Pushkar
About Pushkar
The Brahma Temple, Pushkar Lake, and the yearly Pushkar Camel Fair are the main draws of Pushkar, a holy town in Rajasthan, India. It is a Sikh and Hindu pilgrimage site, 10 km northwest of Ajmer. Tourists and pilgrims are drawn to the town by its lively markets, cultural events, and peace. Every year, the Camel Fair features vibrant celebrations and camel commerce. Pushkar is well-liked by tourists interested in Rajasthan's rich cultural heritage as well as spiritual seekers due to its picturesque location surrounded by hills.
History Immersed in Hindu mythology, Pushkar is a sacred pilgrimage site. A legend states that Brahma, the creator, created Pushkar Lake when a lotus fell from his hand. The town's religious importance is demonstrated by the fact that old manuscripts like the Mahabharata mention it. An annual camel fair known as the Kartik Mela has been a longstanding tradition. The religious and cultural significance of Pushkar is closely linked to its historical foundations. One of the few temples devoted to Lord Brahma is the 14th-century Brahma Temple. The town had a significant historical role and was ideally situated along trade routes. Initiated in the late 1800s, the yearly Camel Fair has grown into an international cultural occasion that enhances Pushkar's historical story even more.
Culture With more than 500 shrines, Pushkar is considered one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites. Its temple pays special homage to Lord Brahma. Pushkar's culture, which has its roots in Hinduism, is marked by religious significance due to the Brahma Temple and the holy rites performed at Pushkar Lake. The town is particularly vibrant culturally, especially during the October/November Kartik Mela, a vibrant camel fair. Handicrafts from Rajasthan are abundant in the markets, and traditional dance and music are presented at cultural events. Pushkar's heritage architecture, with its old buildings and elaborate temples, reflects historical influences and its culinary scene offers a variety of Rajasthani flavors. Pushkar's culture is essentially a dynamic fusion of customs, celebrations, and artistic expressions that offer pilgrims and visitors an immersive experience.
Climate In Pushkar, summer temperatures typically range from 25 to 45 degrees Celsius, while winter temperatures typically fall between 8 and 22 degrees Celsius.
How to reach
By road Direct buses connect Pushkar with Ajmer (30 minutes, ₹20), Jaipur (3 hours, ₹220-410), and Udaipur (6 hours, ₹450). Night buses to Delhi are also available (10 hours, ₹400-850). Jaipur Route:
Distance from Jaipur: Approximately 145 kilometers. Route: Take NH48 (Ajmer Road) from Jaipur, then follow Ajmer Bypass Road. Directions: Follow road signs to reach Pushkar.
Ajmer Route: Distance from Ajmer: Just about 15 kilometers. Route: Take NH448 towards Pushkar. Directions: Follow road signs to reach Pushkar.
Delhi Route:
Distance from Delhi: Around 415 kilometers. Route: Take NH48 (Delhi-Jaipur Expressway) from Delhi. Directions: Continue on NH48, follow the Jaipur route directions.
By plane The nearest airport to Pushkar is Sanganer Airport in Jaipur, about 145 kilometers away. Pushkar does not have an airport. Due to its excellent domestic connections, Jaipur Airport is easily accessible from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. On reaching Jaipur, visitors can take local transport or hire a taxi to reach the bus stop or railway station.
By train Trains that go straight to Pushkar are rare due to the town's hilly terrain. Ajmer is the closest train station, with excellent connections to other major cities. To get to Pushkar from Ajmer, tourists can take a bus (₹150-200), an Uber (₹400-600), or a taxi (30 minutes). From Ajmer to Pushkar, the train ride takes about three hours.
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2 days itinerary
Day 1: Explore Spiritual Heritage
- Morning
Visit the Brahma Temple, which is devoted to Lord Brahma, to start your day. Take in the peaceful atmosphere and participate in the morning prayers. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Rajasthani flavors.
- Late Morning:
Go to Pushkar Lake, a holy body of water encircled by ghats. Take a holy dip and become fully enveloped in the atmosphere of spirituality. Explore nearby ghats and witness the rituals performed by pilgrims.
- Afternoon
Have lunch at one of the lakeside restaurants, enjoying scenic views.
See the Savitri Temple, which is atop a hill and provides sweeping views of Pushkar.
- Evening
Take a stroll through the lively markets and purchase traditional Rajasthani items and souvenirs. Visit Pushkar Lake for the evening aarti, a captivating spiritual ritual.
Day 2: Cultural Delights
- Morning:
See the colorful livestock trading and cultural events by visiting the Pushkar Camel Fairground. Enjoy breakfast at a café, soaking in the lively atmosphere.
- Late Morning:
Explore the Old Rangji Temple, known for its unique architectural style. Visit the Varaha Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
- Afternoon
Visit the Pushkar Desert, experience the rustic beauty, and perhaps take a camel ride.
- Evening
Attend a cultural performance showcasing traditional music and dance. Enjoy a peaceful evening by the lake or at a rooftop café.
Get around
Because Pushkar is a small town, you can easily explore it on foot. For those seeking a thorough temple experience, there are spiritual walking tours available. As an alternative, rent motorbikes or bicycles to easily explore the nearby areas.
