15 Best Places To Visit In Bikaner

Bikaner is one of those places that encapsulates the beauty, cultural and paradisiacal experiences. It is the part of India that brings all the essentials of luxury traveling with palatial exposure. With the Thar Desert as a backdrop, the glorious history, and luxe scenery of Bikaner attracts thousands of tourists from both India and beyond each year. Ranging from beautiful temples and illustrious palaces to gigantic forts to perceptive museums, there are plenty of places to visit in Bikaner.

Top 15 Famous Places To Visit In Bikaner

Here, we will talk about the 15 most extraordinary places to visit in Bikaner to get to know the town’s history, culture, and traditions better. Hope you enjoy reading this!

• Lalgarh Palace
• Junagarh Fort
• Gajner Palace & Wildlife Sanctuary
• Laxmi Niwas Palace
• Bikaji Ki Tekri
• Rampuria Haveli
• Prachina Museum
• Sadul Singh Museum
• Thar Desert
• Devi Kund Sagar
• Ganga Singh Museum
• Kote Gate
• Sursagar Lake
• Karni Mata Temple
• Ratan Bihari Temple

1. Lalgarh Palace

When you are exploring Rajasthan, you will hardly find any city or town without any palace in its vicinity. And, Bikaner has its own epitome of luxury, the extravagant Lalgarh Palace. This palace is a melting pot of Rajputana-styled architecture interspersed with European and Mughal styles. The palace holds strong historical relevance and looks picturesque during the evening. 

2. Junagarh Fort

One of the most historical places to visit in Bikaner, Junagarh Fort is very famous for its interesting folklores. With the exquisite Mughal and Gujarati-inspired architecture, Junagarh Fort stays in your memory as a unique defense building. The fort is immensely beautiful and would pique your interest with just one look.  

Things to do:

• Explore the fort’s impressive architecture, which combines Rajput, Mughal, and Gujarati styles, seen in its red sandstone and marble structures.
• Visit the grand palaces inside the fort, including Karan Mahal, Phool Mahal, Anup Mahal, and Chandra Mahal, each adorned with intricate mirror work, frescoes, and gold leaf decorations.
• Admire the detailed carvings and paintings in Badal Mahal, depicting scenes of Lord Krishna and Radha amidst rain clouds.
• Discover the rich history at the Junagarh Fort Museum, home to artifacts like ancient weapons, royal costumes, manuscripts, and miniature paintings.
• Pay a visit to Har Mandir, the private royal temple dedicated to Lord Lakshmi Narayan.

3. Gajner Palace & Wildlife Sanctuary

Surrounded by a dense forest, the Gajner Palace is built out of red stone, which is located on the banks of the sparkling Gajner Lake. While soaking in all the architectural bliss, you can spot the migratory birds that flock over to the region. Renowned as the hunting ground to the royal family, the estate is located within the Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary.

Things to do:

• Explore the palace's stunning Indo-Saracenic architecture, featuring intricate carvings, arches, and jharokhas that reflect the grandeur of Rajasthan's royal heritage.
• Dine at the palace's restaurant, offering a variety of cuisines including traditional Rajasthani dishes, and enjoy the view of Gajner Lake.
• Relax at the spa, which offers a range of treatments designed to rejuvenate and refresh guests.
• Stay in one of the palace's luxurious rooms or suites, each offering a unique blend of royal charm and modern comfort.
• Engage in bird watching, especially during the winter months when migratory birds like the Siberian crane, demoiselle crane, and bar-headed goose visit the sanctuary.
• Take a boat ride on Gajner Lake to observe waterfowl and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

4. Laxmi Niwas Palace

Revered as one of the best places to visit in Bikaner, Laxmi Niwas Palace is yet another palace on this list. The architecture of Laxmi Niwas Palace is inspired by the Indo-Saracenic style curated by Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob, an architect from Britain.

Things to do:

• Explore the intricate Indo-Saracenic architecture of the palace, with its ornate arches, jharokhas, and detailed carvings blending Rajput and Mughal styles.
• Walk through the serene marble courtyards and beautifully landscaped gardens surrounding the palace.
• Admire the grandeur of the Swarna Mahal restaurant, known for its golden frescoes and traditional Rajasthani cuisine, including specialities like laal maas.
• Experience royal living by staying in one of the palace’s luxurious rooms, such as the Historical Suite or Royal Suite, featuring antique furnishings and period décor.
• Relax by the swimming pool, which retains original Italian tilework, offering a refreshing dip within the palace’s historic atmosphere.
• Enjoy a game of billiards in the well-appointed room decorated with vintage furnishings and royal memorabilia.

