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BIKANER - stands on the northern tip of the desert triangle. Rao Jodha's eldest son Rao Bika set out of his father's kingdom to conquer a separate kingdom for himself. By 1587 Junagarh Fort had begun and the city of Bikaner had come into being. A major centre of trade in the 16th century on the ancient silk route. Junagadh Fort built around 1587 to protect 37 palaces, temples and pavilions within, the fort is one of its kind. Today Junagadh houses a museum of valuable miniature paintings and other rare items that are several centuries old. Lalgarh Palace-the imposing red sandstone monument is a successful blend of oriental facade, designed by Sir Swinton Jacob for Maharaja Ganga Singh. The 14th century Jain temples of Bhandeshwar and Sandeshwar; and their gold leaf paintins are noteworthy.

Deshnoke, a temple dedicated to Goddess Karni Mata. Legend goes that she foretold the victory and success of Rao Bika and the prophecy came true. Today along with her, thousands of rats are revered here. This strange mode of worship owes to the belief that the souls of her devotees are housed in these rats and consequently they must be protected and fed.