If you love to be associated with a city that has a rich cultural heritage, you need to be in Bikaner. The city was established in the year 1488 AD by Rao Bika Ji, a Rajput prince. The city is known for producing great warriors. The excavations from this city prove that the civilization was at its peak here even before Harappan civilization. Imposing palaces, forts and stunning temples with great architecture boast of the finesse of the Rajput civilization.
Languages: Hindi, English and Rajasthani
Best Time to Visit: September to April
Temperature: S(28 o C to 46 o C) & Winter (4 o C to 23 o C)
Climate: Extreme
Nearest Railway: Bikaner
Nearest Airport: Jodhpur
Junagarh Fort
Famous for: History, Architecture, Photography.
Opening Timings: Open all days (10 AM – 4:30 PM).
Junagarh Fort was constructed in the year 1593 by Raja Rai Singh. It is believed that crocodiles were bred in the water moat surrounding the formidable fort. The construction is a fine blend of Mughal, Gujarati and Rajput style of architecture. The picturesque courtyards beautify the fort. The amazing architecture inside the fort inspires you. Some of the attractions inside the fort are Anup Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Hawa Mahal, Dungar Mahal, Diwan-e-khas and Ganga Mahal.
• Visit the fort's museum.
• Have a tour of the armoury section.
Lalgarh Palace
Famous for: History, Architecture, Photography.
Opening Timings: Museum open all days except Sunday (10 AM – 5 PM).
Lalgarh Palace was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in the year 1902 in memory of his father Maharaja Lal Singh Ji. The red sandstone construction is a stupendous example of the architectural brilliance of the past. Mughal, Rajput and European architectures blend excellently well. The massive lawns houses peacocks, which are a sight to watch when they dance. You could find library, cards room and billiards room among various other rooms. Lalgarh Palace is a feast to your eyes and architects’ delight. Most of the palace apart from the museum is not accessible to the public as this palace has been converted to a luxury hotel.
• Visit The Shri Sadul Museum.
• Take a look at the fourth largest private library in the world.
• A visit to Laxmi Niwas Palace luxury hotel, if you have money to splurge.
National Research Centre on Camel
Famous For: History, Architecture, Photography.
Visiting Time: Open all days (3 PM – 6 PM).
A unique research centre devoted entirely to camels of over four breeds, National Research Centre on Camel is a must visit to observe camels in their best habitat. There are over 400 camels of over four breeds and they also include baby camels. Bikaner is well known for its camel population since the British, who used camels from Bikaner during WWI for their army. This is also a well known breeding ground for camels.
• Sample food made from camel milk like ice creams.
• Shop for souvenirs.
• Go for camel riding.
Shri Laxminath Temple
Famous for: Pilgrimage, History, Architecture, Photography.
Visiting Time: Open all days (5AM to 1PM & 5 PM to 11PM).
Established around 1526 by Maharaja Lunkaran of Bikaner, Shri Laxminath Temple is one of the oldest temples around Bikaner. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi who are considered to be the main deities of Bikaner. It is built from white marble and red sandstone from Jaisalmer and is also beautifully decorated with many beautiful paintings and sculptures. Also, the doorway has some intricate handiwork done in silver.
• Visit the Junagarh Fort.
• Have a look at the Bhandasar Jain Temple.
Ganga Singh Museum
Famous for: History, Architecture, Culture.
Opening Timings: Open all days except Fridays and govt. holidays (10 AM – 4:30 PM).
Ganga Singh Museum was founded by Maharaja Ganga Singh in the year 1937. It houses articles of historical importance that go to show that the society was civilized even before the emergence of Harappan civilization. Some of the stunning collections include paintings, pottery, weapons used by Rajputs and a lot more. The paintings on golf leaves are excellent.
• Visit nearby attractions like Lalgarh Palace.
• Sample some Rajasthani cuisines.
Sadul Singh Museum
Famous for: History, Architecture, Culture.
Opening Timings: Open all weekdays (10 AM – 5 PM).
Sadul Singh Museum is on the first floor of Lalgarh palace. The lives and the passions of the three successive kings of Bikaner are reflected in the art museum. The rare artifacts, Georgian paintings, and the photographs seen here stand proof of the interests and the heroics of the three kings namely Maharaja Ganga Singh, Sadul Singh and Karni Singh.
• Go shopping at the nearby bazaars.
• Camel Riding.
Jain Temple
Famous for: Pilgrimage, History, Architecture, Photography.
Opening Timings: Open all days.
Jain Temple was commissioned by Bhandasa Oswal in the year 1468 and completed in the year 1514. Rajputana architecture in its excellence is evident in the construction of this temple. The unique and intricately designed temple, sculpted pillars, frescos and the gold leaf work inspire the visitor. With a blend of red sandstone and white marble used in the construction, the three-storied Jain Temple stands unique and commands admiration. The mirror work in the temple is unique as well.
• Shop at the Sardar Bazar.
• Enjoy Rajasthani cuisines.
Some other attractions around the city include, Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary, Camel Safari Day Tours, Karni Mata Temple, Prachina Museum and Bhatton Ka Chowk.