Bikaner, located in the northern part of Rajasthan, was founded by a Rao Bhikaji in 1488. Like Jaisalmer, this was also an important city on trade route during the medieval period. The city has high fortifications including a seven-kilometre long wall with five entrances encircling the city. The entire fortification was done in the 18th century. The city of Bikaner has had an eventful history. Its closeness to Delhi made it an easy target for the Mughal invasions time and again. As per legends, Rao Bhikaji sought the blessings of Goddess Karni at Deshnoke before embarking on his campaign. Karni Mata temple in Deshnoke thus became te deity of the ruling family. Today hundreds of pilgrims gather at the temple everyday to pray for the blessings of the Goddess, revered as an personification of Goddess Durga. Bikaner is also renowned for the having best riding camels in the world and is also the native land of the famous Bikaneri bhujia and namkeen (a salted snack made of lentils). Being located in the Thar Desert, the summers are very hot and winters are cool and tolerable.
Bikaner Facts:
• Area 165.75 sq. km
• Population 4,16,289
• Altitude 237 metres above sea level
• Languages Rajasthani, Hindi, English
• STD Code 0151
• Best time to visit November–February
Tourist Attractions in Bikaner
Bikaner offers several attractions to including the exotic camel safaris. One can visit the majestic forts or Mata Karni temple where rats are worshipped. The camel festival held in January is an event worth witnessing. Other major attractions include Junagarh Fort, Gajner Palace, Lalgarh Palace, Camel Breeding Farm, Deshnoke Temple and the Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum.
Tourist Attractions around Bikaner
The excursions around Bikaner, offers a glimpse into the region’s heritage and provide an opportunity to observe its rich flora and fauna. The Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary situated 32 km from Bikaner is inhabited by numerous wild species including wild boar, the nilgai, chinkara and sand grouse that migrate every winter. At Devi Kund, 8 kms east of Bikaner there are some ornamented cenotaphs or chhatris.
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