Area : 38.1 sq km
Population : 415,000 (approx.)

Bikaner was a bustling trade centre of India and because of its strategic positioning on the caravan routes that came from Africa and West Asia. Rao Bikaji established a dynasty here that ruled for almost four and a half centuries. The walled city of Bikaner stands on the northern tip of the desert triangle. It is situated on an elevated ground, surrounded by a seven kilometre long embattled wall marked by five gates. The royal palaces of sandstone set in the picturesque desert environs makes Bikaner a dream city set in the middle of the desert. Bikaner today is on its way to becoming an important industrial and tourist hub. Tours and travels to Bikaner can be an amazing experience if you decide to stay in one of the heritage hotels in the region.

This sprawling desert city of Rajasthan is an eye-catching site of traditional Rajasthani attractions, well-fed camels and citadels. The city was founded in 1488 by a descendant of the founder of Jodhpur named Rao Bhikaji. The city is surrounded by high fortifications comprising a seven-kilometre long wall which encircles the old city and has five entrances. All these were constructed in the 18th century. The exotic camel safaris, its gorgeous forts and the worship of thousands of holy rats at Mata Kali temple are some of the most interesting aspects of Bikaner.

Places to see :
Junagarh Fort - Built by Rai Singh between the period of 1588 and 1593, the fort has a 986-metre-long wall with 37 bastions, a moat and two entrances. It towers prominently over the city and can be seen from a distance. Its most unusual feature is that it was built at ground level and not on high ground. The fort and its palaces are profusely decorated with magnificent stone carvings. The major buildings within the fort include the Anup Mahal, Diwan-e-Khas, Hawa Mahal, Badal Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Phool Mahal, Rang Mahal, Dungar Mahal, and Ganga Mahal.

Lalgarh Palace - Built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in memory of his father, the Lalgarh Palace is a an architectural masterpiece in red sandstone. It is situated 3 kms north of Bikaner city. Designed by Sir Swinton Jacob, the palace has beautiful latticework and filigree work in sandstone. The palace is quite imposing with overhanging balconies and delicate latticework. Peacocks and blooming bougainvillea in the garden welcome the visitor to the palace.

Temples - The temple of Karni Devi is the most important one as it is dedicated to the family deity of the royal house of Bikaner. The Bhandeshwar and Sandeshwar Jain Temples are dedicated to the 23rd Jain Tirthankara, Parsavnathji. Built in the 16th century by two brothers whose names they bear, these temples are remarkable for their colourful murals and the prolific use of gold leaf and mirrors.

How to reach :
By Air - Jodhpur is the nearest airport. The airport is easily accessible by road.
By Rail - Bikaner has number of train links to connect it with the major cities of India.
By Road - It is well linked with the big and small cities of India by the national highways and other roadways.