Through its rich cultural heritage, magnificent palaces and fortifications, a haven of vibrant spirituality, and the multitude of festivals, Bikaner is a delight for history and culture buffs. From exploring the majestic palaces dotted with mirror work and vibrant frescoes to getting lost in the narrow lanes of the old city, Bikaner has many charming places waiting to steal your heart. Let’s uncover some of the top Places to Visit in Bikaner you must not miss during your vacation to the royal city of Bikaner.
Explore Bikaner Like Never Before
1. Junagarh Fort
Junagarh Fort is one of the few significant forts in Rajasthan constructed on flat terrain rather than a hilltop. It was formerly known as Chintamani before being renamed Junagarh or “Old Fort” in the early twentieth century when the reigning family relocated to Lalgarh Palace beyond the fort’s boundaries. Junagarh Fort is a work of art in terms of architecture, culture, and art. It features 7 gates and 37 palaces, temples, and pavilions, each with a distinct style and charm. You may marvel at the beautiful carvings, paintings, and mirror work that cover the fort’s walls and ceilings. The guides and museums may also teach you about the fort’s history and tales.
Timing: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
How to Reach: Junagarh Fort is located in the center of Bikaner City. Buses from the Bikaner Junction bus stand go past the fort. Alight near the Idgah public park bus stop, from where the fort is a short walk away. Autos and cycle rickshaws are also available from the bus stop and railway station to ferry you to the fort entrance.
2. Lalgarh Palace
Lalgarh Palace, a spectacular castle and historic hotel in Bikaner, Rajasthan, was constructed for Maharaja Ganga Singh between 1902 and 1926. This Indo-Saracenic masterpiece combines Rajput, Mughal, and European designs. Carvings, latticework, and filigree decorate the red sandstone castle. It has four graceful wings. The palace has exquisite rooms and suites with antique furniture, paintings, and antiquities. You can experience an indoor pool, billiards area, library, and spa. The royal restaurants feature Rajasthani and continental food. Displaying Bikaner’s royal history and culture, Lalgarh Palace is ideal for enjoying royalty with your friends.
Timing: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm (Friday Off)
How to Reach: You can reach Lalgarh Palace by taking a bus to Bikaner. The nearest bus stand to Lalgarh Palace is Bikaner Bus Stand. From there, you can take a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach Lalgarh Palace, about 4 km away.
3. Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary
Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary is a natural oasis in Rajasthan’s arid area near Bikaner. It was the Maharaja of Bikaner’s hunting field, and he erected a splendid castle on the Gajner Lake. It protects deer, antelope, nilgai, chinkara, black buck, desert fox, and migrating birds. You can enjoy a wildlife safari in the sanctuary and spot the animals in their natural habitat. Here you can also see the famous Gajner Palace, which is now a historic hotel. The palace features exquisite apartments, architecture, and dining. Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary is perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and history buffs.
Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
How to Reach: To reach Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary, take a bus to Bikaner. The nearest bus stand is Bikaner Bus Stand. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary, about 32 km away. Alternatively, you can also take a train to Gajner Railway Station, which is about 4 km away from the sanctuary.
4. Ganga Government Museum
The Ganga Government Museum in Bikaner is a must-see for history and art buffs. Maharaja Ganga Singh founded the Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum in 1937 to celebrate 50 years of monarchy. The museum displays Rajasthani and international art, sculpture, and history. Musical instruments, glassware, royal paintings, and shikar artifacts may also teach you about Bikaner’s culture and lifestyle. In the Anup Library, the museum has rare Sanskrit manuscripts, British Empire litho prints, and Harappan sculptures. You can spend a couple of hours exploring the museum and soaking in the rich heritage of Bikaner.
Timing: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
How to Reach: The museum is located on Jaipur Road, near the Junagarh Fort. The nearest bus stand is the Bikaner Bus Stand, about 2 km from the museum. You can also take an auto-rickshaw or a taxi from the bus stand to the museum.
5. Rampuria Haveli
The Rampuria Haveli in Bikaner is a great place to see the grandeur of the past. This is one of Rajasthan’s most beautiful havelis. In the 15th century, rich merchant Balujee Chalva built it for his family. The red sandstone Haveli contains ornate carvings and windows. The haveli blends Mughal, Victorian, and Rajputana elements. The haveli’s hallways and chambers are similarly stunning, filled with paintings, portraits, artifacts, and landscapes. You can walk around the haveli and admire its beauty and craftsmanship.
