at this temple brings good fortune. According to the local belief, the rats would reincarnate as holy men. The temple is carved from stones and marble, which features silver gates .....

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Nearly 44 million Americans to travel for Memorial Day weekend

Aaa forecasts a near-record travel weekend over the memorial day holiday period that is above pre-pandemic numbers..

Where are the top 10 travel destinations in the US and across the globe for Memorial Day

AAA said this will be a busy Memorial Day Holiday on the roads and in the skies. They took a look at travel reservations to see where the top 10 destinations for travel were this year, in the U.S. and around the world.

Get ready for a busy holiday on the roads and in the skies over Memorial Day weekend . AAA forecasts that 43.8 million Americans will travel 50 or more miles from home.

"We haven’t seen Memorial Day weekend travel numbers like these in almost 20 years," said Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA Travel, in a statement. "We’re projecting an additional one million travelers this holiday weekend compared to 2019, which not only means we’re exceeding pre-pandemic levels but also signals a very busy summer travel season ahead."  

AAA considers the Memorial Day weekend to run from Thursday to Monday.

TOP 5 BEST NATIONAL PARKS TO VISIT WITH KIDS

This will be the second most traveled Memorial Day since recordkeeping started in 2000. Memorial Day 2005 holds the record with 44 million travelers, just 200,000 more vacationers than this year. 

Almost 90% of us will drive, a record 38.4 million people. AAA said it expects similar gas prices to last year.

The agency also expects airline prices to be similar to 2023. Analysts found only a 1-2% increase in ticket prices. The expected 3.64 million people to take to the sky is just under the record airport travel numbers from Memorial Day 2005.

HERE ARE THE BEST NATIONAL PARKS TO SPOT BALD EAGLES

FILE - Flight attendants hand out refreshments to a packed Delta Airlines flight traveling from Ronald Reagan National Airport to Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport on Friday, May 21, 2021.

(Kent Nishimura / FOX Weather)

Where are Americans headed?

AAA crunched their booking numbers to find out the top travel destinations for the holiday. Theme parks, entertainment venues, beaches , cruise ports and European cities were the common themes.

DO NEW FEDERAL REFUND RULES FOR AIRLINES COVER WEATHER DELAYS?

Find out the weather before your vacation

With the FOX Weather app , you can enter your vacation dates and places to get updated forecasts nearly a year in advance.

How to FOX Weather: FOX FutureView for event planning and tracking

FOX Weather meteorologist Nick Kosir shows you how you can use FutureView in the FOX Weather app to plan all your future events.

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Solar Storm Intensifies, Filling Skies With Northern Lights

Officials warned of potential blackouts or interference with navigation and communication systems this weekend, as well as auroras as far south as Southern California or Texas.

By Katrina Miller and Judson Jones

Katrina Miller reports on space and astronomy and Judson Jones is a meteorologist.

A dramatic blast from the sun set off the highest-level geomagnetic storm in Earth’s atmosphere on Friday that is expected to make the northern lights visible as far south as Florida and Southern California and could interfere with power grids, communications and navigations system.

It is the strongest such storm to reach Earth since Halloween of 2003. That one was strong enough to create power outages in Sweden and damage transformers in South Africa.

The effects could continue through the weekend as a steady stream of emissions from the sun continues to bombard the planet’s magnetic field.

The solar activity is so powerful that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which monitors space weather, issued an unusual storm watch for the first time in 19 years, which was then upgraded to a warning. The agency began observing outbursts on the sun’s surface on Wednesday, with at least five heading in the direction of Earth.

“What we’re expecting over the next couple of days should be more significant than what we’ve seen certainly so far,” Mike Bettwy, the operations chief at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, said at a news conference on Friday morning.

For people in many places, the most visible part of the storm will be the northern lights, known also as auroras. But authorities and companies will also be on the lookout for the event’s effects on infrastructure, like global positioning systems, radio communications and even electrical power.

While the northern lights are most often seen in higher latitudes closer to the North Pole, people in many more parts of the world are already getting a show this weekend that could last through the early part of next week.

As Friday turned to Saturday in Europe, people across the continent described skies hued in a mottling of colors.

Alfredo Carpineti , an astrophysicist, journalist and author in North London, saw them with his husband from the rooftop of their apartment building.

“It is incredible to be able to see the aurora directly from one’s own backyard,” he said. “I was hoping to maybe catch a glimpse of green on the horizon, but it was all across the sky in both green and purple.”

Here’s what you need to know about this weekend’s solar event.

