Pushkar Fair or Pushkar Mela, is one of the most visited fairs in India. The Pushkar Fair, also known as the Pushkar Camel Fair, is an annual livestock and cultural fair held in the town of Pushkar in the state of Rajasthan, India.
It is one of the largest cattle fairs in the world which attracts tourists from every corner of the globe. The fair takes place every year in the Hindu month of Kartik (which falls in October or November).
When is Pushkar Camel fair in 2023?
In 2023, the Pushkar fair will be organized from 20th November till 28 November.
Highlights of the Pushkar Fair
The main attraction of the Pushkar Camel Fair is the trading of camels, horses, and other livestock. It’s an important event for villagers to showcase their livestock especially for the Raika community to sell their camels.
During the camel fair, Pushkar has lots of spectacles such as traditional dance shows, camel races, turban tying competitions, mustache contests, puppet shows, and traditional Rajasthani food stalls, etc..
A brief history of Pushkar Mela :
The origin of the Pushkar Camel Fair dates back several centuries and is related to the holy lake of Pushkar. This fair is deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of rural Rajasthan.
The town is associated with Lord Brahma, the creator in Hindu mythology, and is said to be the place where a lotus flower fell from Lord Brahma’s hands and created the lake, as considered the holiest of the holy in Hindu religion.
The Pushkar mela or fair was said to be started as a means for local communities to come to take a holy dip in the month of Kartik and trade their livestock. The fair provided a platform for camel owners to showcase their animals and find buyers while present for pilgrimage.
The fair also served as a meeting point for the Raika community, where they could exchange knowledge and information related to camel rearing and husbandry.
Over time, the Pushkar Camel Fair grew in size and popularity, attracting not just local traders but also merchants from other parts of Rajasthan and neighboring states we well as the tourist from around the world.
The fair became a significant commercial event where various livestock, including camels, horses, cows, and sheep, were traded.
As the local people from Pushar saw an opportunity during the trade of camels and other livestock and started showcasing folk music and dance performances and traditional art.
Today, It has evolved into a major tourist attraction, offering visitors a unique blend of rural life, livestock trading, and cultural festivities. The fair has become a melting pot of diverse cultures, attracting photographers, artists, travelers, and curious onlookers who come to witness this vibrant and colorful event.
How to reach Pushkar :
By Air: The nearest airport is Jaipur Airport situated about 150km from Pushkar Town. This airport is well connected to the major cities of India and international destinations. One can easily find a taxi from Jaipur airport to reach the town.
By Road: Regular buses are available for Pushkar from all major cities of Rajasthan like Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, and Ajmer.
By Train: The best and most convenient option is Ajmer railway station (code: AII) situated about 12km from Pushkar. This railway station is well connected by rail with important cities and towns in India. Pushkar also has a railway terminus but with limited connectivity with Ajmer only.
What to see in Pushkar during the fair :
Places to Visit:
The holy city of Pushkar is home to many revered and holy shrines. Some of the best places to see in Pushkar are mentioned below:
- Pushkar Lake: Described as ‘Tirth Raj’, the king of all pilgrimage sites. A dip in the sacred Pushkar Lake is considered a must for every Hindu. The lake is surrounded by 52 bathing Ghats and over 400 temples and is a magnificent sight to behold. It is believed that the holy lake was formed after a lotus fell from the hands of Lord Brahma (creator of the universe) onto the ground.
- Brahma Temple: The only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma in the world. The temple is a landmark attraction of Pushkar. Situated close to the Pushkar Lake the temple is built of Marble and stone. The four-headed idol of Lord Brahma is housed in the inner sanctum of the shrine.
- Gurudwara Singh Sabha: Pushkar is a sacred pilgrimage site for the Sikhs as well. The holy Sikh shrines are dedicated to commemorating the visits of the first and the tenth Sikh gurus- Guru Nanak Dev and Guru Gobind Singhji. An old handwritten copy of the Sikh scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib and a hukumnamas believed by Sikhs to have been written by Guru Gobind Singh have also been preserved.
- Varaha Temple: The 12th-century shrine is one of the largest and oldest in the holy city. Constructed by the then King Anaji Chauhan the temple’s main deity is Lord Vishnu an incarnation of wild Boar. The temple is one of the most famous and attracts a large number of travelers and pilgrims alike.
- Savitri Temple: The temple on a hillock behind the Brahma temple is dedicated to the goddess Savitri. The goddess was Lord Brahma’s first wife. The panoramic view of the lake and the landscape from the top cannot be missed.
- Rangji Temple: Rangji Temple is another popular shrine In Pushkar. The shrine is visited by thousands of pilgrims and tourists every year. The temple is dedicated to Lord Rangji an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The architecture in the shrine is a mix of South Indian, Rajput, and Mughal styles.
- Pap Mochini Temple: Devoted to goddess Ekadasi Mata the Pap Mochini temple is a great spiritual center within Pushkar. Architecturally brilliant a visit to the shrine provides respite from all the cardinal sins to devotees.
