Meet the Ship of Desert at the International Camel Festival of Bikaner

The Camel Fair of Bikaner is a historical legacy that is being carried forward by the people of Bikaner. The Department of Tourism – Art, and Culture of Bikaner organizes this annual event which happens in January – honoring the most important animal and ship of the desert – the camel.

The Ride into the Past

This fair is dedicated to the tough animals of Rajasthan which have been the only source of transportation since ages. These animals adapt well to the harsh desert climate. Camels have a long relationship with the state of Rajasthan, specifically Bikaneras it is the only camel breeding region. The founder of the Bikanercity - Rao Bika (1439-1504), is home to largest population of camels.

The locals raise this gentle beast, and the camels even get selected in the Indian army. The camel troops, referred to as "Ganga Risala," have served in various world wars including the Indo-Pak wars. Indian army still retains the age-old regiment of the camel troops and service the Indian border loyally as the Border Security Force.

The Festive Celebration

The Camel Festival in Bikaner will take place on the 12th and 13^thJanuary in 2019. These two days are an enthralling sight to see, with beautifully dressed up camels parade the grounds right behind the majestic Junagarh Fort. The camels adorn vibrant bridles, traditional jewelry like necklaces and anklets and velvet attire on the back. They display wonderful footwork to the mystical Rajasthani tunes. The event entertains the visitors with camel races, camel games, and other cultural performances.

The festival is organized primarily to dignifyand respect this amazingly strong animal, but the entertainment quotient for visitors mainly comes from traditional Rajasthani folk dance performances and music. The event also includes the famous Fire Dance where the fire dancers perform brilliant acts, increasing the excitement levels. The incredibly talented folk singers sing to the audience some mesmerizing and melodies folk songs sending everyone hearing it into a trance. Other events in this fair include the famous puppet shows with the puppeteers narrating intriguing local folk tales. The festival ends with a spectacular display of firework that illuminates the night sky of Bikaner.

Forts, Palaces and People

The historical heritage like the Junagarh Fort and Narendra Bhawan Bikaner are a masterpiece of architecture. Junagarh Fort is a symbol of invincibility and was initially called "Chintamani Mahal" until the 20th century. It was named Junagarh which means "Old Fort" in the early 20th century when the royal family shifted to Lalgarh Palace.

Narendra Bhawan is the palace of Maharaja of Bikaner, His Highness Narendra Singhji. It is also the most beautiful palace hotel in Bikaner. If you like living in style and experience royalty, then Narendra Bhawan is one of the best places to stay in Bikaner.

The Bikaner Camel Fair is more than just a fair; it is a celebration of life. So while you have time, book your tickets to this unique gala event in January 2019. And what better way to spend your holiday by staying in the most lavish Rajasthan palace hotel like Narendra Bhawan.