5. Bikaji Ki Tekri

Came into existence around 500 years ago, Bikaji Ki Tekri is one of the oldest tourist attractions in Bikaner. To create the luxe fort with interconnected rooms, Rao Bika used red sandstone while constructing this ornate structure. While exploring the building, take a guide along with you so that you don’t get lost amid the confusing rooms.

Things to do:

• Explore the cenotaphs dedicated to Rao Bikaji and other early rulers, noticing the intricate carvings and inscriptions that reveal the region’s history.
• Wander through the interconnected underground chambers to appreciate the architectural ingenuity of the 15th century.
• Admire the marble chhatri of Rao Bikaji, a striking example of the period’s grandeur.
• Observe the foot impressions (paduka) of queens who committed sati, reflecting the customs of that era.
• Visit the small temple within the complex to add a spiritual aspect to your exploration.
• Capture photographs of the well-preserved structures that offer a window into the past.
• Engage with the caretaker or local guide to learn more about the site’s significance and history.

6. Rampuria Haveli

Not just the fancy palaces and forts, but also the slew of Havelis and houses with exquisite carvings and traditional designs bring fame and add old-world charm to the city of Bikaner. One of the best places to visit in Bikaner, the Rampuria Haveli was built by a rich merchant a long time ago, which still stands tall.

Things to do:

• Explore the intricate carvings and ornate façades that showcase the exceptional craftsmanship of the artisans from that era.
• Admire the fusion of Rajputana, Mughal, and colonial European architectural styles that give the havelis their unique look.
• Capture photographs of the stunning red sandstone structures, which are among the most iconic buildings in Bikaner.
• Walk through the narrow, historic lanes nearby to experience the local culture and heritage.
• Visit Bhanwar Niwas, a heritage hotel located within one of the havelis, to get a feel for the grandeur of the Rampuria family.

7. Prachina Museum

Installed in the year 2000 by the daughter of Maharaja Narendra Singhji, Siddhi Kumari, Prachina Museum in Bikaner is another place that you can visit during your cultural tour. The museum houses a collection of apparel, accessories, perfumes, artwork, and many more artifacts of the past rulers of Bikaner.

Things to do:

• Explore the museum's extensive collection of royal costumes and textiles, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship and vibrant colours that define Bikaner's sartorial heritage.
• Admire the array of religious artefacts, including idols and ceremonial items, reflecting the spiritual practices and beliefs of the region.
• Discover the Gallery of Aristocratic Transportation, featuring ornately embellished bullock carts that precede the horse-drawn carriages of the British era.
• Engage with the Contemporary Art Gallery, displaying works by renowned Usta artists of Bikaner, known for their expertise in stone carving, stucco work, and camel hide oil bottle embellishment.
• Appreciate the traditional Bikaner wall and ceiling paintings, such as Sunahari Munnawati Nakkashi and Rangabaiji, which adorn the museum's interiors.
• Learn about the fusion of indigenous and European influences in the region's art and lifestyle during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

8. Sadul Singh Museum

Sadul Singh Museum holds historical significance and is dedicated to all the Maharajas of Bikaner including Maharaja Karni Singh, Maharaja Ganga Singh, and Maharaja Sadul Singh. The museum showcases a wide range of artifacts, weapons, and photographs from different eras telling the tales of the royal history of Bikaner.

Things to do:

• Explore the museum’s rich collection of Georgian paintings that reveal the artistic influences of the royal era.
• Admire the impressive vintage cars, including Rolls-Royce and Cadillac models, showcasing royal luxury.
• Observe the hunting trophies that highlight the royal family’s adventurous past.
• Discover personal belongings and memorabilia of prominent rulers like Maharaja Ganga Singh and Sadul Singh.

9. Thar Desert

Ride a camel to explore the Thar Desert and get a whiff of the desert wilderness. Riding a camel on the dunes of Thar is one of the best activities to do while exploring Bikaner. With the bright yellow sun above, this sandy ocean will keep you accompanied throughout your thrilling journey in the desert.

Things to do:

• Take a camel safari across the sweeping sand dunes to experience the desert landscape and traditional mode of travel.
• Enjoy a jeep ride for a faster-paced exploration of remote desert villages and scenic spots.
• Witness the breathtaking sunset over the dunes, with golden hues painting the vast desert sky.
• Attend a desert cultural evening featuring Rajasthani folk music, dance performances, and local cuisine.
• Camp overnight under the stars in a desert tent and experience the peaceful stillness of the open landscape.

10. Devi Kund Sagar

Devi Kund Sagar is known as an ancient cremating ground where members of the royal family of Bikaner were cremated, including Rao Bikaji, the founder of the city. Made out of white marble, the structure looks quite fancy.

