Bikaner

Bikaner, situated in the North-West part of Rajasthan, is a very historic Indian city, and perhaps the cheapest and best way to get there is to catch a bus from the Bikaner House in Delhi. The city of Bikaner is in the midst of the sand dunes of the Thar Desert, and offers some of the best came riding opportunities in the world. This is why it is also called ‘camel country.'

New Delhi, the capital of India, is a great place to start your Indian adventure. Most of the cheap international flights fly into Delhi, and there is an extensive transportation system here to get you to other parts of the country. Obviously, you can get local flights, but flying is just not the same as watching the changing scenery from your bus or train window.

There are very affordable and well maintained Volvo buses that set out from Bikaner House Delhi to destinations like Bikaner and Jaipur. You have the option of booking your ticket on the spot here, which makes it very convenient. The Bikaner House is located centrally very near to the India Gate, and the bus service from here is known to be very reliable.

The city of Bikaner is renowned for its camel riding. Without these indispensable, hardy animals, life in the city would virtually come to a standstill. They help in the transportation of water, food and materials, to and from the city.

The strategic location of this city has played a key role in its overall development and success. It was located right on the ancient caravan route from West and Central Asia, and became an important trading hub. Since it has an elevated position, it was also an important stronghold in times of war, and there are forts at the strategically important high points in the city. Some of these, like the formidable Jungarah Fort, are popular tourist attractions these days. The Jungarah fort has very intricate stone carvings, and the handprints seen on the walls commemorate the tragic wives of martyred soldiers, who immolated themselves on their husbands' funeral pyres.

The Lalgarh Palace is another important tourist spot. It houses a fascinating collection of curios and artifacts belonging to the various kings who ruled this city in years gone by. No more than a few kilometers from this palace, you will get to see the royal chatri of Devi Kund. Its magnificent domed structures present quite a sight and are great to photograph.

The Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary nearby is definitely worth visiting. The only way to get into the protected forest reserve is to rent a vehicle at the Gajner Palace Hotel. If you want to get off the beaten track, check out the Shiv Bari Temple outside the main town. The quiet atmosphere and architecture here make it worth a look. Further along the same route, there is a camel breeding farm, which is the best place to learn about these irreplaceable gentle beasts.

So, if you are in the mood for some camel-back exploration, get a bus from the Bikaner House, and dive straight into the inimitable camel country!