BIKANER: Rajasthan's Under Rated Gem
By Divyakshi Gupta
If you thought Bikaner was all about the famed Bhujia Namkeen, you're clearly missing out. This under-rated city has a LOT to offer!
Visit the Junagadh fort, one of the most well maintained forts in India. Where each room is built in a spectacular way.
Do not miss the fine Utsa art on the ceilings and walls of the Mahals inside the fort. Utsa art is a traditional art form brought to India from Persia.
Visit the Karni Mata temple in Deshnok also known as the Rat temple as 20,000 rats reside here. There are legends and bizarre stories that make this a must visit place.
Visit another very unique temple: The Bhandashah temple, made up of ghee mixed with mortar and an approximate of 400000 kgs of ghee was used.
It is believed that this temple was built by a wealthy Jain merchant, Bhanda Oswal in the 14th century and there is intricate gold work in every nook and corner.
Visit the splendid Rampuria Havelis constructed in the striking red Dulmera sandstone by the wealthy merchant clan of Rampuria in the 1400s.
The Bazaars of Bikaner are a delight: Visit the Kote gate market and find a long stretch of local shops selling chillies, to clothes, to namkeens to jewellery.