Bikaner
Complete Travel Guide
Bikaner Located in the northwestern part of Rajasthan, Bikaner is a vibrant desert city that blends royal heritage, cultural richness, and scenic charm. Known for its imposing forts, intricate temples, and golden sand dunes, tourism in Bikaner offers a unique window into Rajasthan’s regal past and colorful traditions. The city has a dry, desert climate, making it ideal for winter travel, especially from November to February.
The best tourist places in Bikaner include the majestic Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, and the world-famous Karni Mata Temple, home to thousands of sacred rats. The National Research Centre on Camel, also known as the Camel Breeding Farm, is another must-visit for animal lovers and families. Local markets filled with handicrafts, spices, and traditional snacks like Bikaneri Bhujia add to the authentic experience.
Why visit Bikaner ? It’s less commercialized compared to other Rajasthani cities, offering a quieter, more immersive journey into royal India. The Camel Festival held every January showcases folk dances, camel races, and vibrant Rajasthani culture—one of the top reasons to visit Bikaner.
Whether you’re a history buff, culture enthusiast, or offbeat traveler, Bikaner promises memorable experiences with warm hospitality and timeless charm.
History & Cultural Significance of Bikaner
Bikaner history dates back to 1488 AD when it was founded by Rao Bika, a Rathore prince and the son of the founder of Jodhpur. Strategically located on ancient trade routes, Bikaner flourished as a center of commerce and defense in the harsh Thar Desert. The city’s impressive forts, palaces, and havelis reflect the opulence and valor of its rulers.
Among the most important cultural places in Bikaner is the Junagarh Fort, an architectural marvel that has never been conquered. The Laxmi Niwas Palace, once the royal residence, showcases Indo-Saracenic design, while Karni Mata Temple in Deshnok offers a mystical experience steeped in legend and devotion. The Rampuria Havelis and local bazaars further reflect the city’s rich artistic heritage.
Bikaner is also known for its deep-rooted traditions in camel breeding, miniature paintings, and vibrant folk music. Its festivals, especially the Camel Festival, highlight the city’s enduring cultural identity and colorful way of life.
Best Time to Visit Bikaner
The best time to visit Bikaner is during the winter months from October to February. The weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and enjoying desert activities without the scorching heat.
Bikaner Weather Guide
Bikaner experiences a hot desert climate. Summers (April to June) can be extremely hot, with temperatures soaring above 45°C, while winters are cool and comfortable, making it the peak tourist season.
Festivals and Events to Experience
One of the top reasons to visit Bikaner in winter is the Bikaner Camel Festival, held in January. This vibrant cultural event showcases traditional Rajasthani music, dance, camel races, and local handicrafts — a must-see festival for travelers seeking authentic desert experiences.
Best Places to Visit in Bikaner
Junagarh Fort
A must-visit attraction in Bikaner, Junagarh Fort is known for its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and royal history. Unlike many forts in Rajasthan, it’s built on the plains and houses palaces, temples, and pavilions inside.
Karni Mata Temple (Rat Temple)
One of the most unique places in Bikaner, Karni Mata Temple in Deshnok is famous for its thousands of revered rats. It’s a popular stop for cultural tourists looking for unusual religious sites in Rajasthan.
Lalgarh Palace
A top tourist attraction in Bikaner, Lalgarh Palace blends Rajput, Mughal, and European architecture. Now partly converted into a heritage hotel, the palace is also home to the Shri Sadul Museum.
National Research Centre on Camel
Perfect for families, this is a famous spot in Bikaner where you can learn about camels, enjoy camel rides, and taste camel milk ice cream — a unique experience in Rajasthan.
Gajner Palace & Wildlife Sanctuary
Located about 30 km from the city, Gajner Palace is a serene getaway surrounded by a scenic lake and forest reserve. It’s ideal for nature lovers and those seeking weekend escapes near Bikaner.
Things to do in Bikaner
What to do in Bikaner? This desert city offers a blend of history, culture, and offbeat experiences for every kind of traveler.
Explore Junagarh Fort: Walk through ancient courtyards, royal halls, and museums for a deep dive into Bikaner’s royal heritage.
Enjoy Camel Safari in the Thar Desert: A unique experience in Bikaner, perfect for couples and adventure lovers. Watch the sunset over the golden dunes.
Visit the National Camel Research Centre: A fun and educational stop for families, where you can see different camel breeds and even try camel milk ice cream!
Seek Blessings at Karni Mata Temple: One of the most cultural places in Bikaner, this temple is famous for its holy rats – a surreal experience!
Shop at Kote Gate Market: A paradise for souvenir hunters – shop for Bikaneri bhujia, local fabrics, handicrafts, and more.
Relish Local Cuisine: Try authentic Bikaneri dishes like Ghevar, Bhujia, and spicy Rajasthani thalis for a flavor-packed culinary experience.
From historical sites to camel rides and street shopping, there are plenty of fun things to do in Bikaner with family, friends, or as a couple.
How to Reach Bikaner
By Air (Flights to Bikaner)
The nearest airport is Nal Airport (Bikaner Airport), located about 15 km from the city. It operates limited domestic flights. The nearest major airport with better connectivity is Jodhpur Airport, approximately 250 km away.
FAQ: Which is the nearest airport to Bikaner?
➡️ Nal Airport (Domestic); for international travelers, Jodhpur Airport is more convenient.
By Train (Rail Connectivity)
Bikaner Junction (BKN) is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Kolkata, and Mumbai. Trains like the Bikaner Express and Rajasthan Sampark Kranti make the city easily accessible by rail.
By Road (Bus/Taxi/Driving from Major Cities)
Bikaner is accessible via NH11 and NH62, with regular Rajasthan State Road Transport (RSRTC) buses and private taxis from Jaipur, Jodhpur, Delhi, and other nearby cities. Self-drive options are also popular for road trippers.
Places to Visit Near Bikaner
Deshnok (Karni Mata Temple) – Famous for the “Rat Temple,” just 30 km from Bikaner
Gajner Palace & Lake – A scenic heritage site with birdwatching and boating, 35 km away.
Kolayat – A peaceful pilgrimage town known for its sacred lake and ghats, 50 km away.
Tal Chhapar Sanctuary – Ideal for wildlife lovers, especially blackbucks and migratory birds, about 130 km from Bikaner.
Nagaur – Historic fort town with cultural charm, located 115 km from Bikaner.
FAQ about Bikaner
Bikaner is famous for its majestic Junagarh Fort, camel breeding farm, rich Rajasthani culture, and spicy snacks like Bikaneri bhujia.
A 2-day trip is ideal to explore top attractions like Junagarh Fort, Karni Mata Temple, Lalgarh Palace, and the local markets.
Yes, Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary, about 32 km from Bikaner, is a serene spot with migratory birds, nilgais, and desert foxes.
Bikaner is renowned for its bhujia, kachori, rasgulla, and spicy namkeens, making it a paradise for food lovers.
Absolutely! Camel safaris are a must-do in Bikaner, especially at Raisar and Khimsar villages. It offers a more peaceful and authentic desert experience compared to crowded tourist spots.
Yes, Bikaner also has sand dunes around 30–40 km from the city, especially in Khimsar and Raisar, but they’re less commercialized than Jaisalmer.