Visit the historic city of Bikaner

Founded in 1486 by the Rathore prince Rao Bikaji, Bikaner was once an important trade centre. Bikaner has a rich historical and architectural legacy. Called the camel country, this city in Rajasthan boasts of having one of the largest Camel Research and Breeding Farms in the world. It is said that the ship of the desert is an inseparable part of life and is used as a mode of transport. The city is famous for its sweets and snacks.

Junagarh Fort
Built in 1593 by Raja Rai Singh, a distinguished general in Emperor Akbar’s army, this fortress has never been conquered. Enter through the main gate Karan Pol, which faces the East, to magnificent palaces like Anup Mahal, Ganga Niwas and Rang Mahal constructed in red sandstone and marble. You can also visit the Har Mandir, a chapel used by the royal family for worship. The premises also houses a museum, which has an array of rich collection of the royal costumes, textiles, accessories and family portraits of the former rulers.

Lalgarh Palace
Built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in memory of his late father Maharaja Lal Singh and designed by Sir Swinton Jacob, this red sandstone palace is an architectural masterpiece. Constucted in 1902, the palace is a fusion of Rajput, Mughal and European architecture. Along with a splendid collection of paintings and hunting trophies, the palace has beautiful lattice and filigree work.

Bhandeswar Jain Temple
Believed to be the oldest monument in Bikaner, this fifteenth-century temple is decorated with rich mirror work, gold-leaf paintings and frescoes. Dedicated to the fifth Tirthankar, Sumati Nath, it is said that pure ghee and coconuts were used in laying the foundation. It has been built in red sandstone and white marble and is known for its carvings, paintings and artistically designed statues.
Ganga Government Museum
Believed to be one of the best museums in Rajasthan, it has on display archaeological discoveries from prehistoric Harrapan and the early Gupta period. Here you can see paintings, arts and craft, terracotta, pottery, carpets, coins and ancient Rajput weaponry.

Lakshmi Nath Temple
One of the oldest temples of Bikaner, it was built during the reign of Rao Lunkaran. Later developed by Maharaja Ganga Singh Ji, it houses the statues of Vishnu and Laxmi.

Karni Mata Temple
On the road to Jodhpur from Bikaner is the town of Deshnok, which is know for the Karni Mata temple. Here pilgrims worship thousands of holy rats, which it is believed, carry the souls of future Charans (children of the Goddess Durga). It is considered auspicious if a rodent touches your feet. The temple has huge solid doors of silver made by Maharaja Ganga Singh.

Shop till you drop
Bikaner is known for its bhujia, papad and rasgullas as well as for several items made out of camel hide—belts, wallets, bags and footwear. You can also pick up wooden antiques, rugs and lacquer bangles at the Government Khadi Emporium on Mahatma Gandhi Road. Other things to include in your shopping list are rangi dupatta, Kundan work, beautiful cotton fabrics and paintings. You can head to the shopping area around Kote Gate or to Junagarh Fort, which has interesting bazaars.
For your tummy
A few must-try dishes in Bikaner include khata, gatta ki sabzi, pakodi, mangodi and rabdi. Besides the spice, Bikaner is distinguished by its popular sweet Rasgullas, Raj Bhog, GaundPak, Ghevar, Fini, and Rabri.