8 Must Visit Places in Bikaner

Bikaner, often celebrated as one of Rajasthan’s regal cities, lives up to its royal reputation. While it's widely known for the beloved Bikaneri Bhujia that has won hearts across the country, the city holds much more beneath its surface. To truly appreciate Bikaner, one must explore the fascinating places in and around it.

Nestled in the heart of the vast Thar Desert, Bikaner was founded in 1488 by Rao Bika, a Rathore prince. The city offers a compelling blend of history, culture, and architecture with its grand havelis, forts, temples, and museums—each echoing tales of a glorious Rajput past. A visit to Bikaner is like stepping into a bygone era, complete with unmatched hospitality and timeless traditions.

# Junagarh Fort

Among Bikaner's most iconic landmarks, Junagarh Fort stands tall as a symbol of architectural brilliance. Though its foundation was laid by Rao Bika in 1478, much of the present structure was built by Raja Rai Singh (1571–1611) and further enhanced by his successors—16 generations contributed to shaping the fort as it is today.

The fort complex is adorned with palaces and temples, reflecting a rich Indo-Mughal style. Noteworthy palaces within the fort include Badal Mahal, Gaj Mandir, Phool Mahal, Anup Mahal, Hawa Mahal, and Vikram Vilas Palace. Its ornate balconies, courtyards, and mirror-studded zenana quarters, along with colorful frescoes and lacquer work, make Junagarh Fort a top attraction in Bikaner.

# Gajner Palace

Located about 20 km from Bikaner along the serene Gajner Lake, Gajner Palace was once the summer residence of Maharaja Ganga Singh. Today, it serves as a luxurious heritage hotel. Whether you choose to stay overnight or visit for a day, the palace promises a royal experience.

Divided into sections like Dungar Niwas, Gulab Niwas, Mandir Chowk, and Champa Niwas, each wing is a testament to intricate design. The palace's red sandstone architecture beautifully combines Rajasthani, Mughal, and European influences. Once used as a hunting lodge by the British, the palace today is surrounded by wildlife such as Nilgai, Chinkara, and Blackbuck. You can also enjoy boating, nature walks, and desert safaris near the property.

# Karni Mata Temple

Famous for its unusual residents—rats—Karni Mata Temple in Deshnoke (about 30 km from Bikaner) is among the most unique temples in the world. Dedicated to Karni Mata, believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga, this 15th-century shrine houses over 20,000 rats, revered as sacred.

Legend says when Karni Mata’s son died, she implored Lord Yama to bring him back. Upon refusal, she resurrected him herself and declared that her family would henceforth be reborn as rats. It is considered auspicious if a rat runs over your feet, even more so if it’s a white rat. The best time to visit is during the Karni Mata Festival, held twice yearly during Navratri.

# National Research Centre on Camel

An offbeat yet enriching stop, the National Research Centre on Camel is located about 8 km from Bikaner. Dedicated to camel breeding and research, the center houses multiple camel breeds such as Bikaneri, Jaisalmeri, Kachchhi, Mewari, and Jalori.

Visitors can explore a museum, enjoy camel rides and safaris, and taste unique camel milk products like ice cream and beverages. Spanning over 2,000 acres, the center also assists local camel rearers with research and development support.

# Sand Dunes Safari

For those looking to experience the essence of desert life, a sand dune safari in Bikaner is a must. These excursions typically include camel rides, sunset views, and overnight stays in desert camps. Along with traditional Rajasthani music and folk dances, you might also spot desert wildlife like foxes, jackals, nilgai, chameleons, and more.

Popular spots for desert safaris include Raisar, Khichan, Balakaya Dhora, and Phalodi. Whether you choose a short ride or an overnight camp, the experience promises a deep cultural immersion and breathtaking views of the golden Thar sands.

# Rampuria Haveli

A marvel of Rajputana architecture, Rampuria Haveli is a cluster of nine grand havelis built in the 15th century by the wealthy Rampuria merchant family. Constructed using red Dulmera sandstone, these havelis feature opulent interiors with golden work, intricate wood carvings, and exquisite frescoes.

Today, one of these havelis—Hotel Bhanwar Niwas—operates as a heritage hotel, allowing visitors to live like royalty. The architectural style of the havelis blends Mughal, Victorian, and Rajput elements, making them one of the most photographed sites in Bikaner.

# Bhandasar Jain Temple

One of the most famous Jain temples in Bikaner, Bhandasar Jain Temple is dedicated to the 5th Jain Tirthankara, Sumatinath. Built in the 15th century and completed in the early 16th, the three-storied temple is admired for its sandstone and marble construction, gold-leaf paintings, mirror work, and elaborately carved pillars and ceilings.

An interesting legend states that the temple was built using 40,000 kg of ghee instead of water as mortar. With its peaceful ambiance and artistic brilliance, Bhandasar Jain Temple offers both spiritual calm and architectural wonder.

# The Royal Cenotaphs at Devi Kund Sagar

Situated 8 km east of Bikaner, Devi Kund Sagar is the royal cremation ground for Bikaner’s former rulers. This sacred site is home to numerous cenotaphs built in memory of kings, queens, and royal children. Made from red sandstone or marble, each cenotaph reflects the unique identity of the person it commemorates.

The cenotaph of Maharaja Anup Singh is particularly notable, supported by 16 intricately carved pillars adorned with motifs of birds, animals, and divine tales. From Rao Kalyanmal to Maharaja Karni Singh, this site chronicles the rich legacy of Bikaner’s royal lineage.