The majestic Junagarh Fort

Discover the majestic Junagarh Fort, a 16th-century marvel at the heart of Bikaner's royal legacy. Built by Raja Rai Singh, a trusted general of Emperor Akbar, this rose-red sandstone fortress once housed the city's rulers. The fort's stunning architecture captivates you with its intricate carvings, beautiful balconies, and formidable ramparts. Inside the fort, you can explore opulent palaces adorned with exquisite Rajasthani art.

History comes alive in the fort's museum, showcasing an impressive collection of artefacts. From ornate palanquins and mediaeval weaponry to captivating paintings, each item tells a story of Bikaner's past. The unexpected highlight? A restored World War I aeroplane. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, history buff or a curious traveller, Junagarh Fort offers an unforgettable journey through time, promising a glimpse into the grandeur of Rajasthan's royal past.

Bikaner beyond the grand fortress

Beyond the majestic Junagarh Fort, Bikaner offers even more treasures for history and culture enthusiasts. A must-visit destination is the captivating Sadhul Museum, nestled within the grand Lallgarh Palace, where the royal family still resides. Marvel at the royal railway coach displayed at the entrance, once used for regal journeys. Inside, explore the family's legacy through a captivating collection of images, paintings, and artefacts.

If you want to explore Bikaner's architectural marvels, the Rampuria Havelis in Old Bikaner are an absolute delight. This protected area showcases the pinnacle of Rajasthani craftsmanship with its intricately carved walls, serene open courtyards, and magnificent red sandstone structures. The beautiful jharokhas (overhanging enclosed balconies) offer a glimpse into the artistic brilliance of a bygone era.

Journey back in time at the Seth Bhandasar Jain Temple, built in 1428 before Bikaner's founding. This architectural gem, maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India, dazzles you with its spectacular paintings. Pay respects at the Devikund Sagar Cenotaphs, commemorating Bikaner's royalty. These monuments feature intricate carvings of Lord Krishna and Chhatris, blending Rajput and Mughal styles.

For a unique experience, visit the National Research Centre on Camel (NRCC), dedicated to the study and conservation of these desert icons. Spiritual seekers will find solace in Bikaner's temples. The Shri Laxminath temple impresses with its opulent interiors, while the 500-year-old Shree Karni Mata Temple also known as the Rat Temple offers a fascinating glimpse into local beliefs surrounding reincarnation.

Nearby wildlife sanctuaries and reserves, such as the Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary and Tal Chhapar Sanctuary, are now accessible. Also, visit Khimsar, a village in the Thar Desert, renowned for its mesmerising dunes, providing visitors with a chance to immerse themselves in the stunning desert landscape.

Celebrate with colour

Bikaner's vibrant festivals include the Camel Festival, showcasing the significance of camels in the region's culture and heritage, and the Kolayat Fair, held at Kolayat, about 50 kilometres from Bikaner. The fair is organised between October and November during the Kartik Purnima. Pilgrims take a holy dip in the Kolayat Lake and offer prayers at the temples.

Other important festivals in Bikaner include the Gangaur Festival, which is an 18-day-long festival when women pray to the Goddess Parvati, and the Sheetla Ashtami, which is dedicated to Sheetla Mata, the goddess of smallpox and other infectious diseases. Karni Mata Fair is celebrated in honour of Karni Mata, a Hindu sage worshipped as the incarnation of Goddess Durga.

From fine dining to street food

Exploring Bikaner is a visual as well as sensory feast showcasing the rich culture and traditions of the region. The city offers a range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets, including heritage hotels, luxury resorts, boutique guesthouses, and budget-friendly lodgings.

Bikaner's culinary scene is a symphony of flavours that tantalise the taste buds with every bite. Bikaner is renowned for its delicacies, including Bikaneri Bhujia, Raj Kachori, samosa and kachori. For meals, try authentic Rajasthani Thali, with options from Laxmi Niwas Palace to budget restaurants. Sweet dishes include Ghewar, Kesar kulfi and Rasgulla.

Bikaner offers a vibrant shopping experience with a variety of markets and stores selling local handicrafts, spices and sweets. Bada Bazaar and Kote Gate markets are popular for textiles and jewellery, while Kote Gate market specialises in leather goods. Visit Kote Gate Handicrafts Emporium, a renowned marketplace featuring local artisans' handicrafts and Khari Bazaar for aromatic spice shops.

Bikaner's locals are known for their hospitality and friendliness, often welcoming visitors warmly and eager to share their culture, traditions, and local insights.

Experience Bikaner at its best

Embrace the magic of Bikaner from October to March, when the city unveils its most enchanting face. This golden period offers the perfect climate to indulge in the Rajasthani culture and history. Winter evenings in Bikaner are particularly special. As the sun sets, the desert air takes on a refreshing chill, ideal for savouring local delicacies at outdoor cafes or enjoying cultural performances under starlit skies. If you seek authentic desert experiences, this season presents optimal conditions for camel safaris and camping adventures in the nearby Thar Desert. Plan your visit to this extraordinary city of Rajasthan and experience the warmth, hospitality, and timeless charm at its finest.