Indian Travel Planner: Bikaner District, Rajasthan

The district of Bikaner lies in the north west part of the district of Rajasthan. It is a part of the Thar desert and is also referred to as the Desert District. The place is a treasure trove of rich culture, heritage, ancient royal history, amazing architecture, mesmerizing palaces, havelis and forts. It is a must visit place on a visit to the State. It is full of amazing temples, forts, museums, castles, wildlife sanctuaries, animal reserves and a rich and varied culture that is an intricate part of the lives of the people here. Folk songs, music, rich and intricate handicrafts, miniature paintings, ornamental designs, various religious festivals and events entice the visitor not only from all over the country but also internationally. It has religious pilgrimage significance along with innumerable attractions all over the district that add to its allure.

It is also home to one of the world's largest research and breeding camel farms. Camel riding and camping in the Great Indian Desert is one of the most popular activities preferred by the tourists.

Here are more details about the place.

Area - 30,247 sq.km

Elevation - 238 meters

Population - 23,63,937 as per 2011 Census

Population rank in India - 190th out of 640

District Headquarters - Bikaner City

Administrative Division - Bikaner

Number of Talukas - 8

Talukas - Bikaner, Chhattargarh, Shri Dungargarh, Kolayat, Khajuwala,

Loonkaransar, Nokha, Pugal.

Villages - 1498

Languages Spoken - Marwari, Hindi, Rajasthani, Punjabi

Geographical Borders -

North - Ganganagar

Northeast - Hanumangarh

Northwest - Punjab, Pakistan

South - Jodhpur

Southeast - Nagaur

Southwest - Jaisalmer

East - Churu

Primary Crops - Rabi, Mustard seeds, Chickpea, Cotton, Wheat, Sesame, Moth bean, Pearl millet, Cluster beans, Groundnuts

Water Sources - Indira Gandhi Canal

Natural Resources - Minerals, Animal resources

Economy - Agriculture, Tourism, Industries like Ceramics and Tiles, Food products, Woolen Carpets, Agro-based, Mining etc

Distance from -

Jodhpur - 297 kms

Jaipur - 399 kms

New Delhi - 464 kms

Mumbai - 1217 kms

How to reach :-

Via Airways - The nearest airport is Naal Airport, at a distance of 13 kms. It is operated by ( AAI ) Airport Authority Of India.

Via Railways - Bikaner Railways comes under the North Western Zone of the Indian Railways.

It is well connected to most major cities in and out of the State. The iconic Palace on Wheels includes Bikaner in its 8 day tour of the State.

Via Roadways - The district is linked via NH 11, NH 15 and NH 89 to most major cities all over the country. Luxury bus services are easily available all over Bikaner.

Unique Local handicrafts / Artefacts -

Meenakari, Ornamental Stone Work, Miniature Paintings, Usta Art, Carpet Weaving etc

Tourist attractions include -

Jorbeed, Bikaner Camel Festival, Dhawa Doli Wildlife Sanctuary, Deshnoke (Worship of rats )

Deshroke Karni Mata Mandir, Laxmi Niwas Palace, Bhandasar Jain Temple

Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary, Gajner Palace and Lake, Ganga singh Museum. Junagarh fort, fatehpur Shekhawati, karni Mata Mandir

Kodamdesar Temple and Lake, Lallgarh Palace and Museum, Royal Cenotaphs, Devikund Sagar Kolayat, Rampuria Haveli, Pothran fort, Prachina Museum, Ganga Govt Museum , National Research Research Centre on Camels. Shiv Bari Temple, Shri Laxminath Temple. Sadul Singh Museum, Raisar Dune, Sursagar Lake, Darbari Lake

Events to attend - Camel festival, Kolayat, Ganguar

Bikaneri Food - includes dishes that last for a long time without going bad in the high and dry climatic conditions. Buttermilk, Butter, Besan ( Chickpeas flour ) are an inherent part of the cuisine. Delicacies like gatte ki sabji, Khata, pakodi are very popular.