Bikaner is a historic city in northern Rajasthan, located near the India-Pakistan border and surrounded by the Thar Desert. One of its main attractions is the Junagarh Fort, built in the 16th century, which has many beautifully designed buildings and halls. Inside the fort, the Prachina Museum displays royal portraits and traditional clothing. The famous Karni Mata Temple, known for its many sacred rats, is also nearby and visited by many Hindu devotees. To the west of the city is the Shri Laxminath Temple, built from red stone and marble.
Another popular site is the Bhandasar Jain Temple, which is known for its detailed carvings and bright wall paintings. In the city center, the Ganga Government Museum showcases items like pottery, ancient coins, and Rajput-era weapons. Just outside Bikaner, Devi Kund Sagar is a peaceful spot with large memorials honoring past rulers of the Bikaji dynasty. On the city’s edge, the National Research Centre on Camel focuses on camel breeding and has a small museum explaining the camel’s importance in desert life.
places to visit in Bikaner
Junagarh Fort
Junagarh Fort is a historic fort in Bikaner, originally known as Chintamani.
It was renamed Junagarh, which means “Old Fort,” in the early 1900s after the royal family moved to the Lalgarh Palace.
The fort is famous for its grand architecture and well-preserved structures.
Inside, there are several halls, temples, and gates to explore.
The fort offers a glimpse into the royal life of the past.
Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the city from the fort’s walls.
It remains one of the most popular attractions in Bikaner.
Lalgarh Palace
Lalgarh Palace is a grand palace in Bikaner, built between 1902 and 1926 for Maharaja Sir Ganga Singh.
The palace blends traditional Rajput architecture with colonial influences.
Its intricate design and spacious courtyards make it a beautiful sight.
Today, it’s a heritage hotel, welcoming tourists who want to experience royal luxury.
The palace has many rooms with vintage furniture and royal artifacts.
The lush gardens surrounding the palace add to its charm.
Lalgarh Palace offers a glimpse into the opulence of Rajasthan’s royal history.
Gajner Palace
Gajner Palace was once the royal residence of Maharaja Sir Ganga Singh of Bikaner.
It is now a heritage hotel, offering visitors a taste of royal life in a serene environment.
The palace is located about 20 km from Bikaner, beside the beautiful Gajner Lake.
The setting is perfect for those looking to relax and enjoy nature.
Its architecture is a mix of traditional Rajput styles and modern touches.
The palace is a peaceful escape, surrounded by wildlife and gardens.
Staying here lets you experience the grandeur of Rajasthan’s royal past.
Karni Mata Temple
Karni Mata Temple is one of the most famous temples in Bikaner.
It is unique for the large population of rats that live within it, considered sacred by locals.
The temple is dedicated to Karni Mata, a Hindu goddess believed to be an incarnation of Durga.
Thousands of rats roam freely inside the temple, and they are treated with great respect.
Visitors often come to see the rats, which are believed to bring blessings.
The temple is an important religious site for locals and tourists alike.
It is an interesting blend of spirituality and unusual wildlife.
Rampuria Haveli
Rampuria Haveli is a collection of historic buildings built by the Rampuria family in the 15th century.
The havelis are made from red Dulmera sandstone, giving them a unique look.
These havelis showcase beautiful carvings, arches, and intricate designs.
They reflect the artistic and architectural skills of the time.
The haveli complex is located in the heart of Bikaner’s old town.
Visitors can admire the detailed artwork and learn about the family’s history.
It’s a must-see for anyone interested in traditional Rajput architecture.
Bhandsar Jain Temple
Bhandsar Jain Temple is one of the two major Jain temples in Bikaner.
Dedicated to the 6th Jain Tirthankara, Sumatinath, it was built in the 15th century.
The temple is known for its beautiful three-story structure and detailed carvings.
The intricate artwork on the walls and ceiling is a fine example of Jain temple architecture.
The temple’s serene atmosphere attracts many visitors seeking peace and spirituality.
It is a significant pilgrimage site for Jain devotees.
The temple’s historical and architectural beauty makes it a popular destination.
Royal Centaphs
The Royal Centaphs are memorials built to honor members of Bikaner’s royal family.
Located east of the city, these structures are built in a traditional Rajput style.
They are adorned with intricate carvings and detailed architecture.
The centaphs serve as a place to pay respects to the late rulers.
They are surrounded by a peaceful garden, making it a tranquil spot to visit.
Visitors can learn about the city’s royal history through these memorials.
It’s an important site for those interested in the region’s past.
Kodamdeshwar Temple
Kodamdeshwar Temple is unique because it has no building structure.
The temple consists of just a statue of the deity, placed on a marble platform.
There is no hall, door, or roof in this simple yet significant shrine.
It is located in a peaceful area, allowing visitors to connect with nature.
Despite its unusual design, it holds great spiritual value for locals.
The temple’s simplicity and tranquility make it an interesting place to visit.
It offers a different kind of experience compared to traditional temples.
Shiv Bari Temple
Shiv Bari Temple is one of the most popular religious sites in Bikaner.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and holds great significance for local worshippers.
It is known for its impressive Rajput architecture and intricate carvings.
The temple has a peaceful ambiance, perfect for prayer and reflection.
Shiv Bari Temple is also famous for its large pond, adding to its charm.
The architecture and detailed sculptures make it a beautiful example of Rajputana design.
It is a must-visit for those interested in spiritual and architectural history.
Best time to visit Bikaner
The best time to visit Bikaner is between October and March when the weather is cool and pleasant. The summer season in Bikaner lasts from March to June, with temperatures ranging from 28°C to 46°C. During this time, hot winds and dust storms make the weather even more uncomfortable, making it not ideal for sightseeing.
Bikaner experiences moderate rainfall from July to November during the monsoon season. The weather becomes quite humid, which is not the best time to visit.
Winter, from December to February, brings cooler temperatures between 4°C and 23°C. The weather is pleasant during this time, making it perfect for sightseeing and exploring the attractions of Bikaner.
