Bikaner - Discovering India

Travelling to Bikaner

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Bikaner, a pretty good destination in India (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Bikaner and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Bikaner, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through India, here's everything to know about Bikaner for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Bikaner

Bikaner is a city located in the northwestern state of Rajasthan, India. It is known for its rich culture, magnificent palaces, and intricately-designed temples. Bikaner is famous for its savory snacks and sweets, such as bhujiya, rasgulla, and gujiya. The city is home to several historic attractions, such as the Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, and Karni Mata Temple. Bikaner is also a popular destination for camel safaris and is often referred to as the "Camel Country" of India. The best time to visit Bikaner is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and favorable for tourists.

What to visit in Bikaner

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Bikaner, India along with some brief information: 1. Junagarh Fort - This is a massive fort built in the 16th century and is one of the most important tourist attractions in Bikaner. The fort has several palaces and temples, with beautiful stone carvings and frescoes.
2. Karni Mata Temple - Also known as the Rat Temple, it is a unique temple that houses thousands of rats, which are considered sacred.
3. Gajner Palace and Lake - Built in the early 20th century, this palace is now a luxury hotel. Visitors can take a boat ride on the adjoining lake and spot migratory birds.
4. Bikaner Camel Safari - A great way to explore the desert in and around Bikaner is to take a camel safari. You can choose from short or long rides, and even stay overnight in the desert.
5. National Research Centre on Camel - This is a research center dedicated to studying and promoting the use of camels in rural areas. Visitors can learn about the various breeds of camels and their uses.
6. Shiv Bari Temple - One of the oldest temples in Bikaner, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has beautiful silver doors.
7. Lalgarh Palace - Another grand palace turned hotel, it was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in memory of his father. The palace has a blend of Rajput, Mughal, and European architectural styles.
8. Camel Festival - It is a festival held annually in Bikaner's sand dunes where camels are dressed up and paraded. The festival also includes camel races, camel beauty pageants, and traditional Rajasthani music and dance performances.
These are just a few of the top tourist attractions in Bikaner, but there are many more worth exploring in this beautiful desert city of Rajasthan.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in India, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Bikaner.

When to go on holiday to Bikaner

The best time to visit Bikaner is from October to March. During these months, the weather is pleasant with cool evenings and warm days, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and other outdoor activities. However, if you want to experience the famous Bikaner Camel Festival, which takes place in January, that would also be a good time to plan your trip. Keep in mind that the temperature during the summer months of April to June can reach very high levels, making it less enjoyable to travel during this period.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Bikaner

To get to Bikaner, you can take a flight or train as there is no direct bus service available from many major cities in India.
By air: The nearest airport to Bikaner is Jodhpur airport which is around 251 km away. From Jodhpur, you can take a taxi or a bus to Bikaner. There are also flights from Delhi to Bikaner, but the frequency of these flights is limited.
By train: Bikaner has its own railway station, which is well connected to major cities such as Delhi, Jodhpur, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. You can take a train from any of these cities to reach Bikaner.
By road: Bikaner is well connected by road to major cities such as Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Delhi. You can take a bus or hire a private taxi to reach Bikaner.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Bikaner, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Bikaner

Bikaner is known for its rich and diverse culinary tradition, which is influenced by both Rajasthani and Mughlai cuisines. Some of the typical foods of Bikaner along with a short description for each of them are: 1. Bikaneri Bhujia: It is a spicy and crispy snack made from gram flour and spices, and is a popular delicacy of Bikaner.
2. Kachori: It is a savory pastry filled with spiced lentils or onion and potato mixture. The kachoris of Bikaner are famous for their unique taste and texture.
3. Ghevar: It is a sweet dish made from flour, sugar syrup, and ghee. It is a popular dessert during the festive season, and is often served with rabri.
4. Dal Baati Churma: It is a Rajasthani specialty consisting of baked wheat dumplings (baati) served with a spicy lentil curry (dal) and a sweet crumbled wheat mixture (churma).
5. Chana Masala: It is a spicy north Indian dish made from chickpeas cooked in a tomato and onion based gravy, and is served with roti or rice.
6. Raj Kachori: It is a larger version of the kachori and is filled with a variety of different ingredients like potatoes, chickpeas, yogurt, and chutneys.
7. Sohan Halwa: It is a rich and dense dessert made from wheat flour, sugar, ghee, and dry fruits. It has a sticky and chewy texture and is often served as a festive dessert.
You can find general info about typical foods in India here.

