YOUR ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE TO BIKANER

Essential Information

Country, State: India, Rajasthan
Timezone: GMT+5:30
Languages Spoken: Hindi, Rajasthani, English
Currency: Indian Rupee (INR)

Weather and Climate

October – March: Pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing. Temperature ranges from 10°C to 25°C. Ideal for exploring forts and participating in cultural festivals.
April – June: Hot and dry summer months. Temperature can soar up to 45°C. Be prepared for intense heat.
July – September: Monsoon season with moderate rainfall. Temperature ranges from 25°C to 35°C. A good time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds.

Discover Bikaner: A City Overview

Bikaner, founded in 1488 by Rao Bika, is a desert city that proudly retains its medieval charm. The city is renowned for its majestic forts, palaces, and havelis showcasing intricate Rajput architecture. It’s also famous for its unique camel breeding farms, a significant contributor to the region’s economy and culture.

Bikaner offers a vibrant cultural experience with its colorful festivals, traditional music, and dance performances. The bustling markets are filled with local handicrafts, textiles, and delicious snacks, providing a sensory feast for visitors. Despite the arid climate, Bikaner’s warm hospitality and rich heritage make it a must-visit destination in Rajasthan.

Best Time to Visit Bikaner for Optimal Weather

October – March: the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
- Pros: Comfortable temperatures, perfect for exploring attractions and enjoying cultural festivals.
- Cons: Peak tourist season, potentially higher prices for accommodation and tours.

How to Get to Bikaner & Visa Requirements

Flights: Bikaner Airport (BKB) is a domestic airport with limited connectivity. The nearest major international airport is Jaipur International Airport (JAI), approximately 330 km away. Consider booking connecting flights.
Trains: Bikaner Junction (BKN) is well-connected to major cities in India. It is advisable to book train tickets in advance.
Visa Requirements: Foreign nationals require a valid Indian visa. Check the latest visa regulations and requirements before traveling on the official government website.
Airport Transfers: Taxis and pre-booked car rentals are readily available from Jaipur Airport to Bikaner. Consider pre-booking for a hassle-free experience.

Fun/Historical Facts

Legend has it that during the construction of Junagarh Fort, the spirit of a loyal soldier, Rao Bika Ji, was invoked to protect the fort. It is believed that his spirit still guards the fort, ensuring its safety and security to this day.

Famous People from Bikaner:

Shiv Kumar Batalvi: A renowned Punjabi language poet, playwright, and writer, who was born in Bikaner. His works continue to inspire generations.

Top Things to See and Do: Bikaner Attractions

Top 10 Attractions in Bikaner

Junagarh Fort: A formidable fort with stunning architecture, housing palaces, temples, and museums.
- Address: Junagarh Fort Road, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
Laxmi Niwas Palace: A former royal residence, now a heritage hotel, showcasing Indo-Saracenic architecture. Consider booking a stay for a royal experience.
- Address: Dr Karni Singhji Road, Lalgarh, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
Karni Mata Temple (Rat Temple): A unique temple dedicated to Karni Mata, known for its large population of rats. A truly unique and fascinating experience.
- Address: Deshnoke, Rajasthan 334801
Ganga Singh Museum: Showcasing artifacts, sculptures, and paintings from the region’s history. Explore the rich history and art of Bikaner.
- Address: Public Park, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
National Research Centre on Camel: A camel breeding farm offering insights into camel husbandry and research. Enjoy a camel ride and learn about these amazing animals.
- Address: Jorbeer, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
Lalgarh Palace: An architectural marvel with intricate carvings and a blend of Rajput, Mughal, and European styles.
- Address: Dr Karni Singhji Road, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
Bhandasar Jain Temple: A beautifully decorated Jain temple with intricate mirror work and frescoes.
- Address: Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
Shri Laxminath Temple: One of the oldest temples in Bikaner, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.
- Address: Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
Shiv Bari Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, featuring intricate carvings and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Address: Near Junagarh Fort, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
Prachina Museum: A museum showcasing traditional Rajasthani textiles, costumes, and household items.
- Address: Fort Road, Junagarh, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001

Hidden Gems: Off the Beaten Path in Bikaner

Gajner Palace: A beautiful palace set amidst lush greenery, offering a tranquil escape from the city. Perfect for a relaxing getaway.
- Address: Gajner, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334301
Kolayat Ji Temple: A serene temple dedicated to Kapil Muni, located on the banks of Kolayat Lake. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and scenic beauty.
- Address: Kolayat, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334302

Local Festivals and Events in Bikaner

Bikaner Camel Festival (January): A vibrant festival showcasing camel races, dances, and cultural performances.
Gangaur Festival (March-April): A colorful festival celebrating marital happiness, with processions and traditional rituals.
International Kite Festival (January): An exciting event with kite-flying competitions and cultural displays.

