Bikaner is possibly the most underrated city in Rajasthan. It is a destination that is neither widely visited nor is it known like the popular nearby cities of Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur and Jaisalmer. In fact, it is often only seen as a good stopover en-route to Jaisalmer or Jodhpur. Except in reality, it has much more to offer than that or its famous namkeens and sweets.
1. Junagarh Fort
Because how can you travel to Rajasthan and not see a picturesque fort, right? Built in the late 16th century by Raja Rai Singh, Junagarh Fort is one of the most famous landmarks of Bikaner.
2. Rampuria Haveli
Acknowledged as the pride of Bikaner, the Rampuria Haveli is a cluster of seven ornate mansions belonging to a wealthy merchant family of the bygone era. They were constructed in the 15th century using the signature red sandstone of Bikaner called Dulmera.
3. The Walled City of Bikaner
Although the Rampuria Havelis are the most iconic and photographed part of the walled city of Bikaner, there is a lot more to discover and capture in this area. We spent a few hours strolling in the narrow lanes there and stumbled upon many more beautiful havelis, Instagrammable doors and temples.
4. Seth Bhandasar Jain Temple
Out of the many temples in Bikaner, Seth Bhandasar Jain Temple is the most beautiful to see. Dedicated to Sumatinatha, the 5th Tirthankara, it is a three-storey religious landmark that is a sight to behold because of its splendid interiors.
5. Laxmi Niwas Palace
Laxmi Niwas Palace is the grandest amongst all the palaces in Bikaner. It was completed in 1902 and was the former residence of the late Maharaja Ganga Singh Ji. Nowadays, it is a luxury heritage hotel that is a sight for sore eyes due to its dreamlike splendour.
6. Lallgarh Palace
Lallgarh Palace is another luxurious palace in Bikaner. It is situated in the same complex as Laxmi Niwas Palace and was the residence of Maharaja Ganga Singh Ji.
7. The Thar Desert
Similar to the golden city of Jaisalmer, Bikaner is also located in the Thar Desert. If you are not travelling to the former, then make sure to at least visit the sand dunes in Bikaner to get some beautiful desert photos whilst in Rajasthan.
8. Devi Kund Sagar
The chattris that were constructed earlier are made in the red and pink sandstone that is seen throughout the city. The newer ones, on the other hand, are built in white marble and are equally as picturesque.
9. Gajner Palace and Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary
Situated on the shores of the pristine Gajner Lake, the Gajner Palace is an oasis surrounded by lush green forests. It is a luxury heritage hotel that was once a hunting lodge of the rulers of Bikaner. The Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary is only a few steps away from the palace.
10. Narendra Bhawan
Depicting glorious tales of the last reigning king of Bikaner, Maharaja Narendra Singh Ji, Narendra Bhawan is a boutique heritage hotel that also happens to be one of the iconic Instagrammable spots in Bikaner.
