Want a blend of divinity and hipster culture? Head to Pushkar!
One of the oldest cities in India, Pushkar in Rajasthan’s Ajmer, can enchant anyone having a taste for a divine and mythical expedition. Located 15km away from Ajmer, Pushkar’s serene landscape is surmounted by hillocks on three sides. Nestled in the centre of this valley is the famous Pushkar Lake which stands as a testament to the mythologically alluring tales that have cemented the foundation of the city. Besides its mythicism, the city is basking in the glory of its traditional fairs and festivals like the annual Camel Fair that attracts over 2 lakh visitors during the autumn season. The fair not only revives the vibrant livestock scene of the city for the traders but also boosts the cultural and economic landscape as we see the whole city hustling and bustling with the vibrancy of the fair. So be it a casual stroll to a tea stall that serves piping hot Iranian tea, a cohort of hymn chanters near a temple or fancy-dressed vagabonds exuding avatars of gods and goddesses, this city can amaze anyone with its lively character.
Divinity of Pushkar
One of the major attractions in Pushkar for the devouts is the sacred Pushkar Lake that is surrounded by over 400 temples and 52 ghats. As per mythology, this captivating lake was created when Lord Brahma, revered as the creator of the world in Hindu mythology, dropped a Lotus flower leading up to its creation that today stands at 8-10 metre in depth. As much holy as the tales are about this lake, this canyon of holy water is perceived as Tirtha Raj aka the king of the pilgrimage owing to the lakes divine powers. Young or old, one can find devotees with priests taking an early morning bath in the lake and seeking blessings for good health and annulment from sins. The lake offers panoramic views of dawn and dusk with its tranquil waters glimmering under soft sunrays. One can see vignettes of how rustic city life is prospering around the banks of the lake with temples, tea stalls, narrow lanes, roadside food joints, rooftop cafes mushrooming around. As the sun sets, the mesmerising euphony of sacred hymns will entrance one and transport to a realm of ecstasy.
One of the major attractions in Pushkar for the devouts is the sacred Pushkar Lake that is surrounded by over 400 temples and 52 ghats.
If you wish to head to a heritage walk and explore the temples of Pushkar, then visit the Brahma Temple, which is the only temple in India dedicated to the lord of creation. Located beyond the Nagaparvat and Anasagar lake, this temple is said to be 2000 years old. The myth goes like Lord Brahma came down here at this spot to perform a Yagya and since then the site has been revered by devotees. Built with marble and stones and adorned with coins, this temple is a must go for devouts. Some of the other pilgrim places include the Rangji Temple, dedicated to Lord Rangji which was seen as an incarnation of God Vishnu, as per Hindu faith. One can see a confluence of Mughal, Rajput and South Indian style in the architectural marvels of this temple. Some of the other divine spots in Pushkar include the 12th century Varaha temple dedicated to the third incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Savitri Temple dedicated to Lord Brahmas wife goddess Savitri, Panchund Shiv temple and Pap Mochini temple.
The annual Pushkar Fair lights up the whole city with its electrifying giant wheels, fair rides and edgy bike stunts that one watches in fidgety.
For the wanderers
If you have been to Pushkar during the weeklong annual Camel Fair held between October to November, then you have reached at the most enthralling time. This fair not only places Pushkar on the world map but also immerses one in the exhilarating state-sponsored activities like Camel races, entertaining beauty contests for livestock, acrobatics, music concerts, dance shows and camel rides held during. In the night, the annual Pushkar Fair lights up the whole city with its electrifying giant wheels, fair rides and edgy bike stunts that one watches in fidgety. Those who wish to explore the culture of Pushkar can be beguiled by the ethnic showrooms, luxe emporiums and streetwear shops in Sadar Bazaar selling handcrafted products like jute bags, leather belts and footwear. These colourful markets will surely revive the hippy shopaholic in you! One can also hop on to roof-top cafes that offer picture-perfect lakeside views of the lively city against the backdrop of the sunset. In contrast, street lovers can have scrumptious street food like Malpuas, Kachoris and Samosas on roadside stalls for a lip-smacking experience.
If you are aiming to pack your bags and revel in the rustic holy city of Pushkar, then October-November is the best suited time.
How to Reach
If you are aiming to pack your bags and revel in the rustic holy city of Pushkar, then October-November is the best suited time. The weather is mildly cool and one can enjoy the spirited Camel Fair! The nearest airport to Pushkar is Jaipur airport which is over 150km away from the city so you have to board a cab afterwards to reach Pushkar. The city is also connected to bus routes where deluxe and semi-deluxe buses can be boarded till Ajmer from where Pushkar is just 15 km. away.