How will the storm affect people on Earth?

A geomagnetic storm watch or warning indicates that space weather may affect critical infrastructure on or orbiting near Earth. It may introduce additional current into systems, which could damage pipelines, railroad tracks and power lines.

According to Joe Llama, an astronomer at Lowell Observatory, communications that rely on high frequency radio waves, such as ham radio and commercial aviation , are most likely to suffer. That means it is unlikely that your cellphone or car radio, which depend on much higher frequency radio waves, will conk out.

Still, it is possible for blackouts to occur. As with any power outage, you can prepare by keeping your devices charged and having access to backup batteries, generators and radio.

The most notable solar storm recorded in history occurred in 1859. Known as the Carrington Event, it lasted for nearly a week, creating aurora that stretched down to Hawaii and Central America and impacting hundreds of thousands of miles of telegraph lines.

But that was technology of the 19th century, used before scientists fully understood how solar activity disrupted Earth’s atmosphere and communication systems.

“That was an extreme level event,” said Shawn Dahl, a forecaster at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center. “We are not anticipating that.”

Unlike tornado watches and warnings, the target audience for NOAA’s announcements is not the public.

“For most people here on planet Earth, they won’t have to do anything,” said Rob Steenburgh, a space scientist at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center.

The goal of the announcements is to give agencies and companies that operate this infrastructure time to put protection measures in place to mitigate any effects.

“If everything is working like it should, the grid will be stable and they’ll be able to go about their daily lives,” Mr. Steenburgh said.

Will I be able to see the northern lights?

It is possible that the northern lights may grace the skies this week over places that don’t usually see them. The best visibility is outside the bright lights of cities.

Clouds or stormy weather could pose a problem in some places. But if the skies are clear, even well south of where the aurora is forecast to take place, snap a picture or record a video with your cellphone. The sensor on the camera is more sensitive to the wavelengths produced by the aurora and may produce an image you can’t see with the naked eye.

Another opportunity could be viewing sunspots during the daytime, if your skies are clear. As always, do not look directly at the sun without protection. But if you still have your eclipse glasses lying around from the April 8 event, you may try to use them to try to spot the cluster of sunspots causing the activity.

How strong is the current geomagnetic storm?

Giant explosions on the surface of the sun, known as coronal mass ejections, send streams of energetic particles into space. But the sun is large, and such outbursts may not cross our planet as it travels around the star. But when these particles create a disturbance in Earth’s magnetic field, it is known as a geomagnetic storm.

NOAA classifies these storms on a “G” scale of 1 to 5, with G1 being minor and G5 being extreme. The most extreme storms can cause widespread blackouts and damage to infrastructure on Earth. Satellites may also have trouble orienting themselves or sending or receiving information during these events.

The current storm is classified as G5, or “extreme.” It is caused by a cluster of sunspots — dark, cool regions on the solar surface — that is about 16 times the diameter of Earth. The cluster is flaring and ejecting material every six to 12 hours.

“We anticipate that we’re going to get one shock after another through the weekend,” said Brent Gordon, chief of the space weather services branch at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center.

Why is this happening now?

The sun’s activity ebbs and flows on an 11-year cycle, and right now, it is approaching a solar maximum. Three other severe geomagnetic storms have been observed so far in the current activity cycle, which began in December 2019, but none were predicted to cause effects strong enough on Earth to warrant a watch or warning announcement.

The cluster of sunspots generating the current storm is the largest seen in this solar cycle, NOAA officials said. They added that the activity in this cycle has outperformed initial predictions .

More flares and expulsions from this cluster are expected, but because of the sun’s rotation the cluster will be oriented in a position less likely to affect Earth. In the coming weeks, the sunspots may appear again on the left side of the sun, but it is difficult for scientists to predict whether this will cause another bout of activity.

“Usually, these don’t come around packing as much of a punch as they did originally,” Mr. Dahl said. “But time will tell on that.”

Jonathan O’Callaghan contributed reporting from London.

An earlier version of this article misstated the radio frequencies used by cellphones and car radios. They are higher frequencies, not low.

How we handle corrections

Katrina Miller is a science reporting fellow for The Times. She recently earned her Ph.D. in particle physics from the University of Chicago. More about Katrina Miller

Judson Jones is a meteorologist and reporter for The Times who forecasts and covers extreme weather. More about Judson Jones

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A dramatic blast from the sun  set off the highest-level geomagnetic storm in Earth’s atmosphere, making the northern lights visible around the world .

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