Rajasthan
The land of forts and palaces, rich culture, and vibrant traditions.
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3 Days in Bikaner for a Flavorful Food Trip
Bikaner is a hidden gem for food lovers, where every bite tells a story of Rajasthani traditions. From crispy bhujia to rich, sweet treats, this city will surprise you with its unique flavors. I've spent countless hours exploring its narrow lanes, tasting everything from street snacks to royal thalis, and I can't wait to share the best spots with you.
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Day 1
Day 1 in Bikaner
Start your Bikaner adventure with its iconic attractions and delicious local flavors. Explore the grand Junagarh Fort, wander through the bustling markets, and savor the city's famous snacks.
Activities
Junagarh Fort Tour
Begin your day at Junagarh Fort, one of the few forts in Rajasthan not built on a hill. The intricate carvings, courtyards, and museums inside showcase Bikaner's royal heritage. Don't miss the Anup Mahal with its gold leaf decorations and the stunning Chandra Mahal.
- Hire a guide for detailed stories about the fort's history.
- Carry water as the fort can get hot during midday.
Kote Gate Market & Local Snacks
Head to Kote Gate, the lively market near Junagarh Fort, for a taste of Bikaner's street food. Try the famous Bikaneri bhujia, kachoris, and ghewar. The market is also great for picking up souvenirs like mojris (traditional shoes) and lac bangles.
- Bargain politely for souvenirs.
- Try the hot, crispy kachoris from local stalls.
Visit Karni Mata Temple (Rat Temple)
A short drive from Bikaner, this unique temple is home to thousands of revered rats. It's a surreal experience to see them scurrying around freely. The temple's silver doors and marble carvings are also worth admiring.
- Remove shoes before entering the temple.
- Be respectful of the rats—they’re considered sacred.
Must Try Foods
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Day 2
Day 2 in Bikaner
A mix of history, culture, and food, exploring Bikaner's royal past and vibrant local flavors.
Activities
Lalgarh Palace & Museum
Start your day at this stunning red sandstone palace built by Maharaja Ganga Singh. The architecture blends Rajput, Mughal, and European styles, and the museum inside showcases royal artifacts, vintage cars, and intricate frescoes. Don’t miss the peacock gate and the lush gardens.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the palace grounds.
- Ask the guides about the palace’s hidden stories—they’re full of fascinating tidbits.
Bikaner’s Bhujia Bazaar
Head to the bustling Bhujia Bazaar, named after Bikaner’s famous snack. This is the place to try fresh bhujia, ghewar, and other local treats. The market is also great for picking up spices, handmade papads, and traditional Rajasthani souvenirs.
- Try the kachoris at the small stalls—they’re crispy and stuffed with spicy lentils.
- Bargain politely if you’re buying souvenirs.
Sunset at Gajner Palace
Wrap up your day with a short drive to Gajner Palace, a former hunting lodge on the edge of a lake. The golden-hour views here are magical, and you might spot peacocks or deer wandering the grounds. Stay for dinner at their restaurant, which serves authentic Rajasthani thalis.
- Book a table by the lake for the best views.
- Carry a light jacket—it can get breezy in the evening.
Must Try Foods
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Day 3
Day 3 in Bikaner
A relaxed day exploring Bikaner’s hidden gems, from a unique camel research farm to a serene lake and some of the city’s best-kept food secrets.
Activities
Visit the National Research Centre on Camel
A quirky yet fascinating spot just outside Bikaner, this research center is dedicated to camels—Rajasthan’s 'ships of the desert.' You can take a short camel ride, sample fresh camel milk (surprisingly sweet!), and learn about the animals’ role in local life. The museum here has interesting displays on camel husbandry and conservation.
- Try the camel milk ice cream—it’s a unique local treat.
- Wear comfortable shoes; the area is sandy.
Stroll at Sursagar Lake
A peaceful escape from the city’s hustle, Sursagar Lake is perfect for a leisurely walk or just sitting by the water. The lake is especially lovely in the late afternoon when the light softens. Nearby, you’ll find small stalls selling chai and local snacks—grab a cup and watch the world go by.
- Visit the small temple on the lake’s edge for a quiet moment.
- Keep an eye out for local birds; the lake attracts quite a few.
Dinner at Gallops Restaurant
End your Bikaner trip with a meal at Gallops, a cozy spot known for its Rajasthani thali and warm hospitality. The thali here is a feast—think dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and melt-in-your-mouth ker sangri. The ambiance is relaxed, with traditional decor and friendly staff.
- Ask for the 'special thali'—it often includes seasonal dishes.
- Try their homemade mango pickle; it’s a standout.