The picturesque Pushkar is set in a valley just about 14 km off Ajmer in the north Indian state of Rajasthan. Surrounded by hills on three sides and sand dunes on the other, Pushkar forms a fascinating location and a befitting backdrop for the annual religious and cattle fair.

Pushkar is among the five dhams or pilgrimages that are held in high esteem by Hindus, the others being Badrinath, Puri, Rameswaram, and Dwarka. It is said that in battle lord Brahma killed the demon Vajra Nabh with a lotus flower, whose petals floated down to earth and landed in three places in and around Pushkar where lakes sprang up. According to legends, Pushkar Lake was surrounded by 500 temples and 52 palaces (several rajas and maharajas maintained palaces here for pilgrimage) at one point.

The Brahma temple is the most important temple here and is, in fact, the only Brahma temple of India. It is interesting to note that Brahma is not worshipped, even though he is one of the Holy Trinity of Hinduism. Brahma, it is said, had descended on earth to perform a Yajna (fire-sacrifice). His wife Savitri was not with him at that time and the Yajna would be incomplete without her.

Therefore, Brahma married a local girl and sat down for the Yajna. Meanwhile Savitri landed on earth and, upon finding this new bride sitting next to Brahma, cursed him that he would never be worshipped anywhere else on earth.

Prime Attractions of Pushkar

» Pushkar Lake (11 km)
The lake, situated on the edge of the desert and surrounded by hills on three sides, is separated from Ajmer by ‘Nag Pahar’ – the snake mountain. On this mountain the Panchkund and the cave of saint Agastya are located. It is believed that Kalidasa, the 4th century Sanskrit poet and playwright, chose the setting for his masterpiece ‘Abhigyana Shakuntalam’ in this forest heritage.

According to legend, the origin of Pushkar dates back to the time when Lord Brahma was on his way in search of a tranquil land to perform a ‘Yagna’. A lotus fell from the hand of the Lord into this valley. A lake sprang up on this spot and was dedicated to him. A Brahma temple located here is a popular place of pilgrimage.

» Pushkar Fair
It is one of the most colourful fairs of India. Lakhs of pilgrims throng the lake during the annual cattle fair. Besides trading of horses, camels, cows and bulls, there are exciting camel-cart races and cultural events. Clothes, household items and leather goods are for sale during the fair. On full moon of Kartik (Nov.) pilgrims take a holy dip in the lake.

» The Brahma Temple
It is the only temple in India dedicated to Lord braham. The temple is marked by a red spire and over the entrance gateway us a beautiful statue carrier of Lord Brahma.

» Man Mahal
Along the banks of the Pushkar Lake is the former residence of Raja Man Singh I of Amer, Man Mahal. Presently it is converted to RTDC Sarovar Tourist Bungalow ensuring convenient accommodation to travelers. Pushkar Palace (Kishangarh House) adjoining it is a heritage hotel.

» Savitri Temple
A temple dedicated to the first wife of Lord Brahma the Savitri temple is located on the hill behind the Brahma Temple which can be reached by a flight of steps. The temple offers a panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding desertscape.

Places to Stay in Pushkar

With the increase in the popularity of Pushkar and the interest shown by the tourists abroad, the place has now many decent accommodation options available. One can chose from a variety of options like budget, mid-range, and luxury accommodations.

Shopping in Pushkar

An array of stalls all along the main bazar are renowed for embroidered fabrics and shoes colourful beads and bangles, brass utensils, belts studded with brass, cloth covers for cammels with mirror work colourful saddles and leather goods beautiful wall hanging and shoulder bags. The prime shopping spots are home circus, Bazar, Sarafa bazar, Malakhera Bazar and kedalganj Bazar.

How to get there

» Air
The nearest airport is Jaipur (145 km), from where one can take flights for Delhi and Mumbai.

» Rail
Ajmer is the nearest railway station from where one can take trains for the major destinations in Rajasthan and other parts of India.

» Road
Pushkar is connected to Ajmer by road, which is around 14 km away. We would provide you all India tourist permit vehicles for the local transportations and also for the intercity drives too.