When we think of Bikaner, we often picture one of Rajasthan’s most royal and regal cities—and rightly so. Alongside its royal heritage, the city has gained nationwide fame for its beloved Bikaneri Bhujia. But to truly understand Bikaner, one must explore its key attractions and landmarks. Nestled in the heart of the vast golden Thar Desert, Bikaner was founded in 1488 by Rao Bika of the Rathore dynasty. The city reflects a rich Rajput history, boasting magnificent havelis, palaces, temples, and museums that transport visitors to a bygone era. In Bikaner, history, culture, and warm hospitality come alive, leaving an unforgettable impression.
# Junagarh FortOne of Bikaner’s most iconic attractions, Junagarh Fort, was originally constructed in 1478 by Maharaja Rao Bika, the city’s founder. Subsequent rulers, including Raja Rai Singh (1571–1611) and Karan Singh (1631–1639), added their touches to the fort. Over 16 generations, the fort evolved into the stunning complex it is today. With its temples, palaces, balconies, courtyards, and windows showcasing exquisite craftsmanship, Junagarh Fort is a must-visit. The Zenana quarters, in particular, captivate visitors with intricate designs, colorful frescoes, mirror work, and lacquer artistry. Built primarily in Indo-Mughal style with red sandstone from Jaisalmer, the fort features numerous palaces such as Badal Mahal, Gaj Mandir Palace, Phool Mahal, Anup Mahal, Hawa Mahal, and Vikram Vilas Palace. Unlike many forts built for defense, Junagarh was constructed at a lower elevation to display the city’s wealth and grandeur.
# Gajner PalaceNow operating as a heritage hotel, Gajner Palace was once the royal summer residence of Maharaja Sir Ganga Singh. Located about 20 km from Bikaner along the scenic Gajner Lake, the palace is a top destination for visitors. Guests can stay in its luxurious rooms to experience royal hospitality or opt for a day visit. The palace is divided into sections such as Dungar Niwas, Mandir Chowk, Gulab Niwas, and Champa Niwas, each meticulously maintained. Featuring terraces, artistic balconies, and stylish interiors, Gajner Palace sits on 6,000 acres and was originally a summer retreat and later a hunting lodge, frequented even by the British. Its architecture combines Rajasthani, Mughal, and European styles, and the surrounding area offers wildlife spotting, desert safaris, nature walks, and boating. Converted into a heritage hotel in 1976, Gajner Palace is a must-see in Bikaner.
# Karni Mata TempleThe Karni Mata Temple in Bikaner is one of the most unique temples in the world and a major tourist attraction in Rajasthan. Dating back to the 15th century, it is dedicated to Karni Mata, regarded as an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The temple is famous for its resident rats, believed to be reincarnated members of Karni Mata’s family. Devotees consider it highly auspicious if a rat crosses their feet, especially a white one. Around 20,000 rats reside here, and pilgrims often feed them. Visiting during the Karni Mata Festival, held twice a year during Navratri, offers a unique cultural experience.
#National Research Centre on Camels
A fascinating destination in Bikaner is the National Research Centre on Camels, located about 8 km from the city. This breeding and research facility houses camels from five breeds: Bikaneri, Jaisalmeri, Kachchhi, Mewari, and Jalori. Visitors can enjoy camel rides and safaris, explore the center’s museum showcasing camel history and research, and sample camel milk products such as ice creams and beverages. Spanning 2,000 acres, the center also supports local camel herders by sharing research insights for better animal care.
# Sand Dunes SafariNo trip to Bikaner is complete without a desert safari. With its proximity to the Thar Desert, Bikaner offers sand dune adventures, camel rides, and overnight stays in desert camps. These experiences provide insight into local desert life, traditional culture, and wildlife such as antelope, foxes, jackals, nilgai, desert cats, chameleons, and monitor lizards. Visitors can explore villages like Raisar, Khichan, Balakaya Dhora, and Phalodi, enjoying folk music, dance, and the magical sunsets over the golden sands. Desert safaris are a highlight of Bikaner tourism, offering both adventure and a deep connection with the desert landscape.
