Destination Guide
The Pushkar Fair — known as the Pushkar Mela or Pushkar Camel Fair — is one of the most iconic festivals in all of India. Held annually in the sacred town of Pushkar in Rajasthan, on the banks of the holy Pushkar Lake, this festival is a breathtaking convergence of spirituality, commerce, folk culture, and sheer spectacle. Every year, during the Kartik Purnima (October-November full moon), Pushkar transforms into a carnival of colors, camels, and devotion.
The Pushkar Camel Fair
What began as a cattle and camel trading fair centuries ago has grown into one of the world's largest camel fairs, attracting over 200,000 visitors — both Indian pilgrims and international travelers. The grounds outside Pushkar transform into a vast tent city, with 50,000+ camels, horses, and cattle being brought in by traders from across Rajasthan and Gujarat. The camel decorated competitions, camel races, and the sight of thousands of animals against the Aravalli backdrop is unforgettable.
Brahma Temple — One of India's Rarest
Pushkar is home to the Brahma Temple — one of very few temples in the world dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe. According to mythology, Lord Brahma performed a yajna (fire ritual) at Pushkar, and this temple marks the spot. The temple's red shikhara (spire) is visible from across the town. Devotees believe that a visit to Pushkar is incomplete without darshan at the Brahma Temple and a dip in the Pushkar Lake.
Pushkar Lake — The Sacred Sarovar
Pushkar Lake is considered one of the five sacred lakes in Hindu pilgrimage. Its 52 ghats are lined with temples, and pilgrims come from across India to take a holy dip, especially during Kartik Purnima, when it is believed that all sins are washed away. The sight of dawn breaking over the lake — with priests performing the morning aarti, devotees bathing, and camels silhouetted against the Aravalli hills — is one of the most beautiful in all of India.
Pushkar Fair Highlights
- Camel decoration contest: Camels adorned with colored powder, embroidered blankets, and jingling bells — a visual feast.
- Folk performances: Kalbeliya dancers, fire performers, puppet shows, and folk music fill the evenings.
- Turban-tying competition: Visitors can learn to tie a traditional Rajasthani pagri (turban).
- Moustache competition: Local men with the most magnificent mustaches compete for prizes.
- Hot air balloon rides: For a bird's eye view over the fair and desert landscape.
When and How to Reach Pushkar
The Pushkar Fair typically falls in October or November, during Kartik Purnima. For 2025, check the exact dates based on the lunar calendar. Pushkar is located 11 km from Ajmer. From Jaipur, it is about 145 km (3 hours by road). Nearest railway station is Ajmer Junction, well-connected to major cities. Our Rajasthan Tour includes a visit to Pushkar as part of the Ajmer-Pushkar day — visiting the famous Dargah Sharif in Ajmer and the Brahma Temple in Pushkar.
To visit Pushkar as part of our Rajasthan Tour, call us at +91 7240026380.
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