7 Most Famous Temples in Bikaner

Bikaner, a city steeped in history and culture, is home to some of the most beautiful and spiritually significant temples in Rajasthan. From the rat-worshipping Karni Mata Temple to the architectural splendor of Bhandasar Jain Temple, each site offers a unique glimpse into the region’s religious devotion and artistic heritage. These temples not only serve as places of worship but also as cultural and community centers, preserving ancient traditions and fostering communal harmony.

List of the 7 Temples You Must Visit in Bikaner:

1. Karni Mata Temple

Karni Mata Temple, located in Deshnok near Bikaner, is renowned for its unique worshipping of holy rats, known as kabbas, which are considered to be the reincarnated descendants of Karni Mata. The temple, constructed primarily from marble, features intricate carvings and silver doors.

Legend holds that Karni Mata, a mystic revered by her followers as an incarnation of Goddess Durga, promised her followers that they would be reborn as rats in her temple. Visitors flock here especially during Navratri to witness and participate in the grand celebrations. Check more details: Karni Mata Temple, Bikaner: A Complete Travel Guide

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2. Laxminath Temple

Laxminath Temple, built by Maharaja Rao Lunkaran, and adorned by later rulers, stands as one of Bikaner’s oldest and most revered structures. The temple showcases a splendid fusion of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles, with elaborate frescoes and intricate latticework gracing its façade.

It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, attracting countless devotees during Diwali and Holi, who come to seek divine blessings. The temple’s historical significance and beautiful craftsmanship make it a pivotal element of Bikaner’s spiritual and cultural life.

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3. Bhandasar Jain Temple

The Bhandasar Jain Temple is a beacon of Jain faith and an architectural masterpiece, renowned for its beautiful leaf paintings, intricate mirror work, and vibrant frescoes that depict scenes from Jain scriptures.

Built-in the 15th century by Bhandasa Oswal, this temple is noted for its extensive use of ghee in the mortar, which locals say seeps through the floor during warmer days. The temple not only serves as a place of worship but also a testament to the rich artistic heritage and meticulous craftsmanship of the time.

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4. Shiv Bari Temple

Shiv Bari Temple, commissioned by Maharaja Doongar Singh in the late 19th century, is enclosed within a high-wall compound and features a striking black marble Shiva lingam. The temple, built from red sandstone, showcases classic Rajput architecture with its pillared halls and intricate latticework.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it draws a significant number of devotees during Maha Shivratri, when the temple premises echo with chants and prayers, creating a profoundly spiritual atmosphere that attracts worshippers from all across India.

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5. Ratan Bihari Temple

Ratan Bihari Temple, erected by Ratan Singhji in the 19th century, is a splendid example of Rajput architecture combined with influences from the Victorian style. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, this temple is particularly vibrant during Janmashtami, celebrating Krishna’s birth with great fervor and enthusiasm.

The temple is known for its striking murals and exquisite craftsmanship, which illustrate scenes from the life of Krishna, making it a center of devotion and celebration in the heart of Bikaner.

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6. Shri Laleshwar Mahadev Temple

Shri Laleshwar Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and reflects the deep spiritual roots of Bikaner’s people with its traditional Rajasthani architectural style. The temple, known for its serene atmosphere and spiritual reverence, plays a crucial role in the community, particularly during the month of Shravan, when special rituals and poojas are performed attracting devotees from various regions.

The temple’s commitment to serving the community extends beyond spiritual practices as it actively engages in social welfare activities.

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7. Kodamdeshwar Temple

The Kodamdeshwar Temple is an open-air shrine that stands on the outskirts of Bikaner, featuring a distinctive architectural style with a prominent stone spire that is visible from afar. This temple, though less known, holds a pivotal role in the spiritual life of the locals and serves as a venue for annual fairs which are a confluence of spiritual devotion and cultural festivities.

The temple’s emphasis on promoting Rajasthani folk traditions through music and dance during these fairs makes it a cultural hub, fostering a strong sense of community and heritage.

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How to Reach Bikaner

Bikaner, a prominent city in Rajasthan, is well-connected by air, rail, and road, making it accessible to travelers from both within India and from abroad.

By Air:

The nearest airport to Bikaner is Jodhpur Airport, located about 250 kilometers away. This airport is well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. From Jodhpur, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bikaner, which will take approximately 4-5 hours.

By Train:

Bikaner is well-served by the Indian Railways with the Bikaner Junction and Lalgarh Railway Station being the main railway stations in the city. There are regular trains from New Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Kolkata, and Mumbai to Bikaner. The city’s railway connectivity makes it an easy and convenient option for travelers.

By Road:

Bikaner has a good network of roads connecting it to major cities in Rajasthan and nearby states. State-run buses, as well as private luxury coaches, are available from major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. For those who prefer to drive, the journey from Delhi to Bikaner by road is about 450 kilometers and takes around 8 hours via NH 11, which is a well-maintained national highway.

Conclusion

The temples of Bikaner are more than just architectural marvels; they are vibrant hubs of cultural and spiritual activity that play a crucial role in the daily lives of the local community. As sites of heritage and pilgrimage, they attract visitors from across the globe, offering a rich tapestry of history, art, and devotion. Exploring these temples provides a deeper understanding of Bikaner’s identity and contributes to the preservation of its unique cultural landscape for future generations.

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