Bikaner is a large city surrounded by the Thar Desert. Like many other cities in Rajasthan, it is known for a famous fort built in the 16th century called the Junagarh Fort. The city is located in the Bikaner district and was founded by Rao Bika in 1488, of the Rathor family. One of the popular palaces here is the Laxmi Niwas Palace, which was built by the ruler of the state of Bikaner.
Bikaner’s Bhandasar Jain temple is a tourist destination because of its beautiful frescoes, mirror work and paintings. Bikaner is rich in culinary delights as well and a known destination for foodies. Within the fort, the Prachina Museum displays traditional textiles and royal portraits. Nearby, the Karni Mata Temple is home to many rats considered sacred by Hindu devotees.