Midst the sand dunes of Jaisalmer and major tourist attractions of Jodhpur, Udaipur and Jaipur lies the city of Bikaner. Bikaner is one lesser known city in Rajasthan and definitely less explored. This is why I have taken upon myself to take you through the nooks and corners of Bikaner. A beautiful city in the lap of natural sand dunes and folk culture. A city I spent my childhood in, far away from the hustle-bustle of metro cities.
Bikaner, The Camel City
So, it is situated in the northern part of Rajasthan and is nicknamed ‘Camel Country’. Hence, the city rightly has India’s best riding camels and is also known for the vast research and breeding institutes for camels.
History, The Legend Of The Rathore Prince
Legend has it that Rao Jodhaji who founded Jodhpur once ridiculed his son Rao Bikaji in durbar full of people. The Rathore prince, Rao Bikaji left the durbar in annoyance, travelled a lot in the desert and finally reached no man’s land called Jangladesh. He then transformed it into a beautiful city and named it Bikaner.You’d also like: 50 Places to Visit in India Before You Turn 30!
Tourist Attractions
Bikaner is home to various forts turned into hotels and museums. Other than that it is known for beautiful havelis, sand dunes, camels and temples. Deshnok Temple, also known as the Rats Temple is here on the outskirts of this city. And yes, you guessed it right. The temple is full of rats. As a kid, I used to climb onto my father and only then let my family enter the temple. (Yeah, rats are my biggest nightmare!)
Bikaner Fairs & Festivals
Bikaner Camel Festival is held annually and is known even across the borders of India. Festival includes camel pageants, competitions like best breed in camel, milking etc. There are other competitions for breeders like, longest moustache, beard etc. Other than this the nights are lit with beautiful cultural and folk dance and music.
To Do List For The Camel City
When in Bikaner, you must shop from the local markets! Firstly, you need to buy bhujia and rasgullas from Bikharam Chandmal Bhujiawala. It’s almost been 10 years since I’ve moved to Delhi, we still get all our namkeen supply from this place. Secondly, you must shop for Mojaris (a type of Rajasthani footwear), Bandhej or Lehariya sarees, Rangi dupattas, wooden artworks, Lacquer bangles and Katputliyaan from Bikaner. Not from Jaisalmer or Udaipur but this city!
Picture Credits: Google Images Sources: Rajasthan Tourism, Wikipedia
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