Mukam Bishnoi Village Tour (मुकाम बिश्नोई गांव भ्रमण)
Mukam is the sacred headquarters of the Bishnoi community, located in the Nokha tehsil of Bikaner district. The Bishnois are among the world's earliest environmentalists, following 29 principles laid down by their guru Jambheshwar (Jambhoji) in the 15th century that emphasize non-violence, vegetarianism, and protection of trees and wildlife. Mukam houses the main temple (samadhi) of Guru Jambheshwar and is the site of massive fairs held twice a year on Phalguna Amavasya and Ashwin Amavasya. A village tour reveals the Bishnoi way of life — their coexistence with wildlife (blackbuck, chinkara, and peacocks roam freely), their eco-friendly practices, and their fierce dedication to protecting nature. The famous 1730 Khejarli massacre, where 363 Bishnois sacrificed their lives to protect Khejri trees, is one of the earliest recorded acts of environmental activism.
Timings
Best visited during daylight hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fee
Free entry. Village tour guide fees: Rs 500-800 for a group.
Time Needed
3-4 hours
History
Guru Jambheshwar (1451-1536) founded the Bishnoi sect at Mukam, laying down 29 principles (bish = 20, noi = 9) for righteous living. These included prohibitions against cutting green trees, killing animals, and using opium. The Bishnoi community's martyrdom at Khejarli in 1730, where 363 people gave their lives hugging Khejri trees to prevent them from being cut, is legendary. Mukam remains the spiritual center of the Bishnoi community.
How to Reach
140 km from Bikaner via Nokha (2.5 hours drive). The road passes through Nokha town. Luxury Tour & Travels arranges dedicated Bishnoi village tour packages from Bikaner, including Mukam temple visit and interaction with Bishnoi families.
Distance from city centre: 140 km from Bikaner (2.5 hours drive), closer from Jodhpur side
Tips for Visitors
- Dress modestly and remove shoes before entering the temple
- Ask permission before photographing people or their homes
- The Bishnois are warm and welcoming — interact respectfully
- Visit during Phalguna or Ashwin Amavasya fairs for a cultural spectacle
- Look for blackbuck and chinkara in the surrounding fields — they roam freely here
Nearby Food
Simple vegetarian meals available at community kitchens (bhandara) near the temple, especially during fairs.
Best Time to Visit
October to March. Phalguna Amavasya (February/March) and Ashwin Amavasya (September/October) fairs are the best times.
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