This Royal walled city is a part of the desert tourist triangle and lies on the northern tip of the triangle. The city was founded in 1486 AD by the Rathore prince, Rao Bikaji, hence the name Bikaner. Bikaji was son of Rao Jodhaji who had asked his son to establish a kingdom of his own. The challenge was accepted and Bikaji choose the wild country 'Jangaldesh' as his territory and thus the city of Bikaner came into existence.

According to mythology, he performed the 'Yajna' at Jyeshtha Pushkar from Kartik Shukla Ekadashi to Purnima. Lakhs of devotees assemble and bathe in the holy waters during this period of the year; but bathing on the last day which is the full moon (Purnima) day, confers special blessings. 

A seven-kilometres wall with five entrances was built to protect the city from vagaries of the desert and any external aggression. The city flourished as an important trade centre between Gujarat seaports and West Asian countries. The unbroken line of descendants of Bikaji ruled Bikaner till India got Independence. Bikaner is known for good breed of riding camels, which are among the best in the world. The Camel Festival held every year is famous all over the globe. Bikaner has many magnificent buildings made of Reddish Pink sandstone that transcends the surrounding barren wilderness. Unlike other cities of Rajasthan, Bikaner has been able to preserve its traditional aura of the medieval era, which makes a visitor come here year after year.

PRIME ATTRACTIONS
FORTS AND PALACES

Junagarh Fort: 
One of the most imposing forts of northern India-- Junagarh Fort-- has remained unconquered till date. This fort was built in 15th century by one of the most able and trusted generals of Akbar, Raja Rai Singh.

Lalgadh Palace: Designed by a Britisher for Maharaja Ganga Singh, this palace displays a magnificient blend of Oriental and European style.

MUSEUMS
The Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum: This small museum has a large collection of pre-Harappan, Gupta and Kushan pottery. The rich collection of pottery, carpets, paintings, armoury and coins make this museum one of the best in Rajasthan. The Bikaneri miniatures, which are displayed in a sepetrate section for local arts, makes visit to the museum a must. 

EXCURSIONS
TEMPLES 

Bhandeshwar & Sandeshwar Temples: Five kms from the city, these temples are the oldest surviving monuments of aesthetic heritage. These were built by two brothers and the temples carry their names. The mirror work and the gold leaf paintings in the temple are noteworthy. The temples are dedicated to 23rd Jain teerthankar, Parsvanathji. 

WILDLIFE
Gajner Wild Life Sanctuary: 32 kms on the Jaisalmer Road is located the Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary. Wooded hills and lakes surround the lush green forest. One can easily spot a Blue Bull, Chinkara, Black Buck or flocks of Sand Grouse and Wild Boar living in the sanctuary. 

Archaeology

Kalibanga: One of the major archaeology sites of the Harappan civilisation. This place houses immense treasure of our past and is of particular interest to archaeology enthusiasts. 

CITIES
Kolayat: 54-km from Bikaner, it is a picnic spot. 

OTHERS
Camel Breeding Farms: Take a ride on one or watch the calves gambolling, or submit to a Raika or a Rebari from traditional camel breeder, over a cup of camel's milk at the camel breeding farms just eight kms away from the city. This farm is the only of its kind in Asia. 

Devi Kund: This is the royal crematorium with a number of cenotaphs. The 'chhatri' of Maharaja Surat Singh is most imposing. One cannot miss the spectacular Rajput paintings on the ceilings. 8 kms from Bikaner.