Offbeat things to do in Bikaner:

I had previously mentioned that Bikaner is more than a world-famous snack and should be explored leisurely. If you have more days in hand and desire to walk lesser taken path, here is a list of offbeat things to do in Bikaner:

Camel Festival in Bikaner:

Bikaner is home to the desert camels. Also known as the Camel city, it is famous for its Camel festival held in January every year.The festival sees thousands of decorated Camels dancing to folk music amongst other fun activities at the event. The fair also hosts camel races, camel games and other cultural activities. The traditional live music and cultural dance performances are a treat to watch. Also, do check out the stalls around which sell beautiful handmade jewellery and camel milk sweets among other things.

Visit the Camel Farm in Bikaner:

Do not fret if you missed the Camel Fair. You can see and interact with the camels at the only Camel breeding farm, The National Research Centre. You can opt to go for a camel ride or simply enjoy the sweets & kulfis made using Camel milk.

Visit the miniature art studio:

Perched outside Junagarh Fort, Miniature Art Studio is run by the Swami family that creates and displays miniature artwork of different kind. You can witness the artist working his magic and even buy souvenirs at relatively low prices.

Camping in Bikaner:

Spend a few days away from the city in the heart of the desert. We stayed at Rao Bikaji Camp; a peaceful camp site located a few kms outside the city. The city lights were replaced by stars, the asphalt strips were substituted for rolling sand dunes and motorised vehicles made way for a camel safari into the sunset; all of this at relatively lower prices than Jaisalmer.A stay in the deserts of Bikaner is a great alternative to Jaisalmer especially if you want to stay away from crowds and escalating rates for camping. The sand dunes in Bikaner are smaller than the Sam Sand dunes and Khuri Sand Dunes in Jaisalmer but watching the sun go down with your partner by your side and no one else in frame is a magical experience.

Camping under the stars in Bikaner:

There are several camping sites in this particular stretch, but we chose Rao Bikaji since it was the least crowded and more peaceful.You can choose to stay in tents, neatly built mud houses, Swiss tents or even choose to sleep under the stars. No points for guessing which one we chose.And while you are here, do not miss out on the traditional folk dance (Fire Dance) followed by some lovely homemade meal that includes authentic Dal Bhati Churma and Gate ki Sabzi.

Immerse yourself in moonlight:

Plan your trip during the full moon weekend during winters. The cool desert sands basking in the glory of the full moon on a clear night dotted with twinkling stars above & swaying desert trees below feel like a chapter straight out of the Arabian Nights. This is by far the best Offbeat things to do in Bikaner.

Wild life Spotting at Gajner Sanctuary:

Fancy spotting wildlife in their habitats then head to Gajner Sanctuary. Originally the hunting grounds for Maharaja Gaj Singh, the sanctuary is home to black bucks, antelopes, foxes, wild boars and more. To get the best glimpse of these magnificent creatures, stop by Gajner Lake situated at the centre of the sanctuary.

Visit Devi Kund Sagar – Cenotaphs:

Similar to the popular Cenotaphs of Jaipur and Udaipur, Bikaner has its own Cenotaph, the Royal Crematorium. A few kms off the main road, the entry fee to Devi Kund Sagar is a mere Rs.5 with no additional charges for photography. The umbrella shaped structures are constructed to mark the tombs of the deceased members of the royal families. The farthest end of the compound houses a temple and a small lake beyond the complex walls. Avoid entertaining the local drunk asking for tips. Also, you would not need a guide to take you around.I have visited all the major cities of Rajasthan; Udaipur, Jaipur, Jaisalmer & Jodhpur. Yet Bikaner stands out in our memory lane. It is one of the most underrated cities in Rajasthan. Hope you find this guide helpful and visit Bikaner soon.Until Then,TheWickedSoul

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