The International Camel Festival is set to return to Bikaner with grandeur and tradition. Held in the heart of Rajasthan, this iconic festival celebrates the camel, often called the “ship of the desert.” Every year, thousands of tourists, photographers, and culture lovers visit Bikaner to witness this vibrant event. From decorated camels to folk performances, the festival offers a complete cultural experience. As a result, it has become one of the most awaited events in the Rajasthan tourism calendar. Finally, the golden sands of Rajasthan are ready to sparkle once again.
International Camel Festival: A Pride of Bikaner and Rajasthan
The International Camel Festival reflects the rich heritage of Bikaner. Camels have always played a vital role in desert life for centuries. Historically, the Bikaner army even featured a famous camel corps known as the Ganga Risala. Therefore, this festival honours their importance in trade, travel, and survival.
Organised by the Rajasthan Tourism Department, the event presents camel beauty contests, camel dances, and parades. Moreover, traditional music and dance performances add colour and energy to the celebrations. Furthermore, it highlights the unique bond between the desert dwellers and their loyal companions. Visitors from across the globe arrive to experience the authentic rural charm of Rajasthan. Consequently, the city of Bikaner transforms into a hub of energy and colour during these three days.
Why the International Camel Festival Attracts Global Tourists
The Bikaner Camel Festival offers a variety of thrilling activities for every traveller. Tourists from India and abroad visit the Bikaner Camel Festival for its authenticity. The festival offers a rare glimpse into desert culture. You can watch camels perform graceful dances to the rhythm of folk music.
Skilled artisans also showcase their talent in camel fur-cutting competitions. They create intricate patterns on the animal’s coat that look like living tapestries. Meanwhile, the air fills with the soulful melodies of Rajasthani folk singers. Traditional dancers perform energetic sets like the Ghoomar and Kalbeliya. Additionally, the famous fire dancers of the Jasnath sect provide a breathtaking finale. They dance on glowing charcoal embers with incredible poise and bravery.
Visitors enjoy local cuisine, handicrafts, and folk art. In addition, the open desert setting creates a magical atmosphere. Because of this, the festival is also popular among travel bloggers and photographers. It strongly boosts Bikaner tourism every year.
Date-wise Schedule of the International Camel Festival
Planning your visit requires a clear understanding of the daily events. The festival spreads across multiple iconic locations, including the Junagarh Fort and Raisar Sand Dunes.
The International Camel Festival will be held from January 9 to January 11 in Bikaner, Rajasthan.
Day 1: Friday, January 9, 2026 – Heritage and Tradition
The festival opens with a grand camel procession. Camels are beautifully decorated. Cultural programs begin in the evening. The festival kicks off with the “Hamari Virasat” Heritage Walk. This procession travels from Laxminath Temple to the stunning Rampuria Haveli. Afterwards, you can enjoy a traditional Bikaneri Food Festival at Jila Udyog Sangh. The afternoon features the “Proud and Pride of Bikaner” pageant at Dhanidhar Ground. Here, contestants compete for titles like Mr Bikana and Miss Marwan. Finally, the evening concludes with a local band competition at the Ravindra Rang Manch open-air theatre.
Day 2: Saturday, January 10, 2026 – Camel Mastery and Folk Nights
This day features camel competitions, camel dances, and traditional folk performances. You can also explore local fairs. The second day focuses heavily on the camels at the National Research Centre on Camels (NRCC). You will witness the highly anticipated Camel Dance, fur-cutting, and camel races. These events showcase the agility and training of the animals. Later in the evening, the action moves to Dr Karni Singh Stadium. A massive “Best of Rajasthan” Folk Night takes place here. Renowned folk artists perform under the stars, creating a magical atmosphere for all attendees.
Day 3: Sunday, January 11, 2026 – Desert Sports and Fire Dance
The final day hosts award ceremonies and special cultural shows. The festival concludes with vibrant performances under the desert sky. The final day takes you to the serene Raisar Sand Dunes for rural sports. You can watch or participate in tug-of-war, wrestling, and kabaddi matches. There is even a special turban-tying competition for foreign tourists. As the sun sets over the desert, the dunes host a spectacular Cultural Folk Night. This includes the legendary Fire Dance and a celebrity musical performance. The festival ends with a brilliant display of fireworks lighting up the desert sky.
Each day offers something unique. Therefore, visitors are advised to attend all three days.
International Camel Festival Events You Should Not Miss
Several events make the International Camel Festival truly special. Camel races and beauty contests are major attractions. Similarly, folk dances like Kalbelia and Ghoomar captivate audiences. Fire dance performances create unforgettable moments at night. Meanwhile, local markets sell traditional Rajasthani items. These experiences make the festival one of the most famous camel fairs in Rajasthan.
