Bikaner, a vibrant gem in the heart of Rajasthan, is a city where the golden sands of the Thar Desert meet the grandeur of royal heritage. Known for its majestic forts, palaces, and temples, Bikaner offers a captivating blend of history and culture. The magnificent Junagarh Fort, with its intricate architecture and rich history, stands as a testament to the city’s royal past, while the Karni Mata Temple, also known as the Temple of Rats, adds a unique spiritual charm. The bustling streets of Bikaner are filled with colourful bazaars, offering traditional handicrafts, textiles, and the famous Bikaneri bhujia. The city’s palaces, such as the Lalgarh Palace, are reminiscent of its royal Rajput roots, offering a glimpse into the opulence and splendor of a bygone era. In Bikaner, the desert isn’t just a barren landscape but a place alive with stories of valor, royalty, and resilience, making it an enchanting destination for travelers seeking to experience Rajasthan’s rich cultural tapestry.
1. Junagarh Fort
Junagarh Fort is one of the most renowned historical landmarks in Bikaner, Rajasthan, and is a true testament to the grandeur and architectural brilliance of the Rajput era. Unlike most forts in Rajasthan, which are perched on hills, Junagarh Fort is built on the plains, making it one of the few forts that are not located on elevated terrain. The fort was constructed in 1589 by Raja Rai Singh, a general in the Mughal army and a ruler of Bikaner, and it stands as a remarkable symbol of Rajput and Mughal architectural fusion.
Location : Junagarh Fort is located in the city of Bikaner, in the northern part of Rajasthan, India. The fort is situated on the plains, about 2 kilometers south of the city center, making it easily accessible for visitors.
Timing : Junagarh Fort in Bikaner is generally open to visitors at the following timings:
- Opening hours: 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM
- Closed on: The fort is open every day, including weekends, but may be closed on certain national holidays or for special events.
Entry Fee : The entry fee for Junagarh Fort in Bikaner is as follows (subject to change):
- For Indian visitors: ₹50
- For foreign tourists: ₹200
2. Lalgarh Palace
Lalgarh Palace is a stunning example of the grandeur and opulence of Rajasthan’s royal heritage, located in Bikaner, Rajasthan. Built between 1902 and 1926 by Maharaja Ganga Singh, the palace is an architectural masterpiece that reflects a blend of Rajput, Mughal, and European styles. The palace was designed by the British architect Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob and was intended as a royal residence for the Maharaja and his family.
Location : Lalgarh Palace is located on the outskirts of Bikaner, about 3-4 kilometers from the city center. It is easily accessible by road.
Timing : Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Closed on: The palace is typically open every day except for specific national holidays or maintenance days.
Entry Fee : For Indian visitors: ₹30
For foreign tourists: ₹100
3. Rampuria Haveli
Rampuria Haveli is one of the most notable and historically significant havelis (traditional Indian mansions) in Bikaner, Rajasthan. Known for its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and rich cultural heritage, the haveli stands as a testament to the grandeur of the wealthy merchants who once lived in Bikaner.
Location : Rampuria Haveli is located in the old city area of Bikaner, near the Kote Gate. It is a short distance from Junagarh Fort and other prominent attractions in Bikaner, making it easy to visit as part of a tour around the city.
Timing : The haveli is generally open for visitors from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Entry Fee : The entry fee for Rampuria Haveli in Bikaner is typically around:
- For Indian visitors: ₹20 to ₹30
- For foreign tourists: ₹50 to ₹100
4. ICAR-National Research Centre on Camel
ICAR-National Research Centre on Camel (NRC Camel) is a prestigious research institute located in Bikaner, Rajasthan, dedicated to the study and conservation of camels, also known as the “Ship of the Desert.” It is one of the few centers in the world focusing on the welfare, breeding, and sustainable utilization of camels.
Location : The ICAR-National Research Centre on Camel is located about 8 km from the city center of Bikaner, on the way to Jodhpur, in the Rajasthan desert region.
Timing : The center is typically open for visitors from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays.
