Bikaner Camel Festival – Hundreds of camels reside in Bikaner. They are the most important part of the desert region. They help locals sustain themselves for transport. They are a military asset for the Bikaner Risala. Camels are the main animal in Rajasthan and were declared the state animal in 2014. Camels are a source of livelihood for the locals. You will have the opportunity to purchase camel milk, woolen products, and looms. Some great camel bags, jackets, and purses. There are 2 types of breeds, Bikaneri and Mewari. They are deeply woven into cultural fabrics with herders. It depicts folk tales and traditions.
Camels were also used in wars earlier by the Mughals, and continue to be a pillar for the military protecting the desert today, along the borders. The Bikarneri camels are the tough and hardy ones, and the Mewaris are known for their adaptability in hilly terrains. They are the main milk producers. Camels are known as “ The Ship of the Desert”.
The Bikaner Camel Festival is an annual gathering. Right in the middle of the desert in January, it is organised by the Rajasthan tourism department. Camel owners, farmers, and the BSF get their camels and participate in the festival.
The camels are decorated with a lot of love for this state animal. Artistic and creative designs and patterns are made on the camel skin by trimming and shaving the fur. They are also made to wear some jewelry, tassels. They are made to wear desi rajasthani bright colored clothes. Shining bright with vibrance, they look just great in the desert sand. It’s definitely a site one cannot miss. There are several contests where the “The Best dressed” and “ Best Haircut” awards are given too.
The camel race is a core event. Here camels are with their riders, who display the speed and unique abilities of the desert animal. There are also other displays of camel acrobatics. Beauty pageant is yet another competition to not miss. Other contests include the breed contest, camel milking, and fur cutting. There is a beautiful procession that takes place from Junagarh Fort to Dr. Karni Singh Stadium. Alongside the camels, you can see some professional folk dancers and traditional musicians. It’s a great vibe to see the Rajasthani culture along with fire dancers and fireworks. You will see the overall festival glamour at Junagarh Fort, Kari Singh stadium and Raisar Sand Dunes. The owners walk with pride, showcasing the pride ofthe Bikaner desert.
Camels with well Hair Art, Geometric and floral designs, shavedand trimmed in some great piece of complex art, and not to forget the skin is painted and dyed with natural colors, is so picture perfect. Enhanced with some embroidered textiles and traditional Rajasthani attire makes them look vibrant. Mirrors and beads make them look Majestic. Camels become a living piece of art that transforms it into a festive display.
When at the Bikaner Camel Festival, you can’t miss the Rajasthani and traditional delicious snacks and meals. Try some local and famous Bikaneri Bhujia, Raj Kachoris & Samosa. Ghewar is something you just can’t miss specially with some fresh malai. Rajasthani thali with baati, dal, gatte ki sabjhi, curry, and chutney you can drool on.
Try some traditional indian ice creams, Lassi and Kulfi. There are many authentic food stalls, dhabbas, and restaurants at the Bikaner Camel Festival.
How to reach Bikaner Camel Festival
You can reach Jaipur or Jodhpur at your convenience, either by flight or train from your city. Most major cities are connected. You can then take connecting flights, trains, buses, or a taxi to Bikaner. Then head to any royal stay options, relax, and look around the city.
You can explore some places in Bikaner like the Lalgarh Palace, Laxmi Niwas Palace, Karni Mata Temple, Bhandasar Jain Temple, Kodamdesar temple, National Research Centre on camel, Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary, and Rampuria Haveli. You can also enjoy some Camel safaris. Shop till you drop with local handicrafts and textiles in the bazars. Bikaner is full of some great Royal places and forts, but don’t forget why you’re here! The Bikaner Camel Festival.
Head to the start of the procession site and see the grand rally, and then head to the main camel festival venue. You can either hop into a tuk-tuk or taxis easy to get and reach. Don’t forget to click some pictures, create some reels, and also participate in different camel activities. The Beauty Pageant may inspire you too with the traditional Rajasthani outfits and big moustaches!
