Located somewhere in the vast Thar Desert, Bikaner is one of the hidden treasures of Rajasthan — a city of forts that are magnificent as well as ornate temples; markets that are vibrant and sweets that are legendary.  

Established in 1488 by Rao Bika, the mediaeval charm remains in Bikaner, and it is one of those historic royal cities in Rajasthan, without any heavy crowd of the bigger tourist city.

Bikaner is a desert gem, but if you are planning to head here by any chance, here is a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Bikaner for your trip to be memorable.

Grandeur Of Junagarh Fort to Explore

Junagarh Fort is one of the most impressive fort complexes in Rajasthan and should be visited when you are in Bikaner.  

Erected in the 16th century by Raja Rai Singh, the fort is an architectural beauty that has intricate carvings, stunning courtyards and edifices of palaces.

If you are lucky, you can witness the frescoes, mirrors and gold inlay work at Anup Mahal, Ganga Mahal and Phool Mahal, which lie inside the fort.  

Unlike many forts in Rajasthan, whose towering presence is all the more remarkable, Junagarh is not built on a hill.

The fort boasts the museum inside which exhibits royal costumes, weapons, artefacts and manuscripts on display, which walking through history wouldn’t like to miss.

Visit Karni Mata Temple (Rat Temple)

Karni Mata Temple at Deshnok is another such unique attraction in Rajasthan, located only about 30 km from Bikaner.  

The temple is known locally as the Rat Temple because that is where more than 20,000 holy rats live, thought to be reincarnated devotees of Karni Mata.

These creatures should be respected by visitors, and spotting a white rat among the black rats is considered great good luck, or it is extremely auspicious.  

While the temple’s residents may seem strange, the marble façade and silver gates also make it an architectural wonder.

It’s an eerie, spiritual and fascinating once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Admire the Beauty of Lalgarh Palace

Lalgarh Palace is an example of Indo-Saracenic architecture built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in the early 20th century.  

Red sandstone also constructs the palace, which features grand halls, expansive lawns, and latticework.

Some of the part of the palace has been converted into a luxury heritage hotel, while the other part serves as the Sadul Singh Museum with portraits, hunting trophies and memorabilia from the royal family.

Although you may not be staying here, a trip to Lalgarh Palace will offer you a peek into the lavish lifestyles of Bikaner’s maharajas.

The Spiritual Side at Laxmi Nath Temple

Laxmi Nath Temple is one of the oldest temples in Bikaner and it is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.  

It was built in the 15th century and is known for its beautiful stone and marble work.

The temple’s peaceful atmosphere coupled with its historical importance makes it a worthwhile halt for the people wanting to surrender to the cultural roots of Bikaner.

During Hindu festivals in particular, it is very busy, and the temple is decorated with lights and flowers.

The Old City and the Havelis can be wandered through.

With its old city being a maze of narrow lanes,   bazaars and beautiful havelis (mansions), Bikaner is a slice of hell.  

Don’t miss visiting the Rampuria Havelis, beautiful houses of the wealthy Rampuria family built in the 15th century.

The almost havelis of Bikaner may be seen with intricate jharokhas (overhanging balconies) and latticed windows and fine stone carvings, and these tell the story of the grandeur and craftsmanship of Bikaner in the golden age.

Walking along the path of this area is very much a step back in time and essential for those of you interested in history and photography.

Shop at Kote Gate Market

In the open-air Kote Gate Market, you can have an authentic taste of the local life.  

It offers traditional Rajasthani fabrics, leather goods, handicrafts, camel hide products, miniature paintings and ethnic jewellery for shopping here.

Apart from shopping, Bikaner is a wonderful place to taste the market’s famous snacks like spicy bhujia and sweet rasgullas.  

So bargaining is a common practice, and don’t hesitate to negotiate prices.

Relish Bikaner’s Famous Cuisine

For the food lover, Bikaner is certainly paradise; not because the food is spicy, but because everything is spicy, in the best sense of the word.  

Bikaneri Bhujia is a crispy spiced snack made from moth beans and gram flour, and the city is famous all over the world for this.

Other must-try dishes include:

Kachori: A crispy, deep-fried snack filled with spicy lentils or onions is known as Kachori.

Gatte ki Sabzi: Besan (gram flour) dumplings in a spicy yoghurt curry.

Laal Maas: A fiery Rajasthani mutton dish

Ghevar and Rasgulla: 

Ghevar and Rasgulla: Sweet delights to satiate the sugar cravings. Also, visit iconic places such as Chhotu Motu Joshi Sweet Shop and Bhikharam Chandmal to get a taste of good old flavours.

During a visit in January, attend the Camel Festival

There is the Camel Festival in January in Bikaner, where 'Ship of the Desert' gets a grand celebration.  

Camel races, camel dances, decorated camel parades, and other cultural performances are on a two-day event.

A colourful extravaganza, a confluence of the talent of artists, dancers and musicians of Rajasthan.  

Besides, local crafts, food stalls and folk performances are also there for visitors to enjoy.

A spectacular cultural immersion into Thailand, if your trip coincides with this festival.

Take a Desert Safari

Being close to the Thar Desert, one has exciting camel safari or jeep safari opportunities in Bikaner.  

Visit the rustic desert landscape, which is encompassed by small villages, sand dunes, and ancient temples.

Other safaris give an opportunity to spend one night in a desert camp under a starlit sky staying in tents and enjoying traditional songs and dances with a bonfire.

It’s a magical experience of capturing the soul of Rajasthan’s desert life.

Relax at Gajner Palace and Wildlife Sanctuary

Gajner Palace is an amazing lakeside palace located near Bikaner, about 30 km from Bikaner, constructed by Maharaja Ganga Singh as a hunting lodge. 

Nowadays, it’s a heritage hotel; however, the grounds are open to visitors who can go and bask in the serene atmosphere as well.

Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary is also home to antelopes, wild boars, nilgai, and a wide variety of bird species, which flank the sanctuary.  

A peaceful day trip away from the city bustle is a perfect spot.

Best Time to Visit Bikaner

One should visit Bikaner during the winter months (October to March); the weather is cool and pleasant for sightseeing.  

Outdoor activities become very uncomfortable during the summer when temperatures rise above 45°C.

The Camel Festival during the winter also gives you quick access to major festivals like the Camel Festival, which adds more cultural dimension to your trip.

Travel Tips for Bikaner

Stay Hydrated: Stay Hydrated because the desert climate is very dry.

Carrying Sunscreen and Glasses: It provides protection from the harsh sun.

Wear comfortable footwear for spending a lot of foot time in forts and markets.

Respect Local Customs: Respect Local Customs (dress modestly when visiting temples).

Plan your safaris wisely: Carry out your safaris only through trusted operators so as to have a safe and authentic experience.

Conclusion: 

Poet by the numbers and cryptography by default, Sukh is a voracious reader who currently spends her days consulting the arts as The Impresario.  One difference between the cities with more tourism draw is that Bikaner has an authentic charm that feels welcoming and not completely spoiled.

Whenever you visit Junagarh Fort, just take a taste of spicy Bikaneri bhujia or walk in blue lanes and colourful markets; it is all a taste of royalty in Rajasthan.