- Man Mahal: A guest house of Raja Man Singh I erstwhile ruler of Jaipur state. Man Mahal is one of the most remarkable buildings in Pushkar. Known for its magnificent Rajasthani architectural style the building situated at the center of Pushkar city provides glorious views of the lake banks and temple around. The imposing edifice is now a heritage hotel run by the government.
- Atmateshwar temple: This 12th-century shrine with an underground section is dedicated to lord Shiva. The beautiful temple with detailed carvings makes it a magnificent attraction for Pushkar.
Where to stay during the Pushkar fair :
Luxury 5* hotels in Pushkar :
Pushkar offers a range of luxury hotels that cater to the needs of discerning travelers. Here are a few notable luxury hotels in Pushkar:
- The Gateway Resort Pushkar Bypass: This luxury resort by Taj Hotels is located on the outskirts of Pushkar, offering a tranquil and scenic setting. The resort features well-appointed rooms, a swimming pool, spa facilities, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay.
- Ananta Spa & Resorts: Nestled amidst the picturesque Aravalli hills, Ananta Spa & Resorts provides a luxurious retreat in Pushkar. The property offers spacious and elegantly designed rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, a spa offering a range of therapies, multiple dining options, and various recreational facilities.
- Aaram Bagh Pushkar: Situated amidst lush green gardens, Aaram Bagh Pushkar is a luxury boutique hotel that combines traditional Rajasthani architecture with modern comforts. The hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites, an outdoor swimming pool, a spa, an on-site restaurant serving Rajasthani and international cuisine, and a peaceful ambiance.
- Dera Masuda Luxury Resort & Spa: Located near Pushkar Lake, Dera Masuda is a heritage-style luxury resort that provides an authentic Rajasthani experience. The resort features beautifully decorated rooms and suites, an outdoor pool, a spa, a rooftop restaurant offering panoramic views, and personalized services.
- Bhanwar Singh Palace: This opulent palace hotel is situated in the lap of the Aravalli hills, offering a serene and luxurious ambiance. The property boasts spacious rooms and suites adorned with traditional decor, a swimming pool, a spa, multiple dining options, and facilities for organizing cultural performances and events.
Mid-range 3* hotels in Pushkar
If you’re looking for mid-range 3-star hotels in Pushkar, here are some options you can consider:
- Pushkar Bagh Resort: Located near Pushkar Lake, Pushkar Bagh Resort offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities. The resort features a swimming pool, a multi-cuisine restaurant, a garden area, and a range of services to ensure a pleasant stay.
- Hotel Brahma Horizon: Situated close to the Brahma Temple, Hotel Brahma Horizon provides well-appointed rooms with essential amenities. The hotel offers a rooftop restaurant, a garden, and a 24-hour front desk.
- Hotel Master Paradise: Located near the main market area, Hotel Master Paradise offers comfortable rooms and a range of facilities. The hotel features a swimming pool, a rooftop restaurant, a garden, and a travel desk to assist with sightseeing and other arrangements.
- Hotel Pushkar Palace: Overlooking the Pushkar Lake, Hotel Pushkar Palace offers cozy rooms with traditional Rajasthani decor. The hotel provides a rooftop restaurant, a garden, and views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
- Hotel Rising Star: Situated near the Pushkar Bus Stand, Hotel Rising Star offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price. The hotel provides basic amenities, a rooftop restaurant, and a travel desk.
These are just a few examples of 3-star hotels in Pushkar. It’s recommended to check the latest availability, services, and reviews of these hotels, as well as explore other options, to find the one that suits your preferences and budget the best.
Budget hotels in Pushkar:
Looking for affordable accommodation for your stay during the Pushkar camel fair? Look no further! Pushkar is not only known for its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes but also for its wide range of budget hotels that cater to the needs of every traveler. Whether you’re a backpacker on a tight budget or a traveler seeking comfortable yet affordable lodging options, Pushkar has an array of small and cheap hotels that will make your stay memorable without breaking the bank.
- Hotel Everest: Located near the Pushkar Bus Stand, Hotel Everest offers budget rooms with essential amenities. The hotel provides a 24-hour front desk, free Wi-Fi in public areas, and assistance with travel arrangements.
- Hotel Oasis: Situated near the Brahma Temple, Hotel Oasis offers budget accommodation with basic amenities. The hotel features a rooftop restaurant, a garden, and a travel desk to assist with sightseeing and transportation.
- Hotel New Park: Located close to Pushkar Lake, Hotel New Park provides budget rooms and a range of services. The hotel offers a rooftop restaurant, free Wi-Fi in public areas, and a 24-hour front desk.
- Hotel Kanhaia Haveli: Situated near the Pushkar Main Market, Hotel Kanhaia Haveli offers budget-friendly rooms with essential amenities. The hotel features a rooftop restaurant, a terrace, and a travel desk.
- Hotel Kishan Palace: Located near the Pushkar Bus Stand, Hotel Kishan Palace offers budget accommodation with basic facilities. The hotel provides a 24-hour front desk, room service, and assistance with travel arrangements.
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