Entry Fee : The entry fee for ICAR-National Research Centre on Camel (NRC Camel) in Bikaner is generally around:
- For Indian visitors: ₹30 to ₹50
- For foreign tourists: ₹100 to ₹200
5. Devi Kund Sagar
Devi Kund Sagar is a historical and picturesque cenotaph complex located about 8 kilometers from the city of Bikaner, Rajasthan. It is an important site known for its stunning architecture, serene ambiance, and royal significance. The complex is dedicated to the royal family of Bikaner and serves as the final resting place for several kings and queens of the Bikaner princely state.
Location : Devi Kund Sagar is located about 8 km southeast of Bikaner city, near the Jaisalmer Road. The site is easily accessible by road and is a popular stop for tourists exploring the historical sites of Bikaner.
Timing : Devi Kund Sagar is usually open for visitors from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Entry Fee : The entry fee for Indian visitors is generally around ₹30, and for foreign tourists, it may be ₹100 or slightly higher.
6. Ratan Bihari Temple
Ratan Bihari Temple is a well-known and revered Hindu temple located in the city of Bikaner, Rajasthan. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, this temple is a significant religious site for locals and visitors alike, known for its peaceful ambiance and historical importance.
Location : Ratan Bihari Temple is located in the heart of Bikaner, Rajasthan. Specifically, it is situated near the Kote Gate area, one of the main parts of the old city.
Timing : The temple is generally open from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Entry Fee : There is typically no entry fee to visit the temple, as it is a religious site open to all devotees.
7. Prachina Museum
Prachina Museum is a prominent museum located in Bikaner, Rajasthan. It is situated within the premises of the historic Lalgarh Palace, one of Bikaner’s most famous royal residences. The museum is dedicated to showcasing the royal heritage and rich culture of Bikaner and Rajasthan, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the royal lifestyle, art, and traditions of the region.
Location : Prachina Museum is located inside the Lalgarh Palace, which is about 3-4 kilometers from the city center of Bikaner.
- Address: Lalgarh Palace, Bikaner, Rajasthan, India.
Timing : Opening hours: Typically from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Closed on: It is generally open every day, but it’s a good idea to check for any changes during national holidays or maintenance days.
Entry Fee : For Indian visitors: ₹30 to ₹50
For foreign tourists: ₹100 to ₹150
Famous food in Bikaner
1. Gatte Ki Sabzi
Gatte ki Sabzi is a traditional and popular dish from Rajasthan, including the city of Bikaner. It is a flavorful curry made from gatte, which are steamed or boiled dumplings made from gram flour (besan), combined with a rich, spiced curry. The dish is a staple in Rajasthani homes and is often served with roti (flatbread) or rice.
Ingredients : gram flour , yogurt and species
2. Shahi Samosa
Shahi Samosa is a luxurious and rich version of the traditional samosa, which is a popular snack in Indian cuisine. Unlike the regular samosa, which typically has a filling of spiced potatoes or vegetables, the Shahi Samosa takes it up a notch by incorporating rich ingredients like minced meat, dry fruits, and cream. The dish is often associated with royal kitchens and is considered a more indulgent and gourmet version of the classic samosa.
Ingredients : minced meat , dry fruits and cream
3. Raj Kachori
Raj Kachori is a popular and extravagant variation of the traditional kachori found in Rajasthani cuisine. It’s a large, round, crispy fried dough shell, typically stuffed with a variety of fillings, and served with an array of flavourful toppings and chutneys. This dish is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, making it a favorite street food and festive snack in places like Jaipur, Bikaner, and Udaipur.
Ingredients : samolina , chickpeas and moong dal
4. Ker Sangri
Ker Sangri is a traditional and iconic dish from Rajasthan, especially popular in the desert regions like Bikaner and Jaisalmer. It is made from ker (a wild berry) and sangri (dried beans from a local plant), and the dish showcases the resourcefulness of Rajasthan’s desert cuisine, where ingredients are limited, and the use of local flora is essential for survival.
Ingredients : ker , sangri and species
5. Dal Baati Churma
Dal Baati Churma is one of the most iconic and beloved dishes from Rajasthan, and it is a perfect representation of the region’s rich culinary traditions. It’s a wholesome, flavorful meal consisting of three key components: dal (lentils), baati (baked wheat balls), and churma (a sweet, crumbly mixture), all of which come together to form a delicious and balanced dish.
Ingredients : wheat flour , moong dal and toor dal