Things to do:

• Walk through the peaceful cenotaph complex and admire the blend of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles.
• Observe the intricately carved marble chhatris built in memory of Bikaner’s royal family members.
• Learn about the history of the rulers of Bikaner and their contributions through the inscriptions and design of the cenotaphs.
• Spend quiet moments reflecting by the kund, surrounded by serene structures and open skies.
• Capture photographs of the detailed artwork, delicate jali work, and dome-shaped pavilions.

11. Ganga Singh Museum

To learn more about the flourishing culture and the architecture of the state of kings, Bikaner is a perfect place to start with. Ganga Singh Museum in Bikaner houses some of the most fabulous belongings from the Gupta dynasty and as well as the Harappan Civilization.

Things to do:

• Explore the museum’s diverse galleries showcasing artefacts from the Harappan civilisation to the Rajput era.
• Observe the collection of miniature paintings, coins, terracotta figures, weapons, and royal costumes that highlight Bikaner’s rich history.
• Learn about the cultural heritage of Rajasthan through exhibits focused on local arts, crafts, and archaeological finds.
• Spend time admiring the museum’s architecture, which reflects a blend of traditional and colonial design.

12. Kote Gate

An epitome of the great cultural history of Bikaner, Kote Gate is the main entrance gate that separates the new city of Bikaner from the old. Located right in the local shopping area, Kote Gate is one of the famous tourist spots in Bikaner. Besides the panoramic view of the gate, you can shop around the area for artifacts, clothes, handicrafts, shoes, and more.

Things to do:

• Walk through the historic gateway that marks the entrance to Bikaner’s old city and admire its traditional architecture.
• Explore the bustling local markets surrounding the gate, offering everything from handicrafts to spices and textiles.
• Shop for authentic Rajasthani items such as camel leather goods, jewellery, colourful fabrics, and miniature paintings.
• Enjoy local street food and traditional sweets from nearby vendors while soaking in the lively atmosphere.

13. Sursagar Lake

Built by one of the Kings of Bikaner to fulfill the water supply of the city, Sursagar Lake is an artificial lake. However, with time, the water became polluted and unconsumable for the people. Now, with boating facilities and other entertainment activities in the lake, it has become one of the major tourist attractions in Bikaner.

Things to do:

• Take a peaceful walk around the lake while enjoying the calm water and surrounding greenery.
• Sit by the lakeside to relax and unwind in a quiet, scenic setting away from the bustle of the city.
• Capture photographs of the lake, especially during early morning or evening when the light is soft and pleasant.
• Watch local birds that frequent the area, making it a pleasant spot for casual birdwatching.
• Enjoy the reflection of nearby structures and trees in the still water, adding to the lake’s charm.

14. Karni Mata Temple

One of the most eccentric places to visit in Bikaner, Karni Mata Temple is an abode to the incarnation of Goddess Durga, also known as Karni Mata. The temple is widely famous for housing thousands of rats inside its premises. Devotees worship the goddess as well as rats staying inside the temple.

Things to do:

• Offer prayers at the temple dedicated to Karni Mata, revered as an incarnation of Goddess Durga.
• Observe the thousands of rats, considered sacred, freely roaming the temple premises and being respectfully fed by devotees.
• Try to spot the rare white rat, believed to bring good fortune if seen.
• Admire the temple’s impressive marble façade and intricate silver doors decorated with mythological scenes.

15. Ratan Bihari Temple

The Ratan Bihari Temple was built after the queen, a devotee of Lord Krishna inspired Maharaja Ratan Singh Ji to construct it. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and other deities of Lord Vishnu. The temple holds a soft spot in Bikaner tourism as it is considered to be a mark of love and respect. 

Things to do:

• Offer prayers to Lord Krishna and Radha in this peaceful and beautifully maintained temple.
• Admire the temple’s fine Rajasthani architecture, with its intricate carvings and traditional design.
• Spend quiet moments in the serene courtyard, ideal for reflection and devotion.
• Visit during Janmashtami or other festivals to witness lively celebrations and devotional singing.
• Observe the detailed idol decorations and floral arrangements that enhance the spiritual setting.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Tourist Places To Visit In Bikaner

Q1. Is Bikaner worth visiting?
Ans - We would definitely recommend that you add Bikaner to your travel bucket list in India. From forts and palaces to temples and food, and the mysteries of the desert too, Bikaner has so much to offer to its visitors. 

Q2. What is special in Bikaner?
Ans - Bikaner is famous for its sweets and snacks that are both delicious and unique. It is also very popular for housing the biggest camel farm in Asia and for producing handicraft and leather goods.