Timing: Open 24 hours
How to Reach: Rampuria Haveli Museum is accessible via bus from Barrackpur-II Bus Stand. Board buses to Bikaner Bus Stand and get off at Kote Gate Bus Stop, approximately 0.5 kilometer from the museum. Cover the remaining short distance on foot or by auto-rickshaw.
6. Devi Kund
Devi Kund is a peaceful and spiritual spot to visit in Bikaner. This royal crematorium with chhatris honors Bikaner’s monarchs. White marble and red sandstone cenotaphs contain exquisite carvings and domes. Each cenotaph is unique. Rao Kalyanmal Ji Bahadur (1539-1571) has the oldest cenotaph, while Maharaja Karni Singh (1950-1988) has the newest. You can visit the cenotaphs and pay your respects to the departed souls. You may also relax and enjoy the scenery.
Timing: Open 24 hours
How to Reach: You can reach Devi Kund by taking a bus to Bikaner City. The nearest bus stand is the Bikaner Bus Stand, about 8 km from Devi Kund.
7. National Research Centre On Camel
The National Research Centre on Camel is a pleasant and instructive location to visit in Bikaner with family. The center has been identified as one of the important tourist places in Bikaner and is included in the tourist book. You can see camels of different breeds and their behavior at the center. You can also visit the camel museum, which displays camels’ developmental and research aspects in the desert ecosystem. The center offers camel riding, safari, video/photography, and camel milk.
Timings: 9:00 am – 5:30 pm
How to Reach: To visit the National Research Centre on Camel, board buses ply Bikaner to Jorbeer from Bikaner Bus Stand. Get off at Shiv Bari Bus Stand, around 1.5 kilometers from the research center.
8. MG Road
If you are looking for a bustling place to visit in Bikaner, check out MG Road. This is a famous shopping avenue where you can find gorgeous chiffon, georgette and ethnic Bandhani (tie-dye) sarees at competitive prices. You can also buy leather and wood souvenirs, which are great ways to carry home the memories of Rajasthan. MG Road is not only a shopper’s paradise but also a place where you can enjoy the beauty and culture of Bikaner. You can admire the red sandstone buildings, the colorful bazaars, and the lively atmosphere of this road.
How to reach: To reach MG Road in Bikaner by bus, board any city bus from New Bus Stand. The bus will pass through MG Road. You can get down at Lakshmi Talkies stop near the intersection of MG Road and Ganga Talkies Road. Alternatively, take an auto rickshaw or cab from New Bus Stand to reach MG Road directly.
9. Sursagar Lake
Sursagar Lake is another charming place to visit in Bikaner. This is a lovely lake that Maharaja Sur Singh carved out in the 16th century to provide drinking water for the people. The lake is presently well-kept and has a picnic area surrounding it. You may relax and observe the birds and fish while admiring the tranquil vista of the lake and sky. It’s a lovely spot for a romantic picnic or a walk around the lake.
How to reach: To reach Sursagar Lake in Bikaner by bus, you can take a bus from the Bikaner Bus Stand to the Junagarh Fort near the lake. The bus ride will take about 10 minutes and cost around ₹10 per person. From the fort, you can walk for about 5 minutes to the lake.
10. Kolayat
Kolayat is another appealing Bikaner spot. The holy Kolayat Lake is the town’s claim to fame. The lake features 52 ghats and a shrine attributed to Vedic scholar Kapil Muni, who meditated here. During the Kapil Muni festival, the city’s major festival, hundreds of pilgrims and visitors visit the temple and swim in the lake. Kolayat is a place where you can experience the spirituality and culture of Bikaner and enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake and its surroundings.
How to reach: Take a bus from Bikaner railway station or Bikaner main bus stand. Regular buses run to Kolayat via the Sadulshahar highway. You can leave at the Kolayat bus stop on the highway.
Conclusion
From vibrant temples and fortresses to ancient camels and dessert shops, Bikaner offers an experience that transports you back to the days of Rajputana royalty. The red sandstone structures seem to glow against the rippling golden sands, making Bikaner a visual feast like no other. If you want to enter the past, experience the royal hospitality, and taste some of India’s most delicious sweets, no better destination is waiting for you.
