Bikaner holds a secondary rank amongst the principalities of Rajpootana. It is an offset of Marwar, its princes being scions of the house of Joda, who established themselves by conquest on the northern frontier of the parent state and its position, in the heart of the desert, has contributed to the maintenance of their independence.

Bikaner was founded in the year 1488 by Rao bika, a descendant of Jodha, the founder of Jodhpur. It covers an area of 38.10 square km. It lies in the north of Rajasthan at an altitude of 237 mts above sea level. Earlier, it was a major trade centre as it lies on the ancient caravan route which linked central Asia and North India with the Gujarat seaports. This city is famous for its superb fort, camel safaris and Karni Mata temple. In this temple thousands of holy rats are worshipped. Hindi, Rajasthani, Marwari and English are the common languages which are spoken here.

History of Bikaner
A Rajput prince Rao Bika ji who was the descendent of Rao Jodha Ji, the founder of Jodhpur established his kingdom in Bikaner in 1459 AD. Bika Ji chose a barren land called "Jungladesh" and shaped it into an impressive city called Bikaner. Ever since the foundation of Bikaner till its accession into Indian Union in 1947 A.D. and after it's integration in Rajasthan state in 1949 AD, Bikaner has played a notable role in the history of Rajasthan. Bikaner has produced several able Generals and warriors and distinguished rulers like Raja Rai Singh and Raja Anup Singh. Bikaner has many magnificent buildings made of reddish pink sandstone that transcends the surrounding barren wilderness.

Food Habits
Bikaner is famous all over the world for it's sweets and namkeens, the city offers over 500 years old culture and heritage, the very feel of Rajasthan. Bikaner, known in the world for it's "Bhujia & Papads", spicy snacks made from fried gram and pulses and also for "Rasgullas" a dessert.

Majot Tourist Attraction in Bikaner

• 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.
• Lalgarh Palace
  Designed by a Britisher for Maharaja Ganga Singh, this palace displays a magnificent blend of oriental and European style. The imposing red sandstone monument is designed by Sir Swinton Jacob for Maharaja Ganga Singh.
• The Ganga Golden Jubilee Temple
  It is one of the best in Rajasthan, houses an interesting collection of sculptures, terracotta ware, paintings and also musical instruments.
• The Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary
  It is 32 kms away and located on the Jaisalmer road. Bluebull, chinkara and black buck can be found. There are flocks of imperial sand grouse too.

Howto get here

• By Air
  The nearest airport to Bikaner is Jodhpur which is about 247 km away.
• By Rail
  Bikaner is on the meter gauge network of the western Railways. It has convenient connections from Delhi and Jodhpur. Air-conditioned coaches are attached to Delhi trains.
• By Road
  Bikaner is well connected by road to the various cities in Rajasthan. Regular bus service operates between Bikaner and major cities like Jaipur, Kota, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur and Ajmer. Rajasthan Roadways run daily deluxe coaches between Jaipur and Bikaner.