National Research Centre on Camel

National Research Centre on Camel

Explore Asia's Ultimate Camel Sanctuary in Bikaner

If you are traveling through Bikaner and want a break from standard forts and palaces, the National Research Centre on Camel (NRCC) offers a truly unique, immersive experience. Known across the globe as Asia’s largest camel breeding and research farm, this vibrant government-managed facility is home to hundreds of camels across diverse desert breeds.

What makes a visit here so memorable isn’t just watching these magnificent “ships of the desert” up close—it is the rare chance to sample incredibly unique dairy delicacies, explore an educational camel museum, and see how these resilient animals are protected.

An Eco-Tourism Hotspot in the Thar Desert

Sprawling across a massive landscape just 10 kilometers outside Bikaner city center, the NRCC acts as a major hub for scientific research, breed preservation, and genetic improvement.

As you wander around the spacious open enclosures during the afternoon, you can witness different Indian camel breeds—including the Bikaneri, the sleek Jaisalmeri, and the sturdy Kachchhi variants. If you are lucky enough to visit during calving season, you will even spot adorable baby and adult camels running around the nursery enclosures!

Top Things to See & Do Inside:

  • Visit the Camel Milk Parlour: This is a crowd favorite! Treat your tastebuds to fresh, highly nutritious camel milk delicacies. You can try rich camel-milk ice cream (available in flavors like chocolate and vanilla), refreshing hot and cold kulfi, premium camel milk tea, and artisanal sweets.

  • Explore the Camel Museum: Dive deep into the history and biology of these desert animals. The small on-site museum displays historical camel leather artifacts, traditional riding saddles, delicate hair art designs, and educational charts highlighting the medicinal benefits of camel milk.

  • Watch the Evening Return Herd: Try to time your visit for the late afternoon. Watching hundreds of camels walk back into their main pens simultaneously as the desert sun begins to dip is an incredible sight and perfect for photography.

  • Shop for Authentic Souvenirs: The local gift shop features unique products made entirely from camel bone, soft wool textiles, and genuine leather goods crafted carefully by local artisans.

Essential Traveler Tips for Your Visit:

  • Timings & Best Hours: The center is open daily from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM. It is highly recommended to visit around 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM, which is when the main herds return from their desert grazing grounds and the milk parlour is fully stocked.

  • Entry Fees: The entry ticket is highly budget-friendly, typically costing around ₹50 for domestic travelers and ₹200 for international tourists. Photography fees are nominal but separate if you plan to bring professional cameras.

  • Beating the Desert Sun: Because the vast enclosures are wide open to the sky, there is very little natural shade. Make sure to wear a wide hat, carry sunglasses, and bring a bottle of water to stay comfortable while walking between the pens.

Scroll to Top