Attending the International Camel Festival is the perfect reason to explore more of Bikaner. You should visit the majestic Junagarh Fort to see its intricate stone carvings. Similarly, the Karni Mata Temple in Deshnoke is a fascinating stop for its thousands of sacred rats. Do not forget to try the local delicacies like Bikaneri Bhujia and camel milk lassi. Most festival events are free to the public, making it an accessible cultural retreat. Moreover, the weather in January is pleasantly cool, which is ideal for desert exploration. You will leave with unforgettable memories of the vibrant colours and warm hospitality of Rajasthan.
International Camel Festival and Its Impact on the Local Economy
The International Camel Festival plays a key role in supporting local communities. Hotels, transport services, and local shops see increased business. Artisans and performers also gain national and international exposure. As a result, the festival helps preserve traditional art forms. It also strengthens the cultural identity of Bikaner.
How to Reach Bikaner for the International Camel Festival
Bikaner is well connected by air, rail and road. The nearest airport is in Nal. From there, tourists can easily reach the city. During the International Camel Festival, special travel arrangements are often available. Therefore, planning ensures a smooth visit.
By Air: Fast and Convenient
While Bikaner has its own domestic airport, many travellers also use nearby major hubs for more flight options.
- Bikaner Airport (Nal Airport – BKB) is situated only 13 km from the city centre and offers direct IndiGo flights from New Delhi, taking about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Jodhpur International Airport (JDH), located approximately 250 km away, serves as a key hub with flights to Mumbai, Delhi, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. Moreover, it offers options for a taxi or a 4.5-hour bus/train journey to Bikaner.
- Jaipur International Airport (JAI), located approximately 330 km away, provides the most frequent domestic and international flights. Thus making it a popular arrival point for tourists heading to Bikaner, which is a scenic 5-6 hour drive away.
By Rail: The Heart of Desert Travel
Bikaner serves as a key railway hub in Rajasthan. Thus ensuring easy access from various parts of India through its two primary stations: Bikaner Junction (BKN) and Lalgarh Junction (LGH).
| Route | Popular Trains | Approx. Duration |
| Delhi to Bikaner | Vande Bharat Express, Bikaner Duronto, Intercity Exp | 6h 20m – 8h |
| Jaipur to Bikaner | Leelan Express, Bikaner Intercity | 5h – 6h |
| Jodhpur to Bikaner | Jodhpur-Bikaner Express | 4h 30m |
| Mumbai to Bikaner | Bikaner Express (from Bandra/Dadar) | 18h – 20h |
Pro Tip: For a swift trip from the capital, book the Vande Bharat Express departing from Delhi Cantt, reaching Bikaner in just over 6 hours.
By Road: Scenic Desert Routes
Bikaner is accessible via well-maintained National Highways, including NH 11, NH 15, and NH 89.
1 Buses:
The Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) provides regular AC, Goldline, and sleeper bus services from Jaipur, Jodhpur, Delhi, and Ajmer. Private Volvo operators also offer frequent overnight routes.
2 Self-Drive/Taxi:
- From Jaipur: 335 km (approx. 5.5 hours) via Sikar.
- From Jodhpur: 250 km (approx. 4.5 hours) via Nagaur.
- From Delhi: 450 km (approx. 8-9 hours) via Rohtak and Hisar.
Once you arrive in the city, getting to the festival venues (like the National Research Centre on Camel or the Dr Karni Singh Stadium) is simple. You can easily get an auto-rikshaw or e-rikshaw. Because these are affordable and popular options for exploring the old city’s narrow streets and accessing the festival grounds. Although you can call a taxi/cab. Certainly, for a more convenient journey to the remote dunes at Raisar, you can use app-based cabs or find local taxi stands. But most of the travellers love walking. The heritage areas and local markets are best explored on foot to soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions About the International Camel Festival
What is the International Camel Festival?
It is a cultural festival held in Bikaner that celebrates camels and Rajasthani traditions.
When is the International Camel Festival held?
It takes place from January 9 to January 11 every year.
Where is the International Camel Festival organised?
The festival is organised in Bikaner, Rajasthan.
Is the International Camel Festival suitable for tourists?
Yes. It is one of the top tourist festivals in Rajasthan.
Conclusion
The International Camel Festival is more than an event. It is a celebration of desert life, tradition, and culture. With its colourful camels, lively performances, and festive spirit, the festival offers a unique experience. Therefore, visitors looking to explore Rajasthan’s heritage should not miss this grand celebration in Bikaner.