Introduction

"The history of Rajasthan, in general, and Bikaner, in particular has been inexorably linked with camels. Popularly known as the ‘ship of the desert’, these wondrous animals have always been renowned for their strength, beauty and endurance. In fact, from history books, we get to learn that Ganga Risala, an elite camel corps of the Bikaner army actively took part in both the World Wars, as well as in the Indo-Pak battles. Today, in Bikaner, camels are equally indispensable and are used to pull heavy load, carry food grains and work at wells, among other things.

With such an illustrious linkage that dates back centuries, no wonder then, in the month of January, the whole of Bikaner comes together to celebrate the Camel Festival. The two-day long cultural extravaganza, conducted under the aegis of Department of Tourism, Art & Culture, Rajasthan commences with a procession of bedecked, ornamented and festooned camels against the picturesque backdrop of the Junagarh Fort and heads towards the Polo grounds. It is here that numerous events are held that depict the immense importance and stellar role that camels play in the lives of the residents of Bikaner.

One of the first events is the Pageant where proud owners show off their bedecked camels. Via a competition, the best-decorated camel, the one with the best fur cutting design, haircut, best breed, best milking are decided. A highlight of the first day is the camel dance. The apparent gangly image of the ship of the desert prove to be quite a misleading one, when one observes camels displaying deft footwork and swaying with utter grace at the slightest direction of their trainers. The tinkling of their jewelry and the steady rhythm of the drumbeats provide a perfect accompaniment to their many moves as they regale the audience. As refreshment, the visitors are treated to lip smacking tea and sweets made out of the delicious and thick camel milk.

In the evenings, however, the focus shifts away from the camels. With well-known artists and local folk performers putting up impressive song, dance and music performances, the desert landscape echoes with lilting melodies. Among the many not-to-be-missed highlights are the joyous skirt-swirling dancers and the equally awe-inducing fire dancers.

The second day’s festivities begin with the fiercely contested camel races that are marked by a boisterous crowd egging on their favorites towards the touchline. Dancers, singers and cultural artists again take center stage during the evenings. The two-day long event literally closes with a bang with a grandiose fireworks display that brighten up the skies. "

Special Attributes

A spectacular event organized in January by the Department of Tourism, Art and Culture of Rajasthan that focuses on portraying the importance of camels via races, acrobatics, dances and various competitions.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Autos, Tongas, Private taxis

Enjoyed by

All

Exposure

Carry a cap, sunglasses, sunblock and lots of water. During the cultural events in the evening, carry warm woollens.

Avoidable Season

The Festival is scheduled in January of each year.

Facilities

Basic, prepare accordingly.

Things Not Allowed

Arms and Weapons, Drugs, Alcohol.

Tip

Stay till the end of the event to witness one of the most amazing fireworks displays.

Type of site

Camel Festival