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DESERT CITY · RAJASTHANBikaner
A characterful desert city of a superb unconquered fort, ornate havelis, camels and the famous rat temple nearby.
A desert city of forts and camels
Bikaner is a proud desert city in northern Rajasthan, founded in the fifteenth century and built around the magnificent Junagarh Fort, one of the few great forts of Rajasthan never conquered.
It is known for its red-sandstone palaces and carved havelis, its thriving camel country and rich snacks and sweets, and for the famous Karni Mata “rat temple” at nearby Deshnok.
Less crowded than Rajasthan’s bigger names, Bikaner rewards travellers with grand architecture and desert character, on the route towards Jaisalmer and the Thar.
The red-sandstone ramparts of Junagarh Fort at Bikaner.
Reasons to make the time
Junagarh Fort
A superb, never-conquered fort.
Palaces & havelis
Red-sandstone palaces and carved mansions.
Camel country
A famous camel-breeding region.
Rat temple nearby
Karni Mata at Deshnok is close by.
Top sights in Bikaner
Photos via Wikimedia Commons
How to spend an hour or two
Tour Junagarh Fort
Explore the superb unconquered fort and its palaces.
See Lalgarh Palace
Visit the grand red-sandstone royal palace.
Add the rat temple
Drive to Karni Mata at nearby Deshnok.
Visit a Jain temple
See the painted Bhandasar Jain temple.
Taste the sweets
Try Bikaner's famous snacks and sweets.
When to go
The most comfortable weather for this desert city.
Cooler with rare, welcome rain.
Fierce desert heat makes daytime hard.
🐫 The Bikaner Camel Festival in winter is a colourful time to visit — plan ahead if your dates align.
Timings & entry
- Junagarh Fort keeps daytime hours; markets run late.
- The fort and museum are ticketed.
Getting there
By Air
Bikaner and Jodhpur are the nearest airports.
By Rail
Bikaner Junction is well connected.
By Road
About 490 km from Ahmedabad; on the route towards Jaisalmer.
Know before you go
Bikaner FAQ
Why is Bikaner famous?
For its magnificent unconquered Junagarh Fort, red-sandstone palaces, camel country and the nearby Karni Mata rat temple.
How far is Bikaner from Gujarat?
About 490 km from Ahmedabad, on the road towards Jaisalmer and the Thar.
Is the rat temple near Bikaner?
Yes, Karni Mata Temple at Deshnok is about 30 km away and a common add-on.
How long do you need in Bikaner?
One to two days for the fort, palaces, Jain temple and Deshnok.
What is Bikaner known for eating?
Its famous snacks and sweets, sold in the bazaars and across India.
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