Day Trips from Bikaner: Explore Beyond the City

Deshnoke – Karni Mata Temple (Approx. 30 minutes drive): Famous for the Rat Temple.
Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary (Approx. 1 hour drive): A serene sanctuary known for its diverse birdlife.
Kolayat (Approx. 1 hour drive): A pilgrimage site with a beautiful lake and Kapil Muni Temple.

Photography Hotspots: Insta-Worthy Locations in Bikaner

Junagarh Fort: The intricate architecture and colorful courtyards provide stunning backdrops.
Laxmi Niwas Palace: The opulent interiors and grand facade offer regal photo opportunities.
Karni Mata Temple (Rat Temple): A unique and fascinating subject for photography.
Sand Dunes near Bikaner: Capture the beauty of the Thar Desert at sunset.
Lalgarh Palace: The architectural grandeur and intricate details offer captivating photo opportunities.

Planning Your Stay in Bikaner

Recommended Length of Stay

2-3 days are ideal for exploring Bikaner’s major attractions.

Top Places to Stay in Bikaner

Budget-Friendly Hotels

Hotel Chirag
- Address: Opposite Railway Station, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
Hotel Sagar
- Address: Near Railway Station, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
Hotel Jaswant Bhawan
- Address: Near Junagarh Fort, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001

Mid-Range Hotels

Hotel Bhairon Vilas
- Address: Near Junagarh Fort, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
Hotel Thar Vilas
- Address: Near Junagarh Fort, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
Hotel Desert Winds
- Address: Rani Bazar, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
Hotel Raj Vilas Palace
- Address: Jaipur Road, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001

Luxury Hotels

Laxmi Niwas Palace
- Address: Dr Karni Singhji Road, Lalgarh, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
Narendra Bhawan Bikaner
- Address: Gandhi Colony, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
Gajner Palace
- Address: Gajner, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334301

Getting Around Bikaner: Transportation Options

Public Transport: Auto-rickshaws are the most common mode of public transport. Negotiate the fare beforehand.
Taxis: Taxis can be hired for full-day sightseeing. Consider booking through a reputable company.
Bikes: Renting a bike is a good option for exploring the city at your own pace.
Walking: Walking is a great way to explore the old city and markets.

Preparing for Your Trip to Bikaner: Practical Information

What to Pack for Your Bikaner Adventure

Clothing: Light, breathable cotton clothes for the summer months. Warm clothing for winter months.
Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes.
Accessories: Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, scarf to protect from the sun.
Other: Insect repellent, basic first-aid kit.

Useful Apps for Travel in Bikaner

Google Maps: For navigation and finding local attractions.
Zomato/Swiggy: For food delivery and restaurant reviews.
Ola/Uber: For booking taxis (availability may be limited).

Local Customs, Safety Tips, and Cultural Etiquette

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
Bargain respectfully when shopping.
Avoid drinking tap water.
Be wary of scams targeting tourists.
Avoid public displays of affection.
Safety Tips: Stay hydrated, especially during the summer months. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft.

Food, Fun, and Finds: Experiencing Bikaner

Top Restaurants in Bikaner

Gallops Restaurant: Offers a variety of Indian and Continental dishes in a pleasant setting.
- Address: Near Junagarh Fort, Bikaner
Heeralal’s Restaurant: Known for its traditional Rajasthani cuisine.
- Address: Near Railway Station, Bikaner
Chhotu Motu Joshi Sweet Shop: Famous for its local sweets and snacks.
- Address: Kote Gate, Bikaner

Must-Try Dishes

Bikaneri Bhujia: A spicy and crunchy snack made from moth beans.
Gatte ki Sabzi: A traditional Rajasthani dish made from gram flour dumplings.
Ker Sangri: A local delicacy made from dried berries and beans.
Rasgulla: Bikaner is known for its delicious Rasgullas.

Nightlife and Entertainment in Bikaner

The Sky Lounge (Hotel Thar Vilas): Offers a rooftop dining experience with scenic views.
- Address: Near Junagarh Fort, Bikaner
Some hotels offer cultural performances: Check with your hotel for details.

Souvenirs and Markets: What to Buy in Bikaner

Kote Gate Market: A bustling market selling local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
- Address: Kote Gate, Bikaner
MG Road Market: Offers a variety of clothing, jewelry, and footwear.
- Address: MG Road, Bikaner
Bikaneri Bhujia: A must-buy souvenir from Bikaner.
- Address: Available at various shops across the city
Camel Leather Products: Leather items made from camel skin are popular souvenirs.
- Address: Available at various shops across the city