# Rampuria HaveliA stunning example of Rajputana architecture, Rampuria Haveli is among the must-visit attractions in Bikaner. Actually a cluster of nine havelis built in the 15th century by the Rampuria merchant family, these structures are made of Dulmera red sandstone and showcase exquisite craftsmanship. The opulent interiors, adorned with elegant artifacts, golden paintings, and intricate woodwork, draw visitors from far and wide. One of the havelis, now functioning as a heritage hotel called Hotel Bhanwar Niwas, is run by the Rampuria family, allowing guests to experience royal living firsthand.
Blending Mughal, Victorian, and Rajput architectural elements, Rampuria Haveli is a visual delight and one of the most photographed sites in the city. Its intricately carved façades and detailed artistry highlight the skills of Bikaner’s local artisans, providing a glimpse into the luxurious lives of the wealthy merchants who commissioned it. Located in the heart of the city, Rampuria Haveli offers a journey back in time, making it an unmissable attraction in Bikaner.
# Bhandasar Jain TempleDedicated to the 5th Jain Tirthankara, Sumatinath, Bhandasar Jain Temple is one of Bikaner’s most revered Jain shrines. Constructed in the 15th century and completed in the early 16th century, this three-storied temple is celebrated for its Rajputana architecture. The ground floor houses a marble statue of Tirthankara Sumatinath on a silver throne, surrounded by intricately carved sandstone pillars. The temple’s gold leaf walls, marble pillars, ornate ceilings, and mirror work make it an architectural marvel. Frescoes depicting the stories of the 24 Jain Tirthankaras add to its charm.
Built by the wealthy merchant Bhandasa Oswal, the temple is unique for using 40,000 kg of ghee instead of water as mortar during construction. Visitors are expected to remove leather items before entering, in keeping with Jain customs. The serene atmosphere allows for quiet reflection, making it a peaceful yet visually stunning destination.
# Royal Cenotaphs (Devi Kund Sagar)About 8 km east of Bikaner lies Devi Kund Sagar, the cremation ground of Bikaner’s royal family. Here, the Royal Cenotaphs honor past rulers and are among the top historic sites in the city. These cenotaphs exemplify Rajputana architecture, with early monuments made of Dulmera red sandstone and later ones in marble.
Cenotaphs vary based on whom they commemorate: men have vertical slabs, women’s monuments include foot imprints, and children’s memorials are simple structures without canopies. Highlights include the cenotaph of Maharaja Anup Singh (1669–1698), built on 16 pillars and adorned with intricate carvings of peacocks, animals, and stories of Lord Krishna. The earliest cenotaph belongs to Rao Kalyanmal (1541–1571), while the latest honors Maharaja Karni Singh (1950–1988). Visiting these cenotaphs offers insight into royal rites, rituals, and architectural grandeur.
# Lallgarh Palace and MuseumLallgarh Palace, an architectural gem built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in the early 20th century, is a source of pride for Bikaner. Designed by British architect Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob, the palace now functions as a heritage hotel, allowing visitors to experience its grandeur firsthand. Its Rajputana architecture, combined with Mughal and British influences, and tasteful interiors, make it a top attraction. The palace also features an indoor swimming pool for guests.
Within Lallgarh Palace, the Shri Sadul Museum showcases the city’s history and culture. Visitors can explore miniature paintings of the Bikaner School of Art, royal armory, terracotta artifacts, and a library housing Sanskrit manuscripts on silver, copper, and gold plaques. Exhibits also include relics from the Harappan, Kushan, and Gupta periods, offering a comprehensive look at Bikaner’s royal heritage.
# Gajner Wildlife SanctuaryLocated about 32 km from Bikaner, Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Once a hunting ground for Maharaja Ganga Singh, it now preserves the region’s flora and fauna. The sanctuary is home to animals such as Chinkara, Black Buck, Nilgai, Desert Fox, and Wild Boar, along with a variety of resident and migratory birds, including Sandgrouse, Demoiselle Cranes, and Houbara Bustards. Safaris here allow visitors to experience wildlife up close, with opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography. The sanctuary is conveniently visited alongside Gajner Palace and Lake.
# Kote GateKote Gate, separating old and new Bikaner, is a city landmark and a prime destination for exploration. This architectural marvel marks the main entrance to the old city, with grand Rajputana havelis on one side and a bustling bazaar on the other. The market is perfect for shopping local handicrafts, miniature paintings, camel hide products, traditional sweets, Bikaneri bhujia, and camel milk tea. Kote Gate is both visually stunning and culturally vibrant, offering visitors a true taste of Bikaner life.
