A wonderful city popularly known as the ‘Camel Country’, Bikaner was founded by Rao Bikaji, a Rathore prince, in 1488. It’s a vibrant desert town where camels are a significant part of people’s life. Once it was an important trading town. The annual camel festival, mesmerizing forts and palaces of this town attract tourists from far and wide...
Major attractions of Bikaner
Junagarh Fort
Reflecting a stunning amalgamation of the Oriental and European styles of architecture, Junagarh Fort is a must-see attraction of Bikaner. It was built by Raja Rai Singh in 1593. It is one of the forts of India which remained unconquered throughout. The fort complex encompasses wonderful palaces, gardens and a museum displaying weapons and ornaments of the bygone era.
Lalgarh Palace
This majestic palace in red sandstone was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in 1926. Its flawless latticework and filigree work deserve special mention. Its lush green gardens with dancing peacocks are a sight to behold. It also houses a museum with a range of artifacts. Some portion of the palace has been converted into a heritage hotel.
Camel Research Center
A home to many camels, this research farm is a famous attraction of Bikaner. Covering an area of around 2000 acres, the farm is a breeding and training center for camels. Tourists can visit the farm and know about the different breeds of camels and their behavior. There is also a camel museum to acquaint tourists with the development and research aspects of camel in a desert. The farm complex also has a gift shop and a snacks bar where you can taste camel milk products.
Ganga Singh Museum
It is a well known museum where one can treat one’s eyes with a wide range of artifacts such as carpets, paintings, pottery, ancient Rajput weapons, terracotta etc.
Bhandeswari Jain Temple
Built in the 15th century, Bhandeswari Jain Temple is the oldest monument of Bikaner. It is adorned with mirror work, frescoes and gold leaf paintings.
Havelis
The havelis of Bikaner boasts of exquisite carvings and huge courtyards. The havelis of Dagas, Vaids, Rampurias and Kotharis are the most famous ones.
Shopping in Bikaner
The markets in Bikaner are famous for handicrafts like carpets, Cotton fabrics with sanganeri prints, Kundan work, Wooden antiques, Mojari (Bikaneri style), Lacquer Bangles, leather articles etc.