Travel to Bikaner

Bikaner Sightseeing

Junagarh Fort

The fort was built between 1587 and 1593 by Raja Rai Singh, one of the most distinguished generals in the Mughal army. Unassailable, the fort has the unique distinction of being unconquered all through the period. It can be approached by the Karan Pol (gate), which is its main entrance. Next to it is the Suraj Pol meaning the sun gate. The fort contains some very splendid palaces like Ganga Niwas, Anup Mahal, and Rang Mahal or palace of pleasure. Of these the Anup Mahal is the grandest construction, with wooden ceilings inlaid with mirrors, Italian tiles and delicate latticework on the windows and balconies. The Har Mandir is the magnificent temple. These palaces are made of red sandstone and marble and present a wonderful ensemble of courtyards, balconies, kiosks and windows dotted all over the structure. Within the compound of the fort is a housed a museum which is home to a fine collection of antiques.

Lal Garh Palace

Built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in the memory of his father Maharaja Lal Singh in 1902, Lal Garh Palace is an architectural marvel in red sandstone. A fine synthesis of Rajput, Mughal and European architecture, the palace has now been converted into a hotel. The palace has some beautiful latticework, detailed carvings and filigree work, which are hallmarks of a great craftsmanship.

Ganga Singh Museum

Arguably the best museum in Rajasthan, the Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum (daily except Fri 10am-4.30pm; Rs3) is home to a fine collection of archaeological discoveries from prehistoric Harrapan. On display are arts and crafts, costumes, weapons, ornaments, carpets, ancient statues and paintings, one of which depicts the signing of the Versailles Treaty by Ganga Singh. Other exhibits include terracottas from the Gupta period dating back to the fourth and fifth centuries AD.

Old City

Bikaner's old city can be approached through Kote Gate, the main entrance. It houses great attractions, which include some extraordinary havelis such as Rampuriya Haveli, and Bhanwar Niwas Haveli.

Deshnok

Located 32 km south of Bikaner on the Jodhpur Road, Deshnok is famous for its Karni Mata Temple. Legend has it that Karni Mata, an incarnation of Mother Goddess Durga, used to stay here and so this temple has been dedicated to her. The temple is also famous for teeming hordes of free-roaming rats, which are considered holy by the devotees and are thus worshipped and fed by them.