Bikaner

District: Bikaner

State: Rajasthan

Country: India

Bikaner State's official website:
Website: http://bikaner.rajasthan.gov.in/

Head quarter: Bikaner

Populations: 2367745

Area: 27244 km²

Density: 78 km²

Bikaner district, located in the northwestern state of Rajasthan in India, is a region known for its rich history, architectural marvels, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. The district is named after its headquarters, the city of Bikaner, which is famous for its majestic palaces, ancient temples, and bustling markets.

One of the main attractions of Bikaner district is the Junagarh Fort, a formidable fortress built in the 16th century by Raja Rai Singh. This magnificent fort is known for its impressive architecture, with intricately carved stone walls, grand courtyards, and beautiful palaces. The fort houses several museums that showcase the rich heritage and history of the region, including an exquisite collection of weapons, armor, paintings, and manuscripts.

Bikaner is also famous for its numerous havelis, which are grand mansions built by wealthy merchants in the past. These havelis are known for their exquisite frescoes, intricate carvings, and unique architectural styles, representing a blend of Rajput, Mughal, and British influences. The Rampuria Havelis, Kothari Haveli, and Bhairon Vilas are some of the prominent havelis that attract tourists for their architectural beauty and historical significance.

The district is also renowned for its ancient temples that are an important part of the region's cultural heritage. The Karni Mata Temple, also known as the Rat Temple, is a unique temple dedicated to Karni Mata, considered as the incarnation of Goddess Durga. The temple is famous for its thousands of resident rats, which are considered sacred and worshipped by devotees. The Bhandasar Jain Temple, dedicated to the 5th Jain Tirthankara, is another prominent temple known for its exquisite marble carvings and intricate artwork.

Bikaner is also known for its vibrant culture, with colorful festivals, folk music, dance forms, and traditional arts and crafts. The Bikaner Camel Festival, held annually, is a popular event that showcases the rich culture and heritage of the region. The festival features camel races, camel dances, traditional music and dance performances, and local handicrafts, providing a glimpse into the vibrant cultural traditions of Bikaner.

The district is also famous for its cuisine, which is known for its unique flavors and mouthwatering delicacies. Bikaneri Bhujia, a spicy and crispy snack made from gram flour, is a popular local specialty that is savored by locals and tourists alike. Other famous dishes include Gatte ki Sabzi, Papad ki Sabzi, Kachori, and Rasgulla. The local street food scene in Bikaner, with its array of savory and sweet treats, is a culinary delight for food lovers.

Bikaner district also has several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. The Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary, located on the banks of the Gajner Lake, is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including chinkara, blackbuck, wild boar, and a variety of migratory birds. The Tal Chhapar Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its population of blackbucks and is also a birdwatcher's paradise with a large number of resident and migratory birds.

In conclusion, Bikaner district in Rajasthan is a region known for its rich history, architectural wonders, vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and abundant natural beauty.