Pushkar Tourism

Pushkar is one of the oldest cities in India. Located to the northwest of Ajmer, the tranquil city of Pushkar is a favoured destination for thousands of tourists and devotees flocking to Rajasthan. Situated at a height of 510 metres, Pushkar is surrounded by hillocks on three sides. The ‘Nag Pahar’, literally meaning Snake Mountain forms a natural border between Ajmer and Pushkar. Known as ‘the rose garden of Rajasthan’, the essence of the famous Pushkar rose is exported all over the world. Along with an interesting mythological history, a legacy of timeless architectural heritage makes Pushkar a fascinating city.

According to legends, Lord Brahma, believed to be the creator of the Universe dropped a lotus to the ground leading to the immediate creation of a lake. He then decided to name the place after the flower, and thus the name, Pushkar. The city of Pushkar is home to the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma in the whole world. Hindus consider a journey to Pushkar to be the ultimate pilgrimage that must be undertaken to attain salvation.

Pushkar Lake
An artificial lake, famed as a sacred lake for the Hindus, Pushkar Lake is one of the popular tourist places in Rajasthan, around which the main city is built. Popularly known as ‘Tirth-Guru,’ Pushkar Lake has a total of 52 bathing ghats where pilgrims can take baths, especially when Pushkar Fair (October to November) is held around Kartik Poornima and more than 300 temples around it. It was built in the 12th century when a dam was constructed over the Luni River. Guru Govind Singh, the 10th Sikh guru is believed to have recited Guru Granth Sahib on the banks of Pushkar Lake. One of the main tourist spots in Pushkar, the lake attracts around 1,00,000 visitors every month.

Brahma Temple
One of the few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma, the Brahma Temple in Pushkar is a holy site for Hindu pilgrims. It attracts a flock of tourists throughout the year, especially around Kartik Poornima when Pushkar Fair is held. Located on the bank of Pushkar Lake, the temple was constructed in the 14th century, but it is believed to have its foundation around 2,000 years ago. One of the best places to visit in Pushkar, the temple is built on a raised platform. In the gateway of the temple, there is a goose with a red sapphire crown and a four-headed idol of Brahma inside. The temple remains open from 6 AM to 9 PM and three aartis are held during the day.

Man Mahal
Man Mahal, located at the centre of the city, is the largest palace in Pushkar. Popular for its magnificent Rajasthani architecture, Man Mahal is one of the popular tourist attractions in Pushkar. The palace was built by King Man Singh I with the purpose to stay on his trips to Pushkar and for his guests. The place has been converted into a heritage hotel, which is maintained under RTDC (Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation). Capturing the reflections of temples in Pushkar Lake from Man Mahal is one of the top things to do in Pushkar.

Savitri Temple
Pushkar sightseeing tour cannot be completed without visiting Savitri Temple, which is located atop Ratnagiri Hill. The temple has three idols inside, from the left, Goddess Saraswati, Goddess Savitri and Goddess Sharda. One of the most significant temples in the country, where you will find idols of both the wives of Brahma, Savitri and Gayatri. There is a flight of 970 steps to Savitri Temple. People can reach the temple by walking or ropeway.

Pushkar Fair
Popular by many names, such as Kartik Mela or Pushkar Mela or Pushkar Camel Fair, Pushkar Fair is an annual fair held in Pushkar town. The fair happens between October and November, from the first day of Kartik month (as per the Hindu calendar) and ends on the day of Kartik Poornima. The cultural and multi-day livestock (especially camels) festival attracts lakhs of visitors, as well as pilgrims to Pushkar. The trading of animals, camels, horses and cattle and several cultural events happen during the fair. Some of the popular events are the longest moustache competition, bridal competition, Matka phod, dancing competition and such attract more audience from all over the country.