Purple city Bikaner, Rajasthan: The amazing camel country
Purple city Bikaner, Rajasthan is tucked away in the northwestern state of India, lies the charming city. A lesser-known destination compared to Jaipur or Jodhpur, Bikaner is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Explore the best of Bikaner and discover why it’s a must-visit destination in Rajasthan.
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History and Architecture of Purple city Bikaner
Bikaner’s rich history dates back to the 15th century when it was founded by Rao Bika, a Rajput prince. The city’s architecture is a testament to its rich cultural heritage, with a blend of Rajput and Mughal styles. The Junagadh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, and Bikaner Fort are some of the most impressive structures in the city, showcasing its architectural grandeur.
Camel Safari and Desert Experiences
Purple city Bikaner is famous for its camel safaris, which offer a unique way to experience the desert landscape. Take a ride on a camel through the sandy dunes, watching the sunset over the horizon as you go. You can also opt for a desert camping experience, where you can spend a night under the stars with a campfire and traditional Rajasthani cuisine.
For the TLOW backpacking experience click on this link
Local Markets and Cuisine
Purple city Bikaner’s local markets are a treasure trove of traditional handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Visit the Sadar Market and New Market to shop for unique Rajasthani items like block-printed fabrics, intricate embroidery, and colorful pottery. Don’t miss trying some of Purple city Bikaner, Rajasthan’s famous local cuisine, including dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and laal maans.
Places to Visit
- Junagadh Fort: A 16th-century fort that offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding desert landscape.
- Lalgarh Palace: A beautiful palace built in the 19th century, now converted into a hotel.
- Bikaner Fort: A 15th-century fort that houses the city’s museum and offers stunning views of the city.
- Karni Mata Temple: A temple dedicated to the goddess Karni Mata, where thousands of rats are considered sacred.
- Gajner Palace: A beautiful palace built in the 19th century, now converted into a hotel and wildlife sanctuary.
Tips for Visiting Purple city Bikaner, Rajasthan
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing for walking around the city.
- Carry sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Try local Rajasthani cuisine and drinks like lassi and chai.
- Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples or forts.
- Don’t miss taking a camel ride or desert camping experience for a unique adventure.
Accommodation Options
Bikaner has a range of accommodation options from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts. Some popular options include:
- Hotel Shri Ram: A budget-friendly hotel with comfortable rooms and a restaurant.
- Hotel Gajner Palace: A luxury hotel with stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape.
- The Orchard: A boutique hotel with beautifully designed rooms and a garden.
Bikaner is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its rich architecture, camel safaris, local markets, and delicious cuisine, it’s an ideal destination for travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or adventure, Bikaner has something to offer. So why not plan your next trip to this charming city in Rajasthan?
Bikaner is a historic city located in the northwest of Rajasthan, India. Known for its rich heritage and culture, Purple city Bikaner, Rajasthan is famous for its stunning palaces, forts, and temples. Key attractions include the Junagarh Fort, which is renowned for its architectural brilliance, the Lalgarh Palace, and the Karni Mata Temple, often referred to as the “Rat Temple” due to the large population of rats that are revered there. Bikaner is also well-known for its distinctive cuisine, including spicy snacks like bhujia, and its annual camel festival. The city is situated in the Thar Desert, which adds to its unique desert charm.
It is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. Here are some of the top attractions and experiences to explore in Bikaner:
Experiences:
- Camel Safari: Take a ride on a camel through the desert landscape, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- Desert Camping: Spend a night in the desert under the stars, with a campfire and traditional Rajasthani cuisine.
- Rajasthani Cuisine: Try traditional Rajasthani dishes like dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and laal maans.
- Local Markets: Visit the local markets like the Sadar Market and the New Market to shop for traditional Rajasthani handicrafts and souvenirs.
- Forts and Palaces: Explore the city’s many forts and palaces, including the Junagadh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, and Bikaner Fort.
Getting There:
Bikaner is well-connected to major cities in India by road and rail. The nearest airport is Jodhpur Airport, which is about 250 km away.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Bikaner is during the winter months (October to February) when the weather is mild and pleasant.
Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing for walking around the city.
- Carry sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Try local Rajasthani cuisine and drinks like lassi and chai.
- Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples or forts.
Overall, Bikaner is a fascinating city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.