# Shiv Bari TempleShiv Bari Temple, also called Laleshwar Mahadev, is a revered shrine built in 1880 by Maharaja Doongar Singh in honor of his father, Maharaja Lal Singh. Located about 6 km from the city, the temple features a four-faced black stone idol of Lord Shiva, accompanied by a bronze Nandi statue. Red sandstone pavilions, domes, and intricately carved statues, including depictions of Lord Krishna with his gopis, add to the temple’s beauty. It attracts large crowds during the Hindu month of Shravana.
# Kodamdesar TempleSituated in Kodamdesar village, Kodamdesar Temple is unique in its simplicity. Built in 1465 by Rao Bika, the founder of Bikaner, the temple consists of a statue of Lord Bhairon Ji on a marble platform, with no roof or hall. Dogs, considered the carriers of Bhairon Ji, freely roam the premises. The temple is a popular destination for newlyweds and parents performing their children’s first mundan (head-shaving) ceremonies, especially during the Bhadrapad Fair.
# Shri Laxminath TempleShri Laxminath Temple, one of the oldest temples in Bikaner, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. Built by Maharaja Rao Lunkaran and later enhanced by Maharaja Ganga Singh, it is located about 4 km from Junagarh Fort. The temple is made of red sandstone from Jaisalmer and white marble, featuring intricate carvings and silver art on doorways. The complex also houses shrines dedicated to Shri Suryanarayanji, Shri Neelkanth Mahadev, Shri Roopchaturbujji, Shri Badrinarayanji, and Shri Magavidyaji. Festivals like Janmashtami, Ramnavami, Diwali, and Nirjala Ekadashi see devotees flocking here in large numbers.
# Prachina MuseumEstablished in 2000 by Princess Siddhi Kumari, Prachina Museum inside Junagarh Fort preserves Bikaner’s cultural heritage. The museum features royal costumes, textiles, family portraits, religious artifacts, aristocratic vehicles, and personal belongings of the royal family. Its galleries include the Contemporary Art Gallery, Ritual Art Gallery, Bikaner Period Room, Aristocratic Textiles and Costume Gallery, and Gallery of Aristocratic Transportation. Prachina Museum offers an immersive look at the history, culture, and lifestyle of Bikaner’s royalty.
# Ganga Golden Jubilee MuseumBuilt in 1937 by Maharaja Ganga Singh to commemorate 50 years of his rule, the Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum is a haven for history enthusiasts. It houses artifacts, sculptures, jade-studded weapons, terracotta wares, and relics from the Indus Valley and Harappan civilizations. Highlights include an 11th–12th century marble sculpture of Jain Saraswati and a 10th–11th century bronze statue of a “Nartaki.” The museum also displays lacquer work on wood, metal, stone, glass, leather, and ostrich eggs. Sections include lithographic prints of the 1857 war, miniature paintings, folk art, royal armory, and more.
# Shri Sadul MuseumSituated inside Lallgarh Palace, Shri Sadul Museum offers a detailed view of the Rathore royal family of Bikaner. Artifacts on display include Maharaja Sadul Singh’s railway carriage, Maharaja Karni Singh’s golf clubs and hairbrush, miniature paintings, royal armors, and terracotta wares. The museum also houses a library with numerous Sanskrit manuscripts and showcases artifacts from the Harappan, Kushan, and Gupta periods, providing a rich understanding of Bikaner’s royal history and culture.
# Old City BikanerThe old city of Bikaner is a maze of narrow lanes, historic havelis, and notable Jain temples, giving it a medieval charm. Its 18th-century wall and five entrance gates, including the iconic triple-arched Kote Gate, offer a glimpse into the city’s past. Exploring this area allows visitors to experience Bikaner’s heritage firsthand, with opportunities to discover historic structures alongside contemporary shops and eateries.
# Urmul Desert Crafts StoreRun by the Urmul Trust, Urmul Desert Crafts Store is the perfect place to shop for authentic Bikaner handicrafts while supporting a social cause. Located 1.4 km northeast of Junagarh Fort, the store sells blankets, bags, shirts, and cushion covers made by local village artisans. Purchases help fund women’s education, eye care services, and promote women’s rights in desert communities. By supporting these crafts, visitors contribute to preserving the region’s art and culture while empowering local artisans economically.