Best Things To Do In Bikaner India
Tucked away in the heart of Rajasthan’s Thar Desert, Bikaner is a city bursting with character, charm, and unique experiences. From its majestic forts to its quirky temples and thriving camel culture, Bikaner offers an offbeat escape for anyone looking to go beyond the usual Rajasthan tourist trail.
In this travel guide, we’ll give you our recommendations for the six best things to do in Bikaner from our first-hand experience to ensure you don’t miss any hidden Gems!
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We value your time! If you have your eye on specific things to do in Bikaner, then head to our table of contents above and choose the option that best matches your interests. If you’re short on time right now, feel free to pin this guide on Pinterest for later!
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The Best Things To Do In Bikaner India:
1. Experience A Desert Safari
A desert safari is an unforgettable way to experience the raw beauty of the Thar Desert. Unlike the busier desert safaris in Jaisalmer, in our opinion, Bikaner’s tours feel more intimate and authentic, offering quieter dunes and a deeper connection with Rajasthan’s desert culture.
You can choose a number of different ways to enjoy the desert, including a camel ride at sunset, a 4 X 4 jeep safari, or both; why not haha!
One of our absolute favourite parts of Thar Desert was the incredible stars at night time! Many safaris also include a traditional Rajasthani meal under the stars, complete with folk music and dance performances that bring the desert’s spirit to life. Alternatively, you can do what we did and stay overnight at a desert glamping site! This is where we stayed and we loved it!
Check Out Our Firsthand Experience In Bikaner’s Desert On YouTube!
Best Bikaner Day Tours
If you are looking to tick off lots of the best things to do in Bikaner, we highly recommend booking a day tour. These tend to be very affordable and make seeing all the top sites a breeze! Our top picks are below:
2. Visit Junagarh Fort
Junagarh Fort is widely considered the crown jewel of Bikaner; although our favourite part of Bikaner was the surrounding desert landscapes, Junagarh Forta is definitely one you shouldn’t miss! Unlike many Rajasthani forts which perch on hilltops, Junagarh stands proudly on the plains, its towering walls and intricately designed interiors a testament to Bikaner’s regal past.
Built in the 16th century, the fort has an impressive blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture, with stunning courtyards, elaborate frescoes, and beautiful palaces. Don’t miss the panoramic views of the city from the fort’s ramparts, it’s also a perfect picture spot!
Check Out Our Firsthand Experience In Junagarh Fort & Bikaner’s Old City On YouTube!
3. Stroll Through The Old City
Next on our list of best things to do in Bikaner is to take a stroll through the old city! It’s honestly like stepping into a time capsule of vibrant chaos and charm. The narrow, winding lanes are lined with stunning havelis with intricate carvings. You are also able to experience charming markets selling everything from colourful textiles to fragrant spices.
The old city is also home to hidden temples and local workshops, where artisans craft traditional items such as lacquered bangles and miniature paintings. It’s the perfect place to soak in Bikaner’s authentic culture, meet friendly locals, and capture the city’s unique essence.
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4. Visit The National Camel Research Centre
A visit to the National Camel Research Centre is an experience unique to Bikaner and we loved it! Located just outside the city, this centre is dedicated to the study and conservation of camels, an animal deeply tied to Rajasthan’s culture and desert way of life. Here, you can learn about the four breeds of camels found in India, observe them up close, and, if you fancy it, even enjoy a camel ride. The centre also offers camel milk products like ice cream and coffee for visitors to try if you are so inclined!
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5. Admire The Bhandasar Jain Temple
Another top thing to do in Bikaner is to check out The Bhandasar Jain Temple! This is a hidden gem that showcases the exquisite artistry of Jain architecture. Built-in the 15th century, the temple is famed for its intricate carvings and detailed mirrorwork that cover its walls and ceilings. We were mesmerised by the vibrant depictions of Jain mythology and everyday life, all painted with natural colours.
What makes this temple even more fascinating is the legend that 40,000 kilograms of ghee were used instead of water during its construction! Visiting this temple offers a serene escape from the bustling streets and a glimpse into Bikaner’s spiritual heritage.
6. Attend The Bikaner Camel Festival
Last but certainly not least on our list of things to do in Bikaner has to be the Bikaner camel festival. Of course, attendance very much depends on the time of year you visit India, but if you plan your trip in January, the camel festival is a must! This two-day event occurs every year on the second weekend in January and transforms Bikaner into a lively spectacle of colour, music, and culture.
The event kicks off with a stunning camel parade, where beautifully decorated camels, covered with intricate jewellery and vibrant textiles, take centre stage. You can enjoy camel races, traditional folk performances, and even quirky competitions like the best-dressed camel.
How Long Should You Stay In Bikaner
Bikaner is a smaller city compared to other larger destinations in Rajasthan, so 2-3 days should be more than enough to see the top attractions! We highly spending one of these nights glamping under the stars in the surrounding Thar desert and then make your way into the city! However, if your visit coincides with the Camel Festival, you may want to extend your stay to soak in the vibrant festivities.
Where To Stay In Bikaner
Here are our top recommendations for where to stay in Bikaner:
The Best Time To Visit Bikaner India
The best time to visit Bikaner is during the cooler months between October and March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the city’s attractions. Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C, making it comfortable for outdoor activities like desert safaris and wandering through the old city. Obviously, if you want to experience the camel festival, then January is when you want to go! Just be mindful that at nighttime in the desert, it can get quite cool, so take some additional layers!
Conclusion – The Best Things To Do In Bikaner
Bikaner is a city that beautifully blends history, culture, and unique desert experiences. Often overlooked by those completing the famous Golden Triangle route around Rajasthan, we highly recommend checking out this hidden gem! From exploring the majestic Junagarh Fort to strolling through the vibrant old city streets, visiting the fascinating Camel Research Centre, or celebrating the lively Camel Festival, Bikaner has something for everyone! We hope this guide helps you with your planning! Happy adventures!
Don’t hesitate to let us know any questions you might have in the comments below!
Big Love
Beth and Denz