Pushkar!
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Population
20,000
Best Time
October to March
Time Needed
2-3 days minimum
Currency
Rupee (₹)
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Pushkar is a small town in Rajasthan, India, known for its sacred lake and the Brahma Temple, one of the few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma in the world. The town is also famous for the annual Pushkar Camel Fair, a vibrant spectacle of trade and culture.
Pushkar offers a unique blend of spiritual significance and vibrant culture, attracting both pilgrims and backpackers. While the town can be crowded and touristy, especially during the Camel Fair, its laid-back atmosphere and stunning desert landscapes make it a worthwhile visit. Be prepared for persistent vendors and occasional scams.
Ideally, spend 2-3 days in Pushkar to explore the temples, lake, and surrounding areas. You can reach Pushkar by train to Ajmer and then a short bus or taxi ride. The best time to visit is between October and March for pleasant weather.
October to March
22-30 degrees C
The weather is pleasant and dry during this time, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Days are sunny and warm, while nights are cool.
Why Visit:
This is the best time to experience the Pushkar Camel Fair (usually in November), a major cultural event. The weather is perfect for exploring the desert landscape and visiting the temples. It's also a great time for photography.
Tip: Expect higher prices and larger crowds, especially during the Camel Fair. Book accommodation and transportation well in advance.
July to September
30-35 degrees C
Monsoon season brings occasional rainfall, which can make the landscape lush and green. Humidity is high.
Why Visit:
The landscape is greener, and the crowds are thinner compared to the peak season. You might find better deals on accommodation. However, some activities might be affected by the rain.
Tip: Be prepared for occasional showers and high humidity. Some smaller shops and restaurants might be closed.
April to June
35-45 degrees C
The weather is extremely hot and dry, making it uncomfortable to explore during the day. The desert heat can be intense.
Why Avoid:
The scorching heat makes it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities or visit the temples. The lake may be partially dried up. It is generally not a pleasant time to visit.
Note: If you must visit during this time, stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and avoid being outdoors during the hottest part of the day. Prices may be lower, but comfort will be compromised.
Brahma Temple
The Brahma Temple is one of the few temples in the world dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator in the Hindu trinity. It's a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus.
The temple features a distinctive red spire and a serene atmosphere. Expect to remove your shoes before entering and witness devotees offering prayers. Photography is generally allowed inside.
The temple is relatively small, but its spiritual significance is immense. Be respectful of the religious customs and traditions.
Hours: 06:30-13:30, 15:00-21:00 daily
Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
Getting There: Located in the heart of Pushkar, easily accessible by walking or auto-rickshaw.
Honest Take: Worth visiting for its unique religious significance.
💡 Insider Tip:
Dress modestly and be prepared for persistent flower vendors outside the temple.
Pushkar Lake
Pushkar Lake is a sacred lake believed to have been created by Lord Brahma. It is surrounded by 52 ghats (bathing steps), each with its own significance.
Take a walk around the lake, observe the religious rituals, and enjoy the serene atmosphere. You can also participate in a puja (prayer ceremony) on the ghats. Beware of priests asking for donations.
The lake is considered holy, so maintain cleanliness and respect. Avoid swimming or washing clothes in the lake.
Hours: Open 24 hours
Best Time: Sunrise or sunset for beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Getting There: Central location, easily accessible on foot.
Honest Take: A must-visit for its spiritual significance and scenic beauty.
💡 Insider Tip:
Be cautious of priests on the ghats who may try to pressure you into donating large sums of money.
Savitri Temple
The Savitri Temple is dedicated to Goddess Savitri, the first wife of Lord Brahma. It's located on top of Ratnagiri Hill, offering stunning views of Pushkar Lake and the surrounding landscape.
Hike up the hill (about an hour) or take the ropeway for a quicker ascent. The temple offers a peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking views, especially at sunrise and sunset.
The hike can be strenuous, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water. The ropeway is a convenient alternative but can be crowded.
Hours: 05:00-12:00, 16:00-21:00 daily
Best Time: Early morning to avoid the heat and enjoy panoramic views.
Getting There: Requires a hike up Ratnagiri Hill or a ropeway ride (₹130 per person).
Honest Take: Worth the effort for the panoramic views.
💡 Insider Tip:
Start the hike early in the morning to avoid the heat and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Man Mahal
Man Mahal is a historic palace built by Raja Man Singh I of Amber. It now operates as a heritage hotel.
Explore the palace's architecture and enjoy the views of Pushkar Lake. The palace offers a glimpse into the region's royal history.
The palace is relatively small and can be explored in about an hour.
Hours: 09:00-18:00 daily
Best Time: Any time of day.
Getting There: Located on the banks of Pushkar Lake, easily accessible on foot.
Honest Take: Good for a quick visit to appreciate the architecture and lake views.
💡 Insider Tip:
Consider having a meal at the hotel's restaurant for a pleasant dining experience.
Rose Garden
Pushkar is known for its rose cultivation, and the Rose Garden offers a chance to see the fragrant blooms. The roses are used for making rose water and gulkand (rose petal jam).
Take a stroll through the garden, enjoy the colors and fragrances, and learn about the rose cultivation process.
The garden is a peaceful escape from the bustling town.
Hours: 08:00-18:00 daