Interesting Travel information on Bikaner ,Rajasthan

Though it's not quite in the same league as Jaisalmer when it comes to exotica, the colourful desert city of Bikaner is nevertheless worth more than a mere stopover.Bikaner is an integral part of Rajasthan tour packages , Bikaner, a city dominated by the imposing citadel known as the Junagarh Fort, and protected against enemies by equally impressive ramparts, was founded in 1486 AD by the Rathore ruler Rao Bikaji. In the centuries since its foundation, Bikaner has grown and evolved, from being a mere fortress town to an important trading centre and now to a must-do on any desert circuit itinerary in Rajasthan.

Bikaner, Rajasthan

Bikaner is the fourth largest city in Rajasthan, but despite that fact it is not as crowded with visitors as, say, Pushkar or Jaisalmer. Which accounts for the more unspoilt ambience of the city, the almost medieval aura that envelops the havelis and streets, bazaars and homes of Bikaner. Visitors coming to Bikaner to wander through the awesome Junagarh Fort, to go shopping for the delectable savouries known as Bikaneri bhujia, or to take a trip to the nearby Karni Mata Temple at Deshnoke, are certain to find something more than just another touristy city.

Bikaner's charms may not be as flamboyant as those of Rajasthan's larger cities; in fact too many people tend to equate this town with not much more than pretty mundane commerce. But give it a try- come visiting, check out the sights, savour the bhujias and the rasgullas, check out the annual Camel Festival- and Bikaner may just work its magic on you.

Bikaner Camel Fastival

Bikaner has a bus system, but it is none too good, and buses are few and far between. More practical modes of transport within the city and around include auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, tourist taxis and rented cars/bicycles. The latter are available from travel agents and tour operators across town, and most good hotels can also make arrangements for a vehicle for guests. Auto-rickshaws are among the cheaper options available, but it is essential to negotiate fares in advance, as meters are an unheard of luxury!

Bikaner's range of accommodation options for the visitor is sufficiently wide to cater to most tastes and budgets. One the one end, at the upper end of the scale, are the plush hotels with fancy dining facilities, air-conditioned rooms, swimming pools and other amenities (all, of course, for tariffs that generally begin at a couple of thousand rupees per night!). At the other end of the scale, catering to those on more restricted budgets, are an array of budget hotels and guesthouses, both privately-owned as well as run by the RTDC, which are generally comfortable enough, even though they may not offer too many facilities. In addition to these, budget travellers can opt for paying guest accommodation, which can be arranged by contacting the RTDC office in Bikaner.

For those looking for an authentic taste of regal Marwar, Bikaner's heritage hotels are the answer. A number of palaces and havelis, formerly residences of Bikaner's royalty and aristocracy have now been converted into posh hotels that make for excellent tourist accommodation.

Bikaner

For more information on holidays to Rajasthan , contact one of the leading travel agents in India - Swan Tours at 011-23415601

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