Things to do
Pushkar Lake: In Hindu mythology, Pushkar Lake, a revered body of water in Pushkar, has great religious significance. The lake is said to have been created by Lord Brahma. Encircled by fifty-two ghats, pilgrims come here for ceremonial bathing, especially during Karthik. A haven of peace and traditional art, the lake is home to the one and only Brahma Temple. On the other hand, avoid slick and algae-covered surfaces. On Kartik Purnima, the semicircular-shaped holy lake is said to provide salvation. It is still the focal point of Pushkar's cultural allure, drawing pilgrims and visitors year-round with its energizing aura and lively activities. Pushkar has 300 temples and 52 ghats.
Temples
- Brahma Temple: The architecture of the temple is breathtaking, with vivid colors and detailed carvings. Perched atop the holy Pushkar Lake, it presents an enchanting panorama. A divine ambiance is created by chants, incense, and spiritual ambiance. This location was chosen by Brahma for his temple when he descended to earth to carry out a yajna.
- Savitri Mata Temple: The Hindu goddess Savitri, wife of Lord Brahma, is worshipped at the hilltop Savitri Mata Mandir in Pushkar, Rajasthan. Situated atop Ratnagiri Hill, it provides an expansive outlook over Pushkar and the lake. This important pilgrimage site rewards the 650-step climb with a stunning view of the sunrise.
- Varaha Temple: The Varaha Temple in Pushkar, Rajasthan, is a Hindu temple devoted to Lord Vishnu's third incarnation. Situated near Pushkar Lake, this temple is among the oldest in Pushkar. The Swayamvyakta Kshetra list of eight prestigious temples where the deity is said to have self-manifested includes the Pushkar Varaha temple as well. October and November, or the month of Kartik, are the ideal times to visit the Varaha Temple.
Hours: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Varaha refers to a wild boar or pig with a tusk. The body of a man and the head of a wild boar were the representations of Lord Varah's idols.
Offbeat places
- Rangji Temple
- Sri Panchkund Shiva Temple
- Pap Mochini Temple
- Aptaeshwar Temple
- Atmeshwar Temple
- Gurudwara Sahib
Do
- camel safari in the desert
- Hot Air Balloon Safari
- Sipping Lassi on a rooftop bar
- Bathe in Pushkar Lake
- Watch the aarti ceremonies at the Brahma Temple
Cultural shows
Pushkar Camel Fair: Cultural events and competitions encompass a variety of activities such as dances, camel races, the "matka phod," the "longest moustache" competition, the tug-of-war between men's and women's teams, and more. Thousands of people attend the fair.
Fairs and festivals
Camel Fair: The Pushkar Camel Fair is a five-day cultural and livestock event that takes place in the Rajasthani town of Pushkar every year in October or November. One of the biggest cattle fairs in the world, it has religious significance, cultural events, and camel trading. The fair is a must-see in Rajasthan since it attracts tourists from all over the world and provides a distinctive fusion of customs.
Shopping
Pushkar is known as one of the greatest places to shop in Northern India. A wide variety of goods are available in Pushkar shops, such as jewelry, clothes, shoes, bags, books, handicrafts, and showpieces.
Shiv Shakti Art & Handicraft, Shiva Textile, Vikas Handicrafts, Collector's Paradise, Pushkar Main Market, and Holy Expo Private Limited are a few of the well-known shopping destinations. In addition to its rich architectural legacy and mythological past, the town is well-known for the Pushkar Rose. Because traditional Rajasthani products are on display in markets like Sarafa Bazaar and Baza Bazaar, shopping becomes an essential part of the cultural experience.
Food
- Malpua with Rabri at Sarvadia's Malpua
- Kalakand at Radhe Radhe Mithai Wala
- Pheni at Moolchand Peda Wala
- Falafel at Honey & Spice
- Tomato and Chana Soup at Prem Pavitra Bhojnalaya
- Pani Puri at Chotu Motu Joshiwad Pani Puriwala
- Parathas at Sankalp Parathas
- Wild Roses Restaurant
- Funky Monkey Cafe
- A Blue Star
- Aroma Royal Pushkar
- Everest Cafe
Drinks
Although it is illegal to carry alcohol inside city limits, a lot of tourist-oriented eateries and lodging facilities are starting to offer it upon request.
While you might think about not drinking in honor of the holy city, it is not appropriate to consume alcohol in public.
Stay safe
Government hospitals
Given its small size, Pushkar might not have a government hospital with that name. Nonetheless, primary care clinics and facilities are probably present. You might have to travel to adjacent towns like Ajmer to receive complete medical care. To obtain the most current and accurate information, inquire about the closest government healthcare facility with Pushkar locals or local authorities in the surrounding areas.
Go next
Udaipur: famed for its gardens, lakes, palaces, forts, temples, and other cultural landmarks
Day trips
Ajmer: Rajasthani city Ajmer is home to the famous landmark Ajmer Sharif Dargah and a thriving cultural heritage, weaving together a rich tapestry of spirituality and history.