The desert city of Bikaner exudes an ambience of well preserved medieval splendour. Undulating and shifting sand dunes in the rugged Thar Desert open out to a magnificent heritage city of forts, palaces and colourful markets, fortified against marauders by seven km long embattlem... Read More

The desert city of Bikaner exudes an ambience of well preserved medieval splendour. Undulating and shifting sand dunes in the rugged Thar Desert open out to a magnificent heritage city of forts, palaces and colourful markets, fortified against marauders by seven km long embattlements.
The Junagarh Fort is encircled by a moat that protects the splendid complex of thirty-seven palaces, pavilions and temples. Lal Garh Palace is an architectural masterpiece in red sandstone part of which has now been converted into a luxury hotel and a museum. The Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum houses a rare collection of terra-cotta ware, weapons, miniature paintings from the Bikaner School, coins and masterpieces of Harappan civilization. The temple of Karni Devi, The Bhandeshwar and Sandeshwar Jain Temples, the Laxminathji, Nagnechiji and Shiv Bari temples are some of the holy places in Bikaner. Rampuria Haveli and the Kothari Haveli in the old city are heritage buildings sporting impressive and ornate carved ‘jalis’ and balconies.
Camel Safaris and Jeep Safaris are a wonderful way to explore the desert and would definitely be an unforgettable experience. You could even plan a trip in January, when the city comes alive with action in preparation for the colourful Camel Fair or visit the Camel Research Centre and get educated about the ship of the desert.
Bikaner is linked by a good state and national highways and railways to other cities and the nearest airport is in Jodhpur.
Best time to visit: October to March
Languages spoken: Marwari, Hindi, English
Climate: Very hot summers and cold winters
Heritage sites: Junagarh Fort, Lal Garh Palace, Rampuria Haveli,Kothari Haveli
Holy places: Karni Devi Temple, Bhandeshwar and Sandeshwar Jain Temples, Laxminathji Temple, Nagnechiji Temple, Shiv Bari Temple
Activities: Camel Safari, Jeep Safari
Knowledge Centres: Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum, Camel Research Centre