Horse Carriage (Tonga) Tour In The Old City Of Bikaner

Bikaner , India

Horse Carriage (Tonga) Tour In The Old City Of Bikaner

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About this experience

Located in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan, the walled city of Bikaner was the capital of the princely State of Bikaner. A wealthy merchant class built lavish havelis (mansions) with elaborately designed ornamental facades. Today over 400 of these mansions can be seen in Bikaner. Take a tour of the old city of Bikaner in a tonga (horse-drawn carriage) and see some of these heritage mansions. Also visit a 15th century Jain temple.

Highlights:
• Ride on a horse drawn carriage
• Beautiful facades of the Havelis of Bikaner
• Visit to Rampuria Haveli
• Visit to a 15th century Jain Temple

Available options

1-8 Travelers

Pickup included

What's included

02 bottles of mineral water per person

Jain Temple donation cum entrance fee

Local English speaking guide

Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle

Horse carriage tour (tonga ride)

Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

You will be picked up from your hotel and driven to Fort Junagarh where you will board a tonga for a tour through the narrow lanes of the old city.

The tour will take you past the richly carved facades of old mansions with large courtyards. The mansions are made of red sandstone and are designed in a mixture of Rajput and Mughal styles of architecture. The projecting balconies and the delicate lattice-work in stone are a sight to behold.

Stop 2

Rampuria Haveli is the most beautiful mansion in Bikaner. Called the ‘Pride of Bikaner’ by the writer and philosopher Aldous Huxley it stands out for its grandeur, antiquity and exquisiteness. Constructed in the 15th century for a wealthy merchant of the area, this mansion made of red sandstone has an equally tasteful and well-appointed interior. The stone lattice work of the jharokhas (covered balconies) is a mesmerizing sight from the street below. The interiors have a seamless blend of Mughal era carvings to Victorian art forms.

Dholha Haveli (ride past)

Stop for a photo in front of the old Dholha Haveli. Continue your tour passing through colorful bazaars and watch the locals go about their chores.

Jain Temple (30 minutes)

The tour also includes a visit to the 15th century Jain Temple. The temple is decorated with rich mirror work, frescoes and gold leaf paintings. According to legend, 88 000 pounds of clarified butter was used instead of water to prepare the mortar for the foundation of the temple. Locals insist that the butter leaks through the walls of the temple on hot days. The temple is made of red sandstone and has beautiful paintings and yellow stone carvings on its walls. Visitors can climb up to the third floor of the temple for some panoramic views of the city of Bikaner.

Once your tour will be finished you will be driven back to fixed point / your hotel.

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified

Gratuities (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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1 reviews

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Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Confirmation will be received at time of booking.

A moderate amount of walking is involved.

The tour is not available during summers between 01 Apr - 30 Sep.

About Bikaner

Bikaner, a historic city in the heart of the Thar Desert, is famous for its majestic forts, vibrant culture, and the Bikaner Camel Festival. Known as 'Camel Country,' it offers a unique blend of Rajasthani heritage and desert landscapes, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Junction Fort (Junagarh Fort)

A magnificent fort built in 1593 by Raja Rai Singh, featuring intricate carvings, courtyards, and palaces. It's a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours INR 50 (Indian), INR 300 (Foreigners)

Laxmi Niwas Palace

A stunning palace built in 1902, showcasing a blend of Rajput, Mughal, and European architectural styles. It's now a heritage hotel.

Architecture 1-2 hours INR 100 (Indian), INR 500 (Foreigners)

National Research Centre on Camel

A unique research center dedicated to the study and conservation of camels. Visitors can learn about camel breeding, milk products, and more.

Cultural/Educational 1-2 hours INR 50 (Indian), INR 300 (Foreigners)

Karni Mata Temple (Deshnoke Temple)

A unique temple dedicated to Karni Mata, where thousands of rats are revered and considered sacred. The temple is famous for its rat population and spiritual significance.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (Donations welcome)

Rampuria Havelis

A collection of beautifully adorned mansions built by the wealthy Rampuria family, showcasing exquisite Rajasthani architecture and intricate frescoes.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free (Donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Dal Baati Churma

A traditional Rajasthani dish consisting of lentils, baked wheat balls, and sweet crumbled wheat. A must-try for any visitor.

Main Course Vegetarian

Kachori

A deep-fried pastry filled with spiced lentils or onions, often served with chutney or curd.

Snack Vegetarian

Ghewar

A sweet, disc-shaped dessert made from flour, ghee, and sugar, often soaked in sugar syrup.

Dessert Vegetarian

Laal Maas

A spicy meat curry made with red chilies and ghee, traditionally prepared with goat or lamb.

Main Course Non-vegetarian

Popular Activities

Camel rides Desert safaris Trekking Spa treatments Heritage stays Boating Fort visits Temple tours

Best Time to Visit

October to March

This is the best time to visit Bikaner due to pleasant weather conditions, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Hindi
Widely spoken: Rajasthani, English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Bikaner is generally safe for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis and agree on fares before starting the journey.
• Keep valuables secure and be cautious in crowded areas.
• Beware of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.

Getting there

By air

Bikaner Airport • 13 km from city center

By train

Bikaner Junction

By bus

Bikaner Bus Stand, Bikaner Private Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and widely used, city buses connect major areas within Bikaner.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Ola

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Junagarh Area Old City New City

Day trips

Deshnoke

30 km • Half day

Home to the famous Karni Mata Temple, where thousands of sacred rats reside. A unique and spiritual experience.

Kolayat

50 km • Full day

A sacred site with a temple dedicated to Kapil Muni, a revered sage. The Kolayat Lake is also a popular spot for picnics and boating.

Gajner

32 km • Half day

A scenic lake surrounded by sand dunes, featuring the Gajner Palace and wildlife sanctuary. Ideal for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.

Festivals

Bikaner Camel Festival • January (dates vary) Kartik Purnima Fair • November (full moon night of Kartik month)

Pro tips

Visit Junagarh Fort early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
Try Bikaneri Bhujia and Ghewar, the city's famous sweets and snacks.
Hire a local guide for a more detailed understanding of Bikaner's history and culture.
Carry water and sun protection, especially when exploring outdoor attractions.
Respect local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting religious sites.