Bikaner is a city in Rajasthan that truly captures the essence of the state and boasts of its rich history through the palaces and forts here. The things to do in Bikaner listed here would give you a chance to explore all the famous as well as hidden gems that would make your vacation an excellent one. You’re in for an adventurous journey through this magnificent city that has several cultural and historical surprises in store for you, so what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and plan a trip to Bikaner.
Best Things to Do in Bikaner: A Regal and Thrilling Time Awaits
Now, before we move on to the top things to do in Bikaner, you must keep in mind that you’re going to have the time of your life in this city. These activities would allow you to experience the Rajasthan feel in the best way possible and you’ll be returning home with a suitcase full of memories. So, let’s dive straight into the Bikaner activities that you must try during your vacation.
- Go for a Camel Safari in the Desert
- Spot Wildlife in Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary
- Explore the Opulent Laxmi Niwas Palace
- Relish Authentic Rajasthani Cuisine
- Shop at Station Road
- Witness a Glorious Sunset at Sursagar Lake
- Beat the Heat at Skybird Water Park
- Take Part in the Camel Festival
1. Go for a Camel Safari in the Desert: Travel the Desert Expanse as Royalty
A camel safari in the desert is as important as indulging in watersports at the beach. It’s a rite of passage that every tourist must experience at least once. You can travel the length of the desert on camel back being led by regal servicemen and feel like royalty. You won’t get a better chance of exploring the Thar desert and witness the glorious views surrounding you, such as the clear blue sky, the soft sand, and the sun shining bright. In the evening, you can even stay for the entertaining dance and music show that would enrich your experience even more. This is why it's one of the popular things to do in Bikaner.
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Entry fee: INR 1200/- onwards
Highlights: The breathtaking sand sea
2. Spot Wildlife in Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary: Observe the Wild Animals
The Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary is part of the glorious Gajner Palace, and it was earlier a hunting lodge for the king and his family. You can spot several wild animals here, such as Cheetahs, Chinkara, Wild Boar, Nilgai, etc. There are also rare bird species residing here, such as the sandgrouse. It’ll be a perfect addition to your adventure in Bikaner because it has all the elements that make it thrilling and fun. The varied flora here adorns the area and offers you gorgeous views during the wildlife safari.
Timings: 10 A.M to 5 P.M
Entry fee: Around INR 100/-
Time required: 1 to 2 hours
Distance from Bikaner: Approx. 32 km
Highlights: A variety of rare birds and animal species
Nearby restaurants: The Crystal Lounge Bar, Laxmi Niwas Palace, Gallops Restaurant and Coffee House
Nearby hotels: Laxmi Niwas Palace, Lalgarh Palace, Narendra Bhawan Bikaner
Suggested Read: A Complete Guide to the Char Dham Yatra: A Union with the Divine
3. Explore the Opulent Laxmi Niwas Palace: An Architectural Beauty
If you wish to witness and experience the true beauty and grandeur of Rajasthan, then visiting the Laxmi Niwas Palace is the way to go. This palace is the epitome of luxury and royalty, and it’s now open to the public as a heritage hotel. You can either stay here or explore this place as a visitor, but you must add this as one of the must-visit attractions in Rajasthan. The splendid architecture of this palace and the majestic vibe it exudes is what draws people to visit it.
Timings: 10 A.M to 6 P.M
Entry fee: Around INR 200/-
Time required: 1 to 2 hours
Distance from Bikaner: Approx. 3 km
Highlights: The grandeur of this palace
Nearby restaurants: Hotel Sagar, Gallops Restaurant and Coffee House, Indian Fusion
Nearby hotels: Basant Vihar Palace Hotel, Hotel Harasar Haveli, The Lalgarh Palace
Suggested Read: Places to Visit in Chittorgarh: Explore the City Marked in the Pages of History
4. Relish Authentic Rajasthani Cuisine: Taste the Traditional Flavors
Rajasthan is famous for its traditional cuisine, which is full of flavors and variety. If you go to this state, you can’t leave without tasting their scrumptious food. Therefore, it’s among the important things to do in Bikaner Rajasthan. It’s the taste of this food that would stay in your memory the longest, and there are several restaurants that offer these delectable dishes that make this place what it is.
Famous restaurants: Suraj Restaurant, Heeralal’s, Gallops, Amberwalla
Popular food: Dal Baati Churma, Gatte ki Sabzi, Ker Sangri, Kachori,
Famous sweets: Ghevar, Kesar Fini, Rasgullas
Famous sweet shops: Chotu Motu Joshi, Bikaner Chandmal, Chappan Bhog
Suggested Read: Things to Do in Mount Abu: Add an Adventurous Page to Your Vacation
5. Shop at Station Road: One of the Best Shopping Places
When you’re in Bikaner, shopping for souvenirs and other traditional items is a must. You won’t be able to resist the vibrant and colorful shops here full of beautiful items, such as handicrafts, embroidered jutis, Rajasthani apparel, and accessories. You can also indulge in some street food as you explore the various shops in Station Road. If you want, you can also customize the design for footwear, and it’ll be ready in 24 hours. Station Road is definitely one of the places to visit in Bikaner.
