Wanna enjoy the medieval charm of a desert city and admire the beauty of its red sandstone havelis and ancient Jain temples. Visit Bikaner city and enjoy exciting camel safaris. Here, we bring in the major attractions you should not side step while in Bikaner.
Junagarh Fort
Bikaner’s Junagarh has never been conquered throughout its history. A 986m wall surrounds the fort with 37 bastions and a dry moat making it virtually impenetrable. A vast complex of palaces, suites, towers, balconies and courtyards with their carvings still intact will take you in the mighty world of kings and queens
The Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience) has a glimmering gold ceiling and houses the silver cushioned throne of the maharaja. The Phool Mahal (Flower Palace) is also a grand piece of architecture.
The Badal Mahal (Palace of the Clouds) has walls thoroughly painted with fluffy blue clouds. The Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds) has ancient Islamic art patters on its ceiling with scenes depicting Krishna dancing. The blue tiles found here were imported from China and Europe.
Timings: 10 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: INR 50 for Indians; INR 300 for Foreigners
Karni Mata Temple
This temple is situated in the South of Bikaner, 30kms away, in the town of Deshnok. Karni Mata, believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga, is thronged by lakhs of visitors to see another marvel, a massive population of rodents that co-exist with the travelling pilgrims. This temple has over 20,000 rats that scurry across the temple floors, completely at home with the crowds. The pilgrims worship these creatures and feed them prasad (religious food offerings) in the form of sugar balls.
Timings: 4:30 AM – 10 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Read more on Karni Mata temple here: https://ebnw.net/rajasthan/karni-mata-mandir-rat-temple-in-deshnok-rajasthan-history-facts-aarti-hd-photos-video/
National Research Centre on Camel
The NRCC has been doing some groundbreaking work with regard to the desert animals and the 8km trip here is definitely worth your time. With over 200 camels, at different stages of maturity, you will learn a thing or two about how important these animals are to Rajasthan. Try fresh camel milk ice cream which will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Timings: 12 PM – 6:30 PM
Entry Fee: INR 30 for Indians; INR 100 for Foreigners
Rampuria Havelis
These are the red sandstone mansions of opulenc which has the beautiful jharokias (casements) and the gumaharias (basements). This group of havelis (aristocratic mansions) was constructed in the 15th century for the wealthy Rampuria family. The red sandstone gives Rampuria Havelis a mesmerising view glow while its drawing rooms, courtyards and balconies are worth exploring.
Timings: Open through the day
Entry Fee: Free