Is Bikaner an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other popular tourist destinations in India, Bikaner is generally considered to be a more affordable destination. The cost of accommodation, food and transportation are relatively low. However, it is important to note that the cost of activities and tourist attractions can vary depending on the season and demand. It is always a good idea to plan and budget accordingly for any trip, and to research specific costs of activities or experiences you may want to have in Bikaner.

Where to find accomodation in Bikaner

To visit Bikaner, it's best to find accommodation in the Old City or the surrounding areas. These areas offer easy access to the major tourist attractions, including the Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, and the Old City market. Another popular area to stay is near the Bikaner railway station, which is convenient for those who are arriving by train. Additionally, there are many budget-friendly options available for backpackers and travelers on a budget.
You can check hotel prices at Bikaner here:
Booking.com

Is Bikaner a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Bikaner is generally considered a safe place for tourists in India. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautionary measures to ensure your safety while traveling. Here are some tips: 1. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.
2. Stick to well-lit and busy streets, and avoid alleys and deserted areas.
3. Dress appropriately and modestly to respect local customs and avoid unwanted attention.
4. Watch your belongings and keep your valuables close to you.
5. Use common sense and trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable or unsure about a situation, it's best to avoid it.
Overall, Bikaner is a great destination for tourists and the locals are known for being friendly and welcoming.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in India here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Bikaner.

What type of travelers will enjoy Bikaner the most?

Bikaner, India is a place that can be enjoyed by a variety of different types of travelers. Couples may enjoy the romantic atmosphere of the city and its many historic sites and landmarks. They might also appreciate the city's impressive camel farm and riding opportunities.
Young people looking for fun can explore the bustling markets and immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of the city. They may also enjoy the adventurous activities that are available in the surrounding desert, such as sandboarding and dune bashing.
Families can experience the rich history and traditions of the city by visiting the many palaces, forts, and temples. The city also has many parks and gardens that families can explore, as well as a zoo that is home to various exotic animals. In summary, Bikaner offers a diverse range of experiences that can appeal to different types of travelers including couples, young people looking for fun and families.

How to get around Bikaner

The best way to move around Bikaner is by a car or a taxi. There are also auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws available for short distances within the city. However, it is recommended to negotiate and fix the fare before getting into the auto-rickshaws or cycle-rickshaws. Buses are also available, but they can be quite crowded and not very comfortable.

What to see around Bikaner

Here are some great places that you can visit on a day trip from Bikaner: 1. Deshnok Temple: Famous for its resident rats, this temple is a unique place to visit and is just a short drive from Bikaner.
2. Karni Mata Wildlife Sanctuary: Located around 45 km from Bikaner, this sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife including the Indian wild ass.
3. Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary: Located around 32 km from Bikaner, this is another great place for nature lovers. The sanctuary is known for its variety of birdlife and deer.
4. Devi Kund Sagar: This is a beautiful and peaceful lake situated around 8 km from Bikaner. It is surrounded by temples and a great place for a picnic.
5. Kolayat: This is a holy city located around 50 km from Bikaner. It is known for its temples and holy lake and attracts a lot of pilgrims.
6. Rat Temple: Also known as the Karni Mata Temple, this is a must-visit place for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable experience.
7. National Research Centre on Camel: Located around 10 km from Bikaner, this is a research center focused on camels. You can learn a lot about the animals and their role in the local culture.
I hope this list helps you plan your day trips from the city!
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