Rajasthan
The land of forts and palaces, rich culture, and vibrant traditions.
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2 Days in Bikaner for Budget Trip
Bikaner is a hidden gem in Rajasthan, full of history, culture, and amazing food—all without breaking the bank. I love how the city feels less touristy than Jaipur or Udaipur but still packs a punch with its forts, temples, and local markets. The best part? You can experience the real Rajasthan here without the crowds.
Trip Highlights
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Day 1
Day 1 in Bikaner
Kick off your Bikaner adventure with its most iconic sights, from a majestic fort to a unique rat temple, and savor the city's famous snacks along the way.
Activities
Explore Junagarh Fort
Start your day at Junagarh Fort, one of the few major forts in Rajasthan not built on a hill. The intricate carvings, courtyards, and museums inside showcase Bikaner's royal history. Don't miss the Anup Mahal with its gold leaf decorations and the stunning Chandra Mahal.
- Hire a guide for around ₹300 to understand the fort's history better.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot of walking involved.
Visit Karni Mata Temple (Rat Temple)
Head to Deshnok, about 30 km from Bikaner, to see the famous Karni Mata Temple, where thousands of rats are worshipped. It's a surreal experience watching devotees offer sweets to the rodents. The temple's silver doors and marble carvings are also impressive.
- Remove your shoes before entering the temple.
- Stay quiet and respectful, as it's an active place of worship.
Stroll through Bikaner's Old City & Kote Gate
Spend the late afternoon wandering Bikaner's vibrant old city near Kote Gate. The narrow lanes are packed with shops selling everything from spices to camel leather goods. Stop by Bhikharam Chandmal for their legendary bhujia and other local snacks.
- Try the local specialty, Bikaneri bhujia, from shops in this area.
- Bargain politely at the small shops for souvenirs.
Must Try Foods
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Day 2
Day 2 in Bikaner
Dive deeper into Bikaner's royal heritage and local flavors, visiting grand havelis, a unique camel research center, and savoring the city's famous snacks.
Activities
Visit Lalgarh Palace
A stunning red sandstone palace built by Maharaja Ganga Singh, blending Rajput, Mughal, and European architectural styles. While part of it is a luxury hotel, the museum section is open to visitors, showcasing royal artifacts, vintage cars, and intricate carvings. The sprawling lawns and peacocks roaming around add to the regal vibe.
- Don’t miss the vintage car collection parked near the entrance.
- Early mornings are less crowded and perfect for photos.
Explore the National Research Centre on Camel
One of Bikaner’s quirkiest attractions, this research center is dedicated to camels—the lifeline of Rajasthan’s deserts. Walk around the farm to see different camel breeds, learn about their role in local culture, and if you’re feeling adventurous, try camel milk ice cream or a short camel ride.
- The camel milk kulfi (ice cream) is a must-try.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the area is sandy.
Shop and Snack at Bikaner’s Bhujia Bazaars
No visit to Bikaner is complete without tasting its famous bhujia (crispy gram flour snacks). Head to the old markets around KEM Road or Station Road, where shops like Haldiram’s and Bikaji have been selling fresh bhujia, rasgullas, and other sweets for decades. Pick up some packets for home and enjoy the bustling market atmosphere.
- Try the spicy 'Bikaneri bhujia'—it’s the original variant.
- Bargaining is common in smaller shops.