Bikaner is a wonderful medieval city of Rajasthan, still retaining its medieval grandeur and charm. Bikaner is known for its strong fortification, encompassed by a 7 km long wall with five gates to enter. Situated in the vast Thar Desert, Bikaner is famous for its magnificent fort, palaces, temples, exotic sand dunes, exciting camel safaris, and a unique culture that never fails to mesmerize its visitors. Bikaner is also famous for its colorful fairs and festivals.
What to See in Bikaner
Junagarh Fort: One of the most formidable forts of India, Junagarh Fort has never been conquered by its enemies. Built in 1593 AD by Raja Rai Singh, the most able and trusted generals of Akbar, Junagarh Fort is constructed on the plains, contrary to other forts of Rajasthan, normally built on hilltops. A massive structure encircled by a moat, it houses many beautiful palaces like Anup Mahal, Ganga Niwas and Rang Mahal or palace of pleasure.
Lalgadh Palace: Built between 1902-1926 by Maharaja Ganga Singh, Lalgadh Palace is a beautiful red palace, displaying a perfect blend of Rajput and European architectural style. Designed by Sir Swinton Jacob, a British architect, the palace has several grand halls, lounges, cupolas and pavilions with overhanging balconies and latticework. Now a luxury 5-star heritage hotel, it also houses the Shri Sadul Museum, displaying well-preserved photographs of the erstwhile maharajas, their personal belongings, wildlife trophies, and a carriage from the maharaja's royal train.
Bhandeshwar and Sandeshwar Jain Temples: Located on the outskirts of Bikaner, these 14th century temples are major tourist attraction in Bikaner. Dedicated to 23rd Jain tirthankar, Parsvanath, these temples are famous for their mirror work and the gold leaf paintings.
Camel Breeding Farms: Located just 8 km from the city, the Camel Breeding Farm is the largest and only of its kind in Asia. These farms produce the fastest riding camels in the world. Visitors can also enjoy a camel ride or a cup of camel's milk at the farms.
Fort Museum: Located inside the Junagarh Fort in one of the palaces, Ganga Mahal, the Fort Museum has a rich collection of antiques, weaponry, jade handle daggers, camel hide shields and inlaid handguns and camel guns. Photographs, miniatures, gold and silver jhulas, palkis and a First World War biplane are also on display.
Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum: This small museum is famous for its rich collection of ancient potteries. The museum also exhibits a fine collection of carpets, Bikaneri miniature paintings, armory and coins, and local arts.
The Har Mandir: Located inside the Junagarh Fort, Har Mandir is a majestic chapel. It was specially built for the royal family, where royal weddings and births were once celebrated.
Things to Do in Bikaner
Bikaner offers a wide choice of leisure activities to its visitors. Popularly known as the Camel Country, Bikaner offers an exciting and unforgettable camel safari. Ride a bejeweled camel and discover the magnificent forts, palaces, havelis and exotic sand dunes of Jaisalmer. You can also enjoy excursions to a number of exciting tourist destinations nearby like Devikund (8 km) famous for its royal cenotaphs, Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary (32 km) famous for is unique wildlife, Deshnok's Karni Mata Temple (30 km) famous for its intricately carved silver gates and thousands of rats regarded as incarnations of mystics. Bikaner is also famous for its colorful festivals like Camel Festival, Jambeshwar Fair, Kapil Muni Fair and Karni Mata Fair. Visit Bikaner during festival seasons to experience the true color and charm of the city. Bikaner also offers an exciting shopping experience to its visitors. On tours to Bikaner, you can shop for leather purses, slippers, cushions and lacquered lampshades made of camel skin.
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