 Founded in 1488, Bikaner is a
desert built on an elevation and surrounded by a long embattled wall pierced by five
gates. A magnificient fort built betwen 1588 & 1593 by Raja Raj Singh dominates the
city. Best season to visit is between October to March.Sheer beauty in the desert is
the royal fortified city of Bikaner. Lying at the northern tip of the
famous triangle of the desert cities, Bikaner is a beautiful medival
town. The genesis of Bikaner dates back to 1488, when a Rathore prince,
Rao Bikaji, son of Rao Jodhaji of Jodhpur, chose a barren wilderness
called ’Jangladesh’ and transformed it to a charming city called
’Bikaner’, after the founder’s name. Its location on the ancient caravan
routes, which linked Central Asia and North India with the Gujarat
seaports, made Bikaner a bustling trade centre in the times of yore.
 Bikaner’s forts, palaces and
temples – magnificent creations in red and yellow sandstone, are living
manifestations of its rich historical and architectural legacy. One can
feel the medieval aura pervading the city’s lifestyle.
Not only do the traditions come alive
here in colourful bazaars and havelis, but Bikaner is also famous for the best riding
camels in the world. One can witness gaily caparisoned camels at the spectacular Camel
Festival at Bikaner, held annually.
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