Things To Do
in Bīkaner

Bīkaner is a vibrant city located in the northwest desert state of Rajasthan, India. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning forts, and delicious cuisine, making it a fascinating destination for travelers. The city boasts unique architecture, particularly the red sandstone structures that reflect its historical significance.

Bīkaner is also famous for its camel festival, showcasing the region's deep connection to these magnificent animals.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Bīkaner's Heritage
morning
:

Visit Junagarh Fort, an architectural marvel with intricate carvings and expansive courtyards.

afternoon
:

Explore the Bīkaner Camel Breeding Farm to learn about the significance of camels in the region and meet the animals.

evening
:

Stroll through the local markets, particularly Kote Gate, and enjoy shopping for handicrafts and local textiles.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Cuisine
morning
:

Start the day with a visit to Lalgarh Palace, a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture, and its beautiful gardens.

afternoon
:

Experience local culture at the Ganga Singh Museum, which houses artifacts from the region's history and art.

evening
:

Attend a traditional Rajasthani dance performance at a local venue and savor a traditional meal.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$2 - $5
🏨Budget Hotel Night$10 - $20
🚕Taxi Ride within City$1 - $3
🛍️Souvenir Shopping$5 - $30
🥤Bottle of Water$0.20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious and unique local cuisine.
  • Warm and hospitable locals.
  • Extreme heat during summer months.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Dust and pollution in some areas.
  • "नमस्ते" - Hello
  • "धन्यवाद" - Thank you
  • "कहाँ है..." - Where is...
  • "मैं नहीं समझा" - I don’t understand
  • "मदद कीजिए" - Please help me

Places to Visit in Bīkaner

Visit one of these nice places.

Junagarh Fort

Capture the stunning architecture and the panoramic views of the city from the fort.

Lalgarh Palace

The intricate design and lush gardens provide a perfect backdrop for photos.

Ganga Singh Museum

The museum's historical artifacts and architecture make for interesting photographic subjects.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bīkaner

Bīkaner is a food lover's paradise, renowned for its spicy snacks and sweets that reflect the rich culinary culture of Rajasthan.

Bīkaner Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bikaneri Bhujia

A crispy, spicy snack made from gram flour and a mix of spices, famous across India.

Must-Try!

Rajasthani Thali

A traditional platter featuring various vegetarian dishes, breads, and desserts.

Kesar Pista Lassi

A refreshing yogurt drink flavored with saffron and pistachios.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Bikaner Haat

A bustling market known for its street food stalls serving local delicacies and snacks.

Chhotu Motu Joshi Sweet Shop

Famous for its variety of sweets and snacks, especially the Bikaneri Bhujia.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bīkaner experiences a hot desert climate, with extremely hot summers, mild winters, and minimal rainfall. Summer temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 5°C (41°F) at night. The monsoon season brings some relief from the heat, but humidity can be high.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Traditions

Visitors should respect local customs and traditions, especially during festivals and religious events.

Dress Modestly

Dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites. Avoid revealing clothing.

Greetings

A traditional greeting is 'Namaste', accompanied by the gesture of pressing palms together.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bīkaner is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and being aware of your belongings in crowded markets. It's advisable to drink bottled water and ensure food hygiene to avoid stomach issues.

Tipping in Bīkaner

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip service staff, with 10% being a common amount in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit/debit cards are accepted in many restaurants and shops. Digital wallets are also gaining popularity.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (November - February)

Mild and pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing. Temperatures can drop at night, so warm clothing is recommended.

Summer (March - June)

Extremely hot with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). Early morning and late evening are the best times for outdoor activities.

Monsoon (July - September)

Rainfall is moderate, bringing some relief from the heat. However, humidity can be high.

Autumn (October)

The weather is dry and pleasant, making it an excellent time to visit and explore the city.

Nightlife Guide

Bīkaner at Night

Bīkaner has a more subdued nightlife compared to larger cities, with a few cafes and restaurants offering live music and cultural performances in the evenings. Most locals prefer to spend time with family or friends at home. However, some hotels and resorts may host special events or cultural nights for tourists.

Hiking in Bīkaner

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kanasar Hill Trek

A moderate trek that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and a chance to spot local wildlife.

Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary Trail

Explore the trails within the sanctuary, which is home to various bird species and other wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Bīkaner by plane.

Bikaner Airport (BKB)

Located about 15 km from the city center, Bikaner Airport offers limited flights to major cities in India.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bīkaner is relatively walkable in the city center, especially around major attractions like Junagarh Fort and local markets. However, some areas may be less pedestrian-friendly due to traffic and construction. Sidewalks are not always available, so caution is advised while walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Rajputs

A prominent community in Bīkaner, known for their historical significance and contributions to the region's culture.

Baniyas

A merchant community that plays a vital role in the economy and trade of Bīkaner.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is immensely popular in Bīkaner, with local teams and matches frequently held.

Camel Racing

A unique sport in the region, camel racing events attract both locals and tourists, especially during festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Bīkaner can be congested, especially during peak hours. Auto rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are common forms of local transportation. Public buses are also available, but they may not be the most convenient for tourists.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bīkaner.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Rajasthan is predominantly vegetarian, and most restaurants offer extensive vegetarian menus.

Spice Levels

Diners should communicate their spice tolerance, as Rajasthani food can be quite spicy.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Bīkaner includes a mix of government and private hospitals. Major hospitals are equipped to handle common health issues, but for serious conditions, it may be advisable to travel to larger cities like Jaipur. It's recommended for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover India

Read more in our India 2025 Travel Guide.

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