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Getting Around Bikaner

Getting Around Bikaner

Bikaner Rajasthan, India Travel Guide

Taxis & Ride-Sharing Services

Taxis and auto-rickshaws remain the most convenient and common ways for tourists to get around Bikaner. Licensed taxis are available, identifiable according to their yellow-and-black or white colors. You can book them through your hotel or find them at designated stands. Auto-rickshaws, these three-wheeled vehicles, are the most common and accessible mode of local transport.

Typical auto-rickshaw fares range from ₹50-₹200 for most city rides. Taxi city rides generally cost ₹200-₹500. Hiring a taxi for a full day costs approximately ₹1500-₹3000. Payment must be almost exclusively in cash. While popular in larger Indian cities, the presence and reliability of app-based ride services like Ola and Uber in Bikaner are limited. Safety considerations for taxis and auto-rickshaws include choosing well-maintained vehicles and steering clear of unlit locations in the evening.

Taxi & Auto-Rickshaw Facts

  • Negotiate taxi and auto-rickshaw fares before starting your journey.
  • Payment is almost exclusively inside Indian Rupees cash.
  • Note the car's license plate and share with a trusted person for safety.
  • For safety, especially for female solo travelers, consider pre-booking taxis via reputable hotels.

Fair Negotiation

Always agree on the fare for taxis and auto-rickshaws before commencing your ride.

Cash Payments

Have small denominations of Indian Rupees ready for payments, especially for auto-rickshaws.

Airport/Station Taxis

Taxis and auto-rickshaws are available outside Bikaner Civil Airport, train terminal, and bus stand.

Rental Options for Independent Travel

Car Rental with Driver
  • Highly recommended for tourists, offering comfort and local expertise.
  • Local tour operators and hotels can arrange private automobiles with experienced drivers.
  • Costs vary based on vehicle type, duration, and distance.
Self-Drive & Two-Wheeler Rentals
  • Self-drive rentals are less common owing to tough Indian conditions for driving.
  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals are for experienced riders knowledgeable about Indian traffic.
  • Bikaner lacks formal bicycle sharing, but some hotels offer rentals for local exploration.

Driving Laws & Specialty Vehicles

Driving Side

India drives on the left side of the road.

Road Conditions

Differ from well-maintained highways to congested city roads.

Camel Carts

Offer one-of-a-kind desert experiences and concise rides.

Parking

Available at attractions, but chaotic in busy market areas.

Walking & Cycling in Bikaner

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • The Old City and zones surrounding Junagarh Fort are best explored on foot.
  • Kote Gate and market areas invite strolling for making purchases and local atmosphere.
  • Ganga Singh Park offers pleasant, leisurely strolls away from traffic.
  • Consider local walking tours for historical context and insights.

Cycling & Safety

  • Bikaner has limited dedicated bicycle infrastructure.
  • Cycling on main roads can pose hazards owing to important traffic.
  • Avoid major highways and extremely congested main roads as a cyclist or pedestrian.
  • Stick to quieter side streets or designated paths within parks if you are cycling.

Accessibility Services

  • Accessibility infrastructure in Bikaner is limited.
  • Public transport, older attractions, and sidewalks that are not level pose challenges.
  • Newer hotels may offer better accessibility with ramps and elevators.
  • Hiring a private car with a driver gives the most adaptable and comfortable option.
  • This allows for door-to-door service and personalized routes.
  • Always confirm specific accessibility with venues beforehand.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

No hop-on-hop-off services. Local operators offer day tours by bus or mini-van.

Water Transport

Not applicable for Bikaner, as it is a landlocked desert city.

Unique Systems

No cable cars or funiculars. Auto-rickshaws are the most distinctive local transport.

Public Transportation in Bikaner

Bikaner''s mass transit system caters mainly to local residents. Tourists usually discover other possibilities more down-to-earth for sightseeing.

Bus System Overview

  • Bikaner has no metro or tram system; the local city the bus is the main public transit.
  • Bus routes connect multiple neighborhoods, but are mostly for locals.
  • Comprehensive route maps in English are not readily available.
  • Tickets are bought directly from the conductor with cash; fares are low-cost.

Operational Details & Accessibility

  • Buses operate from approximately SIX AM until approximately 9 PM.
  • Frequency varies, with busier routes and peak hours seeing more service.
  • Public buses are generally not wheelchair accessible due to older models and high steps.
  • Expect potential language barriers if inquiring about routes at the bus stop.

Navigating Public Transport Efficiently

Prefer Auto-rickshaws

For local sightseeing, auto-rickshaws or private taxis are more functional and efficient.

Door-to-home service.

Confirm Routes

If using local buses, confirm routes with hotel staff or bus stop officials.

