Bikaner

Undulating and shifting sand dunes in the rugged Thar Desert open out to a magnificent heritage city of forts, palaces and markets, fortified against marauders by seven km long embattlements. This desert city called Bikaner, in Rajasthan, lies in the northern part of the Thar Desert and being a good source of sweet water became an important caravanserai for the merchants and traders who travelled with their camel trains from West and Central Asia to the kingdoms of East Asia.

Immensely wealthy, the desert kingdom of Bikaner was ruled over by a powerful dynasty that traced its lineage to the old ruling family of Jodhpur. But it was Rao Bikaji who built the splendid havelis, forts and palaces in the city that bears his name. The ‘unspoiled’ ambience of well preserved medieval splendour and colourful bazaars make Bikaner a heritage city well worth visiting.

Transport inside the city can be a big problem as buses are few and far between and the ones that are, aren't too good. For sightseeing, rental vehicles, tourist taxis and Rajasthan Tourist Development Corporation conducted tours are available. Auto rickshaws are convenient and more economical than cabs but be sure to fix fares beforehand or insist on the use of the meter. A cheaper mode of travel around the city would be a cycle rickshaw.

The important tourist attractions of the place have been listed below.

Bikaner Attractions

undo India Attractions