Things To Do
in Bīkaner

Crisp, spicy gram-flour snack invented in Bikaner — available across shops and packaged for travel; buy from established bhujia makers in the old bazaars.

Must-Try!

Rajasthani classic of baked wheat balls (baati) served with lentils and sweet churma — hearty and widely available at local restaurants and dhabas.

Sweet and savory stuffed kachoris and mithai (like ghevar and mawa-based sweets) sold at sweet shops and stalls across the city.

Traditional desert vegetable and bean preparation — tangy, salty and spicy, usually served with bajra roti.

Bustling market lanes with bhujia makers, sweet shops and street stalls selling kachori, mirchi bada and fresh chaats — ideal for sampling local snacks.

Near the clock tower you’ll find vendors and small eateries serving breakfast kachoris, jalebi and tea to locals and travelers.

Wear modest clothing out of respect for local customs — cover shoulders and knees, especially at temples and rural areas.

A palms-together 'Namaste' is a polite greeting. Use the right hand for giving/receiving items and avoid public displays of affection.

Remove shoes before entering temples, dress conservatively, and follow local rules (some areas may restrict photography or entry to non-Hindus).

Always ask permission before photographing individuals — many people are happy to be photographed if asked and sometimes expect a small tip.

Tipping is appreciated but not always expected: leave 5–10% in restaurants when service isn’t included, round up fares for auto-rickshaws and taxis, and tip guides (small daily amount or 5–10% of excursion fee).

Cash (Indian rupees) is widely used, especially in markets and small eateries. Cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants; mobile payments (UPI, Paytm) are common locally — carry small notes and coins for tips and tuk-tuks.

April–June are extremely hot; daytime highs often exceed 40–45°C (104–113°F). Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous walks midday.

June–September brings sparse, intermittent rains — humidity rises but showers are lighter than in coastal areas. Some dusty roads may get muddy; wildlife and birding can improve slightly after rains.

November–February are pleasant by day (15–25°C / 59–77°F) and chilly at night, sometimes near freezing — bring layers for cold mornings and evenings. This is the most comfortable time for sightseeing.

March and October are good compromise months with lower tourist crowds than winter and more comfortable temperatures than peak summer.

Prominent merchant and trading community with deep roots in Bikaner and strong influence over local business and culture.

Historic landholding and warrior communities present in the region with cultural influence visible in festivals and local traditions.

Religious and cultural minorities contribute to the city's diversity, with local mosques, shrines and craft traditions.

Nearby desert villages are home to pastoralists and farming communities whose livelihoods and lifestyles shape surrounding landscapes.

Vegetarian options are plentiful — Rajasthani cuisine is largely vegetarian-friendly. Ask for no ghee if avoiding dairy, and confirm ingredients as some dishes use yogurt or clarified butter.

Vegan choices exist but are less obvious; many lentil- and vegetable-based dishes are vegan but clarify use of ghee, butter, or milk in sweets and breads.

Millet-based rotis (bajra) and rice-based dishes are available, but fried snacks and breads usually contain wheat — always inform vendors and prefer simple dal and rice dishes.

Prefer bottled water, eat cooked hot food, and choose busy stalls for better turnover to reduce risk of stomach upset.