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View all Bikaner toursBikaner Heritage Journey: Explore Junagarh Fort & Karni Mata Temple



Begin your journey at the magnificent Junagarh Fort, one of Rajasthan’s few major forts not built on a hilltop, reflecting Rajput and Mughal architecture. Continue to the unique Karni Mata Temple, famously known as the Rat Temple. This sacred Hindu temple is home to thousands of revered rats, considered holy and protected by devotees.
Highlights
- Explore the magnificent Junagarh Fort, built in 1593 AD
- Experience the sacred atmosphere of Karni Mata Temple / the Rat Temple
- Sightseeing by AC car with official tour guide.
Choose from 1 available option
Bikaner Heritage Journey: Explore Junagarh Fort & Karni Mata Temple
Full description
Drive from Bikaner to Jaisalmer with enriching heritage stops along the way. Begin your journey at the magnificent Junagarh Fort, one of Rajasthan’s few major forts not built on a hilltop. Constructed in 1593, this grand complex showcases stunning palaces, intricately carved balconies, courtyards, and beautifully decorated chambers reflecting Rajput and Mughal architecture.
Within the fort premises, visit the renowned Prachina Museum, where you can admire royal portraits, traditional costumes, weapons, and rare artifacts that offer a glimpse into the regal lifestyle of Bikaner’s former rulers.
Continue to the unique Karni Mata Temple, famously known as the Rat Temple. This sacred Hindu temple is home to thousands of revered rats, considered holy and protected by devotees. Witness the fascinating rituals and learn about the temple’s spiritual significance before continuing your scenic desert drive onward to Jaisalmer.
Tour Itinerary
The schedule below is a suggested plan and can be adjusted to suit your preferences.
Hotel, Bikaner
Pick up & drive to fort
Junagarh fort
Visit, Guided Tour
Drive to Kerni mata Temple
Visit, Guided tour
Lunch
Lunch Break
Hotel, Bikaner
Detailed Itinerary
Bikaner Full-Day City Tour with Junagarh Fort & Karni Mata Temple
8:00 AM – Hotel Pickup in Bikaner
Your day begins with a warm welcome and comfortable pickup from your hotel in Bikaner in a private air-conditioned vehicle. Meet your professional local guide who will accompany you throughout the tour, sharing fascinating stories, historical insights, and hidden details about the city’s royal past.
8:30 AM – Visit Junagarh Fort
Start your exploration at the grand Junagarh Fort, built in 1593 by Raja Rai Singh. This impressive fort complex is one of Rajasthan’s finest, known for its massive walls, ornate gateways, and beautifully preserved interiors.
Walk through its stunning courtyards and visit magnificent palaces such as Anup Mahal, Badal Mahal, and Phool Mahal, decorated with mirror work, fresco paintings, carved wooden ceilings, and gold leaf artwork. Your guide will explain the strategic importance of the fort and the lifestyle of the royal family who once resided here.
10:30 AM – Visit Prachina Museum
Located within the fort complex, the Prachina Museum offers a closer look at royal heritage. Admire traditional royal costumes, jewelry, portraits, weapons, and rare artifacts that reflect the grandeur and cultural richness of Bikaner’s former rulers.
11:30 AM – Bikaner City Highlights
Continue your sightseeing with:
Lalgarh Palace – A magnificent red sandstone palace showcasing Indo-Saracenic architecture, built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in memory of his father.
Rampuria Havelis – Beautiful heritage mansions famous for their delicate carvings, jharokhas (balconies), and intricate façade work.
A walk through the vibrant local bazaars, where you can observe daily life, shop for handicrafts, camel leather products, miniature paintings, and taste the famous Bikaneri snacks.
1:30 PM – Lunch Break
Enjoy a relaxing lunch at a carefully selected local restaurant (at your own expense). You may choose to try authentic Rajasthani dishes such as Dal Baati Churma, Gatte Ki Sabzi, or Ker Sangri, offering a true taste of desert cuisine.
2:30 PM – Drive to Karni Mata Temple
After lunch, drive approximately 30 minutes to Deshnok to visit the unique Karni Mata Temple, famously known as the Rat Temple.
This sacred Hindu temple is home to thousands of revered rats, locally called “kabbas,” believed to be reincarnations of devotees. Witness devotees offering food and milk to the rats and learn about the fascinating legend associated with Karni Mata. The temple’s marble structure, detailed carvings, and beautifully crafted silver doors make it architecturally impressive as well.
4:30 PM – Return Drive to Bikaner
Relax during your comfortable drive back to Bikaner, enjoying views of rural landscapes and desert surroundings.
5:30 PM – Hotel Drop-off
Your memorable full-day Bikaner tour concludes with a safe drop-off at your hotel, leaving you with rich cultural experiences and lasting memories of Rajasthan’s royal heritage.
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Includes
- All transfers and sight seen by private vehicle.
- Toll tax, parking, driver allowance and fuel.
- Professional guide
Excludes
- Hotel
- Entry Tickets
- Meals
Important information
Meeting point
Bikaner
Know before you go
- Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the activity starts