Bikaner to Jaisalmer: Junagarh Fort & Rat Temple Tour

Bikaner to Jaisalmer: Junagarh Fort & Rat Temple Tour
Location: Rajasthan, India
Country: India
Price: $58 per person
Supplier: Jee Travels

A practical journey through Rajasthan’s cultural gems

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Rajasthan’s history and spirituality, all within a manageable day trip. Starting in Bikaner, you’ll visit the imposing Junagarh Fort—a fortress built in 1593 that’s unlike most others because it’s not perched on a hill but on the flat plains of the Thar Desert. After exploring its 37 palaces and courtyards, you’ll head to the unique Karni Mata Temple, famously home to around 25,000 revered rats, and then enjoy a scenic drive through the desert to Jaisalmer.

Two things really stand out: First, the Junagarh Fort’s architecture—a beautiful blend of Rajput, Mughal, and Gujarati styles—means you’ll see vibrant frescoes and intricate carvings that tell stories of the past. Second, the Karni Mata Temple’s spiritual appeal, especially the sight of the thousands of black rats, considered sacred and protected, makes it a memorable cultural experience.

A possible drawback for some travelers is the long drive through the desert, which can be tiring, especially on hot days. The tour is best suited for those interested in history, architecture, or spiritual sites, and who don’t mind a full day on the road.

If you’re keen on seeing Rajasthan’s renowned forts and temples without overextending your schedule, this tour offers genuine value—combining history, culture, and stunning desert scenery in one affordable package.

Key Points

• Historical significance: Junagarh Fort, built in 1593, showcases Mughal and Rajput architecture.
• Unique spiritual site: Karni Mata Temple’s sacred rats are a rare sight and deeply revered.
• Cultural insights: The silver gates at the temple, donated by Maharaja Ganga Singh, highlight Rajasthan’s regal art.
• Scenic drive: Traveling through the Thar Desert offers beautiful views and a taste of Rajasthan’s arid landscape.
• Value for money: For just $58, you get multiple significant sites, transportation, and expert guidance.
• Flexible options: The tour includes private transfers, with the possibility to add guided commentary and tickets.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A detailed look at what this tour offers

Starting in Bikaner: The Gateway to Rajasthan

The day begins with a pickup from your hotel, airport, railway station, or bus stand—making it straightforward to fit into your travel plans. The small group size or private vehicle options mean you won’t be stuck in a large, noisy crowd. Instead, you’ll enjoy a relaxed journey through the desert landscape.

Visiting Junagarh Fort: A Fortress Unlike Any Other

Built by Raja Rai Singh, a trusted general of Mughal Emperor Akbar, Junagarh Fort offers a striking contrast to Rajasthan’s typical hilltop forts. It’s situated on the plains, surrounded by a deep moat, and its walls and courtyards are a testament to the military and architectural prowess of the time. Inside, we loved the way the interior courtyards give a sense of openness, unlike the more enclosed hill forts.

The palaces—Chandra Mahal, Phool Mahal, and Karan Mahal—are decorated with frescoes, mirror work, and intricate carvings, echoing the luxurious lifestyle of the Rajas of Bikaner. The museum inside is packed with miniature paintings, royal costumes, and historic artifacts, offering a tangible connection to Rajasthan’s regal past. The guide, if included, will point out the details that bring the stories alive.

The Sacred Karni Mata Temple: Rats and Reverence

A short drive from Bikaner takes you to Deshnoke, home to the Karni Mata Temple—a site that’s both visually intriguing and spiritually significant. The temple’s most famous feature is its congregation of 25,000 black rats. These rodents are considered sacred and are fed and protected, a practice stemming from legends about Karni Mata herself.

The temple’s ornate silver gates, donated by Maharaja Ganga Singh, are a highlight—intricately carved and gleaming against the marble façade. As you walk through the corridors filled with the scurrying rats, you’ll feel the weight of local beliefs and traditions.

Many reviews highlight the spiritual experience here, with one traveler noting, “Seeing the rats cared for as sacred beings made me appreciate the local faith in a whole new way.” Spotting a rare white rat is believed to bring good luck, adding to the sense of mystique.

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The Scenic Drive to Jaisalmer

After the temple visit, it’s time to enjoy the scenic drive through the Thar Desert. The landscape is a stark, beautiful reminder of Rajasthan’s arid beauty—vast, open, and dotted with occasional villages or camels. It’s a great chance to reflect on the centuries of history and culture that have shaped the region.

The drive typically takes a few hours, but with comfortable private transportation, you can relax and enjoy the views. The journey ends at your accommodation in Jaisalmer, ready for your next adventure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers excellent value for $58, covering all transfers, tolls, parking, driver allowances, and fuel. The option to add a professional guide and entry tickets makes it flexible depending on your preferences. Keep in mind that lunch, dinner, drinks, and personal expenses are not included, so plan accordingly.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Rajasthan’s cultural and spiritual sites without spending days on the road. History buffs, architecture lovers, and those intrigued by local legends will find plenty to appreciate. It’s suited for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and a bit of travel through the desert.

Final thoughts

For just $58, this tour packs a punch with significant sites and authentic experiences. You’ll love the stunning architecture and intricate details of Junagarh Fort and the spiritual mystique of the Rat Temple. The scenic desert drive offers a peaceful break from busy city sightseeing, giving you a broader sense of Rajasthan’s landscape and culture.

While the long drive might feel tiring for some, the inclusion of private transport and flexible options help balance comfort with adventure. This tour is especially suited for travelers eager to see both history and spiritual traditions in a single, affordable day trip.

In summary, if you’re visiting Bikaner and want a meaningful, well-organized experience that combines history, spirituality, and desert scenery, this tour offers real value and memorable sights.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for most age groups. However, young children should be comfortable with walking and long drives.

How long does the entire tour take?
The tour is designed as a full day, starting with pickup in Bikaner and ending at your hotel or desired location in Jaisalmer.

Are guides included?
Guides can be added if you select the option; otherwise, you’ll explore with a driver or on your own.

Are entry tickets included?
Entry tickets are included if you choose that option, allowing smoother access to sites like Junagarh Fort and the Rat Temple.

What should I wear?
Light, comfortable clothing suitable for hot weather, along with sturdy shoes for walking around the fort and temple.

Can I expect to have free time?
The itinerary is structured, but you’ll have some time at each site to explore and take photos.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
Rajasthan’s climate is hot in summer, so cooler months (October to March) are preferable.

Is this a private or group tour?
It depends on your booking—options are available for private or shared experiences.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot online in advance, with the flexibility to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours before the tour.

This tour offers a practical and rewarding way to experience some of Rajasthan’s most iconic sites, ideal for curious travelers eager to connect with the region’s history and spiritual traditions without the hassle of organizing logistics on their own.

You can check availability for your dates here: