Bikaner, a vibrant city located in the heart of Rajasthan, India, is an enchanting blend of history, culture, and desert landscapes.
Known for its rich heritage, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine, Bikaner offers visitors a unique experience that stands apart from the typical tourist destinations in Rajasthan.
If you're planning a visit to this magnificent city, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your trip!
1. How to Reach Bikaner
Bikaner is well-connected to major cities in India by road, rail, and air.
By Air: The Nal Airport serves Bikaner, with limited domestic flights. However, the nearest major airport is Jodhpur Airport, which is about 250 kilometers away. From Jodhpur, you can travel to Bikaner by taxi or bus.
By Train: Bikaner Junction is well-connected to cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Mumbai through regular trains. The station is located around 3 kilometers from the city center, making it easy to reach your accommodation.
By Road: Bikaner is connected by a network of highways, and you can easily access it by buses, taxis, or private vehicles. The city is about 330 kilometers from Jaipur and approximately 650 kilometers from Delhi.
2. Best Time to Visit Bikaner
The best time to visit Bikaner is during the winter months (October to March), when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing. Summers in Bikaner (April to June) can be scorching, with temperatures often exceeding 104°F (40°C), while the monsoon season (July to September) brings moderate rainfall, which may affect outdoor activities.
3. Top Attractions in Bikaner
Bikaner is famous for its historical forts, temples, and palaces. Here are some must-visit spots:
Junagarh Fort: This magnificent fort, built in the 16th century, is one of the most well-preserved forts in Rajasthan. It is known for its beautiful architecture, intricate carvings, and impressive courtyards. The entry fee for Junagarh Fort is approximately $3 USD for foreigners.
Karni Mata Temple (Rat Temple): Located around 30 kilometers from Bikaner, this temple is famous for housing thousands of rats, which are considered sacred by the locals. While entry is free, donations are welcome.
Lalgarh Palace: A beautiful example of Rajput and Mughal architecture, this palace now serves as a heritage hotel. It is a stunning blend of red sandstone and intricate carvings.
Bhandasar Jain Temple: This 16th-century Jain temple is known for its stunning frescoes and marble carvings. It's an excellent spot for history enthusiasts.
Gajner Palace: Located around 30 km from Bikaner, this palace is a serene and peaceful retreat surrounded by a wildlife sanctuary. You can also enjoy boating in the nearby lake.
4. Cuisine in Bikaner
Bikaner is known for its unique Rajasthani cuisine, and no trip is complete without indulging in some of the city’s famous dishes. Must-try dishes include:
Bikaneri Bhujia: A crunchy and spicy snack made from chickpea flour, it’s famous worldwide and can be bought from various shops in the city.
Kachori: A fried pastry filled with spicy lentils or potatoes, usually served with chutney.
Dal Baati Churma: A traditional Rajasthani dish that consists of lentils, round wheat bread (baati), and sweet churma.
Chaas: A refreshing buttermilk drink, perfect for the hot desert weather.
5. Shopping in Bikaner
Bikaner is a fantastic place to shop for traditional handicrafts, textiles, and spices. The city is famous for its Rajasthani quilts, camel leather goods, and vibrant textiles. Some of the best markets include:
Kote Gate Market: A bustling market where you can find a variety of traditional Rajasthani clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs.
Bikaner Haat: A place to pick up handicrafts like lac bangles, puppets, and woolen carpets.
Bikaner, with its rich history, architectural marvels, and delicious food, is an excellent destination for travelers seeking to explore a less commercialized side of Rajasthan. Whether you're here for the historic forts, spiritual temples, or mouth-watering cuisine, Bikaner offers something for everyone.
With this guide, you’re all set to explore this fascinating city and experience the magic of Rajasthan firsthand!
Discover the Timeless Beauty of Bikaner
Video by Rajasthan Tourism
