Bikaner!
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india-guide.in
Population
0.65 million
Best Time
October to March
Time Needed
2-3 days minimum
Currency
Rupee (₹)
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Bikaner, a desert city in Rajasthan, is known for its magnificent Junagarh Fort, vibrant culture, and delicious snacks like bhujia. It offers a unique blend of historical grandeur and desert charm.
Bikaner offers a glimpse into Rajasthan's rich heritage and is less crowded than other major tourist cities. However, the desert climate can be harsh, and infrastructure is not as developed as in larger cities. Be prepared for dust and heat.
Plan for at least two to three days to explore the major attractions and experience the local culture. Getting around is mainly by auto-rickshaw or taxi. The city is well-connected by train and bus.
October to March
12-30 degrees C
Pleasant and dry weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Days are sunny, and nights are cool.
Why Visit:
The weather is perfect for exploring forts, palaces, and enjoying desert safaris. The annual Camel Festival in January is a major highlight. It's the best time for comfortable travel and cultural immersion.
Tip: This is peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. Book accommodations and tours in advance.
July to September
30-38 degrees C
Hot and humid with occasional monsoon showers. The landscape turns greener.
Why Visit:
You can find fewer crowds and lower prices. The monsoon showers bring temporary relief from the heat, but humidity can be high.
Tip: Some outdoor activities might be restricted due to the rain. Check the weather forecast before planning.
April to June
35-45 degrees C
Extremely hot and dry with scorching winds. Conditions can be unbearable for outdoor activities.
Why Avoid:
Avoid visiting during these months due to the intense heat. It's difficult to enjoy sightseeing and outdoor activities in such extreme conditions.
Note: If you must travel during this time, stay indoors during the day and ensure access to air conditioning.
Junagarh Fort
Junagarh Fort is a well-preserved fort showcasing a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. It was built in the late 16th century by Raja Rai Singh.
Explore the various palaces, courtyards, and museums within the fort. The intricate carvings, murals, and artifacts provide a glimpse into Bikaner's royal past. Don't miss the Chandra Mahal, Phool Mahal, and Karan Mahal.
Photography is allowed inside the fort. Guides are available for hire at the entrance. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
Hours: 10:00-17:00 daily
Best Time: Morning - to avoid the midday heat
Getting There: Auto-rickshaw: ₹80-100 from city center
Honest Take: Worth visiting for its well-preserved architecture and historical significance.
💡 Insider Tip:
Hire an audio guide for a more in-depth understanding of the fort's history.
Lalgarh Palace
Lalgarh Palace is a stunning red sandstone palace built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in the early 20th century. It exhibits a blend of Rajput, Mughal, and European architectural styles.
Visit the Shri Sadul Museum inside the palace to see photographs and hunting trophies of the royal family. Some parts of the palace are now a heritage hotel.
The palace grounds are well-maintained and offer a peaceful atmosphere. Check out the peacock sightings in the gardens.
Hours: 10:00-17:00 daily
Best Time: Afternoon - to enjoy the architecture
Getting There: Auto-rickshaw: ₹100-120 from city center
Honest Take: Worth a visit for its unique architecture and royal ambiance.
💡 Insider Tip:
Consider staying at the heritage hotel within the palace for a luxurious experience.
Karni Mata Temple (Rat Temple)
Karni Mata Temple, also known as the Rat Temple, is a unique and fascinating temple dedicated to the goddess Karni Mata. The temple is famous for its population of rats, which are considered sacred.
Observe the rats freely roaming around the temple premises. Devotees offer milk and sweets to the rats. It is considered auspicious to eat food that has been nibbled on by the rats.
Remove your shoes before entering the temple. Be prepared for the sight and sounds of rats. It's a truly unique cultural experience.
Hours: 24 hours
Best Time: Morning - to avoid crowds
Getting There: Taxi: ₹500-600 round trip from Bikaner (30km)
Honest Take: A must-visit for its unique and unusual religious significance.
💡 Insider Tip:
Bring socks to wear inside the temple as the floor can be slippery.
Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum
The Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum houses a collection of artifacts, sculptures, and paintings from the Harappan civilization, the Gupta period, and the Kushan era.
Explore the various galleries showcasing terracotta items, coins, weapons, and miniature paintings. The museum provides insights into the history and art of the region.
Photography is restricted in some sections of the museum. Allow ample time to see all the exhibits.
Hours: 10:00-17:00 daily
Closed: Fridays
Best Time: Afternoon - for a cool indoor activity
Getting There: Auto-rickshaw: ₹60-80 from city center
Honest Take: Worth a visit for history buffs and art enthusiasts.
💡 Insider Tip:
Check for special exhibitions or events happening at the museum during your visit.
Shiv Bari Temple
Shiv Bari Temple is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, featuring intricate carvings and a serene atmosphere. It was built by Maharaja Doongar Singh in the 19th century.
Admire the black marble Shiva lingam and the surrounding sculptures. The temple complex includes ponds and gardens, creating a tranquil environment.
The temple is a popular place of worship for locals. Remove your shoes before entering the temple.
Hours: 06:00-20:00 daily
Best Time: Evening - for a peaceful atmosphere
Getting There: Auto-rickshaw: ₹70-90 from city center
Honest Take: A good place for a quiet moment of reflection.
💡 Insider Tip:
Visit during the evening aarti (prayer ceremony) for a spiritual experience.
Prachina Museum
Prachina Museum showcases the traditional arts and crafts of Bikaner, including textiles, costumes, and jewelry. It is located within the Junagarh Fort complex.
See the displays of royal costumes, traditional Rajasthani jewelry, and antique textiles. The museum provides insights into the local culture and heritage.
The museum is relatively small but offers a good overview of Bikaner's artistic traditions.
Hours: 09:00-18:00 daily
Closed: Sundays
Best Time: Morning - to avoid midday heat
Getting There: Auto-rickshaw: ₹80-100 from city center
Honest Take: Worth a visit if you are interested in local arts and crafts.
💡 Insider Tip:
Ask the museum staff for information about the different exhibits and their significance.
Experience the Thar Desert on a camel safari. Explore the sand dunes and enjoy the scenic landscapes.
You'll ride on a camel through the desert, passing by small villages and encountering local wildlife. Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani meal during the safari.
Best for: Adventure travelers, nature lovers
Good to know: Wear comfortable clothing and sunscreen. Carry water and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Spend a night in the Thar Desert under the stars. Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani dinner and cultural performances.
You'll stay in a comfortable tent and experience the tranquility of the desert at night. Enjoy stargazing and listening to local music.
Best for: Adventure travelers, couples
Good to know: Carry warm clothing as the desert can get cold at night. Check the weather forecast before booking.
Bikaner is famous for its bhujia, a spicy snack made from moth beans and gram flour. Visit local shops and markets to buy different varieties of bhujia.
You'll find many shops selling bhujia in the city center. Sample different flavors and buy some to take home as a souvenir.
Best for: Foodies, souvenir hunters
Good to know: Check the expiry date before buying bhujia. Bargain for the best price.
Visit the National Research Centre on Camel, a camel breeding farm. Learn about different camel breeds and their importance in the desert ecosystem.
You'll see camels of different ages and learn about their care and management. You can also enjoy a camel ride.
Best for: Animal lovers, families
Good to know: The farm is located on the outskirts of the city. Hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to get there.
2 days | Free | Bikaner city
The Bikaner Camel Festival is a vibrant celebration of the camel, an integral part of desert life. It features camel races, camel dances, and other cultural performances.
Witness the beautifully decorated camels and enjoy the festive atmosphere. The festival showcases the culture and traditions of Rajasthan.
Check the exact dates of the festival before planning your visit.
Tip: Book accommodations in advance as the city gets crowded during the festival.
3-4 hours | ₹1500-2500 | Local cooking schools
Learn to prepare traditional Rajasthani dishes like dal baati churma and gatte ki sabzi. A local chef will guide you through the process.
You'll learn about the different spices and ingredients used in Rajasthani cuisine. Enjoy the meal you prepared at the end of the class.
Tip: Book the class in advance. Some classes may offer vegetarian options only.
2 hours | ₹500-1000 | Cultural centers, hotels
Experience the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan through music and dance. Watch traditional performances like the Kalbelia dance and the Ghoomar dance.
Enjoy the vibrant costumes, rhythmic music, and energetic dance moves. The performances showcase the culture and traditions of Rajasthan.
Check with your hotel or local tour operators for performance schedules.
Tip: Book tickets in advance to secure your spot.
4-5 hours | ₹800-1500 | Nearby villages
Visit a local village to experience the rural life of Rajasthan. Interact with the villagers and learn about their customs and traditions.
You'll see traditional houses, learn about local crafts, and enjoy a simple meal with the villagers. It's a great way to experience the authentic culture of Rajasthan.
Dress modestly and respect the local customs.
Tip: Book the tour through a reputable tour operator.
3 hours | Free | Pottery village near Bikaner
Visit a village known for its traditional pottery making. Watch the potters at work and learn about the process of making pottery.
