The tourist attractions in Bikaner in the northern part of Rajasthan are the forts and palaces of this historic city. The historic attractions of Bikaner talks of its glorious past.

History of Bikaner

A descendant of the founder of Jodhpur named Rao Bhikaji founded Bikaner in 1488. Bikaner is a fortified city with the forts dating back tot the 15th century. The city is surrounded by high fortifications with seven-kilometers long wall, which encircles the old city and has five entrances. Bikaner has Ganganagar and Hanumannagar in its northern side, Churu lies in its eastern side and Nagaur, Jodhpur and Jaisalmer are in its south while in the western part it has the neighboring country Pakistan. Due to its geographical location, Bikaner became an important city on the great caravan trade route during the medieval period.

Attractions in Bikaner

The tourist attractions in Bikaner are the 16 the century Junagarh Fort which has never been conquered. Successive rulers later added thirty-seven palaces, pavilions and temples to the original structure and each has been skillfully built to connect with the previous buildings. The museum in the fort houses valuable collection of miniature paintings dating back to several centuries. Lalgarh Palace, a major part of which is now a luxury hotel, was designed by Sir Swinton Jacob for Maharaja Ganga Singh almost 90 years ago and has interesting combination of European luxury and oriental fantasy. Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum houses brilliant specimens of Harappan civilization, the Gupta and Kushan era.

Excursions from Bikaner

Excursions can be made form Bikaner to the beautiful Jain Temple, Bhandasar Jain Temple dedicated to the 23rd thirthankara, Parsvanathji.Bikaner has a Camel Breeding Farm which is one of its kind in Asia managed by the Government of India. Devi Kund is a royal crematorium with several cenotaphs with decorative Chattris built in memory of the rulers of the Bika dynasty. Deshnok's Karni Mata Temple devoted to Karni Mata is known for giving a spiritual status to rats, which roam around freely. Kalyatji Temple is dedicated to Kapil Muni and is famous for the fair it hosts during the month of Kartik.

Fairs and Festivals in Bikaner

Bikaner hosts a famous Camel Festival every year in the month of January, which attracts tourists from across the globe. The colorful processions of bedecked camels, camel races and the cultural shows mark the festive occasion. Karni Mata Fair is celebrated during April/ May and October/ November when devotees flock tot worship Goddess Durga.

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