National Research Centre on Camel
Unique research facility breeding camels, camel museum, camel rides, and famous camel milk products
Overview
The National Research Centre on Camel (NRCC) is Asia's largest camel research and breeding facility, established in 1984 by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research. Located on the outskirts of Bikaner, this working research station houses over 300 camels and focuses on breeding, nutrition, disease control, and conservation of Indian camel species. What makes it tourist-friendly is the public visiting section where visitors can observe camels up close, learn about different breeds, take camel rides on well-maintained grounds, and most famously, taste camel milk ice cream and chocolates produced on-site. The facility maintains various camel breeds including the prized Bikaneri camels known for strength and endurance. Educational displays explain camel anatomy, lifecycle, economic importance in desert regions, and ongoing research. The evening visit option (4-6 PM) allows visitors to watch feeding time and sunset camel parade. It's an unconventional but fascinating attraction combining education, conservation awareness, and unique experiences.
Highlights
Camel breeding facility with 300+ camels of various breeds
Camel ride on research center grounds
Famous camel milk ice cream tasting
Educational displays on camel biology and conservation
Feeding time observation (4:30-5:30 PM)
Baby camel viewing - adorable young camels
Camel Discovery Experience
Arrival & Orientation
Enter facility, purchase tickets. Orientation area has displays explaining center's research mission, camel breeds, conservation efforts. Read before touring grounds
Camel Enclosures Tour
Walk through different sections housing various camel breeds. See Bikaneri, Jaisalmeri, other Indian varieties. Information boards explain each breed's characteristics, uses
Feeding Time Observation
Watch caretakers feed camels. Learn about camel diet - fodder types, nutritional needs. Great photo opportunities as camels gather for feeding
Camel Ride
Take camel ride around grounds (₹50-100). Well-trained camels with handlers. 15-20 minute ride. Kids especially love this. Photo stops included
Baby Camel Section
Visit nursery area with young camels (calves). Adorable photo opportunities. Learn about camel breeding, lactation periods. Sometimes allowed to pet under supervision
Camel Milk Products
Must-try camel milk ice cream (₹30-50). Unusual taste, nutritious. Also camel milk chocolates, sweets. Small shop sells packaged products to take home
Complete Bikaner Wildlife & Heritage Circuit
Day 1
Gajner Palace & Wildlife Sanctuary
Morning visit to Gajner (32 km from Bikaner). Lake palace, bird sanctuary, wildlife viewing. Nilgai, blackbuck, migratory birds. Beautiful setting
Return to Bikaner
Lunch in city. Rest during afternoon heat. Prepare for evening camel center visit
National Camel Research Centre
Afternoon/evening visit as per main itinerary. Camel breeding, rides, milk products. Educational tour
Sunset at Desert Viewpoint
Short drive to desert edge near Bikaner. Sunset over Thar Desert. Contrast from lakeside Gajner morning. Complete nature day
Day 2
Bird Watching at Jorbeer Conservation Reserve
Early morning birding at conservation area near Camel Centre. Vultures, eagles, other raptors. Carcass dump attracts birds (not for squeamish)
Karni Mata Temple Day Trip
Visit famous Rat Temple in Deshnoke (30 km). Unique cultural-religious experience. Sacred rats, architectural beauty. Return by 1 PM
Rest & Exploration
Afternoon rest. Evening explore Bikaner local markets. Bhujia shops, traditional sweets. Cultural immersion
Return Camel Centre Visit
Second evening visit if desired - try different camel milk products, additional camel interaction. Stock up on souvenirs
Visiting Information
Entry Fee:
Indians ₹20, Foreigners ₹100. Camel ride ₹50-100. Camel milk products sold separately (₹30-100)
Timings:
3:00 PM - 6:00 PM (Public visiting hours). Closed Sundays and public holidays
Recommended Duration:
1.5-2 hours including camel ride and product tasting
Best Time to Visit
October to March. Evening visit (4-6 PM) recommended for feeding time and sunset camel viewing. Avoid midday summer heat
Getting There
From Bikaner city: Jorbeer Road north (8 km, 15-20 minutes). Signboards for "Camel Research Centre"
Public Transport:
Located 8 km north of Bikaner on Jorbeer Road
Travel Tips
- •Visit 4-6 PM only - public hours limited. Plan accordingly. Closed Sundays
- •Camel milk ice cream is MUST TRY - unique flavor, healthy (low fat, high vitamin C). ₹30-50
- •Bring cash - card machines unreliable. Keep ₹500-1000 for tickets, rides, products
- •Kids absolutely love this place - camels, rides, ice cream. Very family-friendly
- •Photography freely allowed - camels accustomed to visitors, great subjects