Avoid confusion.

Small Change

Have small change ready for bus fares, as conductors may not always have it.

Smooth transactions.

Walking & Cycling in Bikaner

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas
  • The Old City and zones surrounding Junagarh Fort are best explored on foot.
  • Walking tours of the Old City can be found with local guides.
  • Ganga Singh Park has pleasant, leisurely strolls.
Cycling & Safety Concerns
  • Limited dedicated bicycle infrastructure; cycling on main roads can be hazardous.
  • Avoid major highways and congested main roads as a pedestrian or cyclist.
  • Stick to peacefuler side streets or designated paths within parks.

Specialized Transportation & Accessibility

  • No formal hop-on-hop-off services; local operators offer day tours.
  • Boat taxis or water transportation are not applicable in landlocked Bikaner.
  • Bikaner lacks cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems.
  • Accessibility infrastructure for travelers with mobility needs is limited.
  • Public transport, older attractions, and uneven sidewalks pose challenges.
  • Hiring a private car with a driver offers with the most flexibility and comfortable option.
  • More recent hotels and modern establishments may offer better accessibility.
  • Always confirm accessibility with specific venues beforehand.

Tips for Smooth City Travel

A bit of preparation goes a long way in navigating Bikaner's local transport scene efficiently.

Practical Auto-Rickshaw Use

  • Always agree on the fare with the driver before beginning your ride.
  • Carry a small card with your hotel's name and address in Speaking english and Hindi.
  • Have small rupee notes available for easy payment and tips.
  • Share the vehicle's license plate number with a trusted contact for added security.

Navigating Public Buses

  • For sightseeing, auto-rickshaws are often more direct and time-efficient than local buses.
  • Confirm your route with hotel staff or local guides if you opt for public buses.
  • Expect a crowded experience, particularly during rush hour.
  • A basic understanding of Hindi phrases aids in communication.

Self-Drive & Two-Wheeler Advice

Consider a Driver

Driving in India can be chaotic; a private car with a driver eliminates stress.

  • Local drivers are knowledgeable about roads.
  • Reduces navigation burden.
  • Enhances safety.
Two-Wheeler Caution

Motorcycle/scooter rentals are only for experienced riders knowledgeable about traffic in the town.

  • Traffic may be assertive.
  • Road conditions vary.
  • Personal protective equipment (ppe) is negligible.
Parking Challenges

Parking can be difficult in busy city areas; plan ahead for attractions.

  • Major attractions feature designated parking.
  • Hotels often offer parking.
  • Avoid illegal parking.

Important Safety Reminders

General Precautions
  • Be aware of surroundings in crowded areas to avoid pickpocketing.
  • Politly decline persistent sales pitches or potential scams.
  • Avoid isolated areas, especially after dark.
Road Travel Safety
  • Road accidents happen; choose cautious, well-rested drivers.
  • Night driving on highways is not recommended due to poor lighting.
  • Watch for animals on the roads, common in rural plus metropolitan areas.

Maximizing Your Bikaner Experience

Embrace the local culture, stay open to novel experiences, and follow these pointers for a truly memorable journey in Bikaner.

Cultural Immersion

  • Engage with locals; they are often friendly and open to share insights.
  • Try local cuisine beyond tourist restaurants for genuine tastes.
  • Participate in local festivals or events if your visit aligns.
  • Visit smaller temples or havelis off the main tourist circuit.

Desert Adventures

  • Book a camel safari into the Thar Desert for a lasting impression.
  • Consider an overnight desert camp to experience the starry desert sky.
  • Visit the National Research Centre on Camel for a look into these animals.
  • Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting or stargazing.

Historical Exploration

Dedicate ample time for discovery Junagarh Fort and its detailed palaces.

Unique Cultural Sites

Visit the Karni Mata Temple in Deshnok for a fascinating cultural encounter.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

Wander through the Old City's narrow lanes to find hidden havelis and local life.

Photography Opportunities

Capturing Landscapes
  • Sunrise and sunset over the dunes of sand have gorgeous photographic moments.
  • The colors of local markets and traditional attire provide excellent subjects.
  • The intricate architecture of Junagarh Fort and old havelis makes for striking images.
People & Festivals
  • Seek permission before photographing people, a gesture of respect.
  • The Bikaner Camel Festival is a event having lots of photo opportunities.
  • Capture the daily life scenes, from chai wallahs to local craftspeople.

Final Thoughts for Your Journey

Bikaner awaits with its rich history, culture, and one-of-a-kind desert charm. Approach your trip with an open mind, respect for local customs, and a spirit of adventure.

Your journey to this desert jewel promises to be an experience filled with exploration and unforgettable memories.

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Getting Around Bikaner. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental