The Most Famous Sightseeing Attractions of Bikaner

Bikaner is a city full of rich cultural heritage and history, which dates back to several centuries. Every year, thousands of tourists from India and abroad come to visit this beautiful city. Bikaner is well-known for its majestic forts, palaces, and temples. In this post, we will take a closer look at some of the most famous sightseeing attractions in Bikaner.

Junagarh Fort

Junagarh Fort is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Bikaner. Built-in the 16th century by Raja Rai Singh, this magnificent fort is a perfect blend of Islamic, Rajput, and Gujarati styles of architecture. The fort houses several palaces, temples, and other structures, which are adorned with intricate carvings and designs. The fort also houses a museum, which showcases the history and culture of Bikaner.

Karni Mata Temple

Karni Mata Temple, also known as the Rat Temple, is another famous tourist attraction in Bikaner. The temple is dedicated to Karni Mata, a Hindu sage who lived in the 14th century. The temple is unique in the sense that it houses thousands of rats, which are worshipped by the devotees. The temple is located in Deshnok, which is about 30 kilometers from Bikaner.

Lalgarh Palace

Lalgarh Palace is another popular tourist attraction in Bikaner. It was built-in the early 20th century by Maharaja Ganga Singh. The palace is a perfect blend of Rajput, Mughal, and European styles of architecture. The palace houses several courtyards, halls, and rooms, which are adorned with paintings, photographs, and artifacts that depict the history and culture of Bikaner.

Rampuria Havelis

Rampuria Havelis are a group of heritage buildings that were built-in the 18th and 19th centuries by the wealthy merchants of Bikaner. The havelis are famous for their intricate carvings, paintings, and designs. The havelis are located in the old city of Bikaner and are easily accessible by foot.

Gajner Palace

Gajner Palace is located about 32 kilometers from Bikaner and is another famous tourist attraction in the city. The palace was built-in the early 20th century by Maharaja Ganga Singh as a hunting lodge. The palace is surrounded by a beautiful lake and is now converted into a heritage hotel. The palace is a perfect place to enjoy the serenity and calmness of nature.

Camel Research Farm

Camel Research Farm is another unique tourist attraction in Bikaner. The farm is dedicated to the research and breeding of camels, which are known as the ship of the desert. The farm is located about 8 kilometers from Bikaner and is easily accessible by road. Visitors can observe the breeding and training of camels at the farm.

Kote Gate

Kote Gate is one of the most famous landmarks of Bikaner. The gate was built-in the 18th century and is a fine example of Rajasthani style of architecture. The gate is adorned with intricate carvings and designs. The gate is located in the old city of Bikaner and is easily accessible by foot.

Conclusion

Bikaner is a city full of rich cultural heritage and history. The city has several tourist attractions that showcase the history, culture, and traditions of Rajasthan. Junagarh Fort, Karni Mata Temple, Lalgarh Palace, Rampuria Havelis, Gajner Palace, Camel Research Farm, and Kote Gate are some of the most famous tourist attractions in Bikaner. We hope this post has provided you with some insightful information about these attractions and encourages you to plan your visit to the beautiful city of Bikaner.

An Insider’s Guide to Bikaner

If you are planning a trip to Bikaner, there are many famous sightseeing attractions that you can visit. However, there is much more to the city than just these popular tourist spots. As a local guide, I’m here to take you off the beaten path and show you some hidden gems that only the locals know about.

Local Attractions

While the Junagarh Fort and the Karni Mata Temple are certainly worth visiting, there are some lesser-known attractions that are equally fascinating. The Bikaner Camel Research Center, for example, is a unique place that offers visitors an opportunity to interact with camels and learn about their importance in the desert lifestyle. Another exceptional spot is the Ganga Singh Museum, which displays a rich collection of artifacts, photographs, and antiques related to the history and culture of Bikaner.

Dining Spots

Bikaner’s food culture is an irresistible blend of Rajasthani and Marwari cuisine, full of flavors and aroma. The food here is prepared with a generous amount of ghee, which gives it a distinct taste. Some of the must-try dishes include Rajasthani thali, Pyaaz Kachori, Dal Bati Churma, Ghevar, and Rasgulla. For an authentic dining experience, head to Chhotu Motu Joshi Sweet Shop, which has been serving delicious snacks and sweets for over 70 years. Kote Gate and Mahaveer Bhojnalaya are two other places where you can find scrumptious local dishes.

Cultural Experiences

Bikaner is a city that takes pride in its vibrant culture and rich heritage. The annual Camel Festival is an excellent opportunity to explore the city’s cultural treasures. This two-day event is celebrated in January and features camel races, camel beauty contests, folk music, and dance performances. If you are in Bikaner during other times of the year, visit the Rampuria Haveli to discover the intriguing Rajputana-style architecture and elaborate frescoes painted on the walls. You can also participate in a Rajasthani dance workshop or try your hand at block printing at the Nokha Mandi Crafts Center.

Local History

Bikaner has a fascinating history that dates back to the 15th century. One of the most intriguing stories involves Prithviraj Chauhan, a powerful king who lived in the 12th century. He had eloped with a princess named Samyukta, and the couple fled to the Thar desert to escape her father’s wrath. As they wandered through the desert, they came across a holy man who blessed them and told them to establish a kingdom in the desert. The couple then founded the city of Bikaner.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a unique and unforgettable experience in Bikaner, take a hot air balloon ride over the city and watch the sunrise over the desert. You can also sign up for a camel safari and explore the remote villages and sand dunes of the Thar desert. Alternatively, visit the Rat Temple (Karni Mata Temple) and be amazed by the thousands of rats that roam around freely.

In conclusion, Bikaner is a city that is brimming with history, culture, and unique experiences. Beyond the famous sightseeing attractions, there is a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be explored. So pack your bags and embark on an adventure in Bikaner, a city in Rajasthan that will leave you spellbound.