Bikaner

Bikaner was founded in 1488 by a descendant of the founder of Jodhpur named Rao Bhikaji. The city is encircled by high fortifications comprising a 7 km long wall which bounds the old city and has 5 entrances. All these were established in the 18th century. Bikaner, the sprawling desert city of Rajasthan is an interesting site of traditional Rajasthani attractions, well-fed camels and citadels. This camel country is also famous for its exotic camel safaris, its gorgeous forts and the worship of thousands of holy rats at Mata Kali temple..

Travel to the fortified city of Bikaner, the city that retains the splendor of city lifestyle. Dating back to the 1488 AD, your Bikaner travel will enable you to come close to the heritage of the bygone era. Bhandasar Jain Temple, Camel Research Farm, Devi Kund, Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary are few of the famous tourists attraction of Bikaner.

Bikaner is also popularly known as the 'Camel City of Rajasthan'. Bikaner lies on the ancient caravan routes that linked Western/Central Asia and North India with the seaports of Gujarat. Bikaner thus flourished as a major trade center during the medieval period. The kingdom of Bikaner was established by a Rathore Prince, Rao Bikaji, son of the founder of Jodhpur. He was able to carve out a state named after him after hardship of 30 years.

Tourist Attractions in Bikaner

Karni Mata temple

Karni Mata temple is situated 30 kms from Bikaner, in the small village called Deshnok. The temple is dedicated to an early fifteenth century mystic who was considered to be a reincarnation of goddess Durga. The temple is considered very holy. The whole temple was built by a ruler of Bikaner, Ganga Singh. A unique feature of the temple is that it offers shelters to thousands of rats. According to myths, these rats are the re-born descedants of the Charan clad. Rats here are worshipped. People from far and wide come to pay religious tribute to Karni mata. Throughout the year there's an influx of pilgrims. During the time of navratri thousands flock to mata's temple on foot. A fair is also organised during the Navratra days.

Junagarh Fort

Raised by Rai Singh during the period of 1588 to 1593, the Junagarh Fort has a 986 m long wall with 37 bastions, a moat and two entrances. It massive structure is very prominent in the city and can be seen from a distance. Its most unusual feature is that it was built at ground level and not on high ground. The fort and its palaces are elaborately defined with magnificent stone carvings. The major attractions within the fort contains the Anup Mahal, Diwan-e-Khas, Hawa Mahal, Badal Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Phool Mahal, Rang Mahal, Dungar Mahal, and Ganga Mahal.

Lalgarh Palace

The Lalgarh Palace built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in the memory of his father is an architectural splendour in red sandstone. It is situated 3 kms north of Bikaner city. Designed by Sir Swinton Jacob, it has beautiful latticework and filigree work in sandstone. The palace is quite entirely imposing with overhanging balconies and delicate latticework. The gardens with wandering peacocks and blooming bougainvillea welcome the visitors to the palace.