Timings: 10 A.M to 5 P.M
Entry fee: N/A
Time required: 1 to 2 hours
Distance from Bikaner: Approx. 1 km
What to buy: Embroidered footwear, colorful clothes, silver jewelry, handicrafts, etc.
Nearby restaurants: Amberwalla, Utsav, Evergreen
Nearby hotels: Laxmi Niwas Palace, Hotel Jaswant Bhawan, Evergreen Hotel
Suggested Read: Things to Do in Alwar: Be a Part of Adventure in Rajasthan’s Oldest City
6. Witness a Glorious Sunset at Sursagar Lake: An Ideal Picnic Spot
Sursagar Lake has a fascinating history as it was dug out during Maharaja Sur Singh’s reign to solve the water shortage issue. This lake has drinking water during that period; however, it has not become unsuitable for consumption due to pollution. However, this lake is an excellent Bikaner sightseeing location and one of the most beautiful places to visit in India. You can boat on the lake, surrounded by lush greenery and calm water or you can watch the sun set into the lake, painting the sky in the hues of red and orange.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry fee: Approx INR 100/- for boating
Time required: 1 to 2 hours
Distance from Bikaner: Approx. 1 km
Highlights: Boating in the lake as the sun sets
Nearby restaurants: Hotel Sagar, Basant Vihar Palace Bikaner, Hotel Taj and Restaurant
Nearby hotels: Hotel Maharaja Ganga Mahal, Hotel Desert Winds, Bikaner Resort
Suggested Read: Best Places to Visit in Alwar: See the Regal Charm of Rajasthan
7. Beat the Heat at Skybird Water Park: A Breather from the Sun
Since Bikaner has a vast expanse of desert and is in Rajasthan, it’s obvious that regardless of the time you visit, you’ll feel the heat of the sun. However, we have a solution for that, which is to visit the Skybird Water Park. Enjoy the soothing feeling of being in cool water, away from the hot temperature and have fun at the thrilling rides that are ideal for children and adults. After all, splashing around in the water park is one of the most exhilarating things to do in India that you’re never too old for.
Timings: 9:30 A.M to 8 P.M
Entry fee: Around INR 200/-
Time required: 1 to 2 hours
Distance from Bikaner: Approx. 11 km
Highlights: The fun rides
Nearby hotels: Karni Bhawan Palace Heritage, Hotel Harasar Haveli, Heritage Resort
Suggested Read: Best Places to Visit in Munnar: Immerse Yourself in Nature's Paradise
8. Take Part in the Camel Festival: A Fun Annual Celebration
If you’re planning on visiting this city in January, then you must attend the Bikaner Camel Festival, which is celebrated with full gusto. The camels are made to wear colorful and vibrant clothes, accessories, etc. and they participate in several competitions. You can even go for a camel ride, eat delicious food, shop at the nearby stalls, and much more. It’s among the fun and exciting things to do in Bikaner that you can indulge in if you’re there during this time.
Time of celebration: January
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Highlights: Indulge in this fair for a glimpse of Rajasthani culture
Tips: Respect the culture and tradition, drink plenty of water, wear comfortable and light-colored clothes in the afternoon heat
Major attractions: Folk music, dance, fire dance, and puppet show
Planning a trip to Rajasthan needs you to be aware of all the places to visit and the activities there. Since Bikaner is a major city in Rajasthan, these were all the things to do in Bikaner that you can indulge in when vacationing there. A holiday is all about relaxing and having fun, so these activities have got you covered. Book our Bikaner tour packages and visit this glorious state and its marvelous cities.
Things to Do in Bikaner - FAQs
Here are some of the best activities you can try when exploring this city:
- Camel safari in the desert
- Shopping in local markets
- Boating in the lake
- Exploring tourist attractions
Bikaner’s famous for its camels and is also known as the “Land of Camels.” You can go for a camel safari, attend the Camel festival or visit the Camel research center.
Shopping in the streets of Bikaner has its own charm and when it comes to what to buy, you must shop for bangles, handicraft items, embroidered footwear, jewelry and so on.
If you wish to try the traditional cuisine of Bikaner, you can visit the following restaurants:
- Suraj Restaurant
- Heeralal’s
- Gallops Restaurant and Coffee House
- Amberwalla
Since Rajasthan generally has hot weather, it’ll do you good to visit the city from October to March. During these months, the temperature’s pleasant for you to enjoy the activities.
2 to 3 days are sufficient to explore this city in the best way possible. You can cover all the major attractions during this period.
When you’re traveling to Bikaner or any other city in Rajasthan, respect their culture and traditions, wear sunscreen, keep sunglasses and hats handy, and stay hydrated.
Bikaner’s famous food is Dal Baati Churma. Apart from that, it’s also popular for its Gatte ki Sabzi, Raj Kachori, Ghevar, etc.