You'll see the potters shaping the clay and firing the pottery in traditional kilns. You can also purchase pottery items directly from the potters.
Support the local artisans by purchasing their products.
Tip: Hire an auto-rickshaw for a round trip to the village.
Varies | Free | Various locations in Bikaner
Attend a local fair or festival to experience the vibrant culture of Bikaner. These events showcase local traditions, music, dance, and food.
You'll see colorful costumes, energetic performances, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Check the local calendar for upcoming fairs and festivals.
Tip: Be prepared for crowds and noise. Dress modestly and respect the local customs.
Bikaneri Bhujia
A spicy snack made from moth beans and gram flour (try at Chhotu Motu Joshi Sweet Shop).
Dal Baati Churma
A traditional Rajasthani dish (try at Heeralal's Restaurant).
Gatte ki Sabzi
A curry made from gram flour dumplings (try at Gallops Restaurant).
Kesar Kulfi
A saffron-flavored ice cream (try at a local sweet shop).
Mirchi Vada
A spicy chili fritter (available at street food stalls).
Rajasthani
📍 City Center
A popular restaurant serving authentic Rajasthani cuisine. The ambiance is traditional and the food is delicious.
₹600-800 for two
Indian, Continental
📍 Near Junagarh Fort
A fine-dining restaurant offering a mix of Indian and Continental dishes. The atmosphere is elegant and the service is excellent.
₹800-1200 for two
Sweets, Snacks
📍 City Center
A famous sweet shop known for its delicious bhujia and other snacks. A must-visit for foodies.
₹200-400 for two
Indian, Continental
📍 Laxmi Niwas Palace
Offers a royal dining experience with a wide selection of Indian and international dishes. The ambiance is luxurious and the service is impeccable.
₹1500-2000 for two
💰 Budget: ₹50-100 per person
⚠️ Tips: Be careful of hygiene. Choose stalls that look clean and have a high turnover.
Stay here for easy access to markets, restaurants, and the railway station. It can be noisy during the day but is convenient for transport.
Best For: First-time visitors, budget travelers
A good location for exploring the fort and other historical sites. It's quieter than the city center but still within easy reach of amenities.
Best For: History buffs, families
₹800-1200/night
📍 Near Junagarh Fort
Clean and comfortable rooms at an affordable price. Good location for sightseeing.
₹800-1200/night
📍 City Center
Basic but decent rooms, close to the railway station. Convenient for budget travelers.
₹700-1100/night
₹2000-3000/night
📍 Near Lalgarh Palace
Well-maintained hotel with spacious rooms and a swimming pool. Offers good value for money.
₹2000-3000/night
📍 Outskirts of Bikaner
A peaceful resort with traditional Rajasthani decor. Offers a relaxing stay away from the city.
₹1800-2800/night
₹8000+/night
📍 Near Lalgarh Palace
A heritage hotel offering a luxurious stay in a former royal residence. Impeccable service and stunning architecture.
₹8000+/night
📍 City Center
A boutique hotel with elegantly designed rooms and a rooftop restaurant. Offers a unique and memorable experience.
₹7000+/night
Airport: Bikaner Airport (BKB), 15km from city
Bikaner Junction (BKN)
Main railway station, well-connected to major cities
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
Note: Trains more comfortable for long distances
💰 ₹50-150 per trip
Best for: Short distances, local sightseeing
Bargain for the fare before starting the journey. Confirm the destination with the driver.
💰 ₹300-500 per trip
Best for: Longer distances, comfortable travel
Use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Ola for better rates.
💰 ₹400-600 per day
Best for: Independent exploration
Ensure you have a valid driving license and wear a helmet. Check the condition of the scooter before renting.
Wear light and comfortable clothing, especially during the summer months. Cover your head with a hat or scarf to protect yourself from the sun. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1500, Mid: ₹3000, Luxury: ₹5000+
ATMs: ATMs are widely available in the city center.
Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for small transactions. Credit cards are accepted at major hotels and restaurants.
Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in local markets and with auto-rickshaw drivers.
Water: Drink bottled water to avoid stomach problems. Avoid ice from unknown sources.
Food: Eat at reputable restaurants to minimize the risk of food poisoning. Be cautious of street food.
Common Issues: Heatstroke, dehydration, and stomach problems are common. Carry sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary medications.
SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio offer good coverage. A SIM card costs around ₹200 with data plans.
WiFi: Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and some restaurants.
Language: Hindi is the most commonly spoken language. English is spoken in tourist areas. Learn a few basic Hindi phrases.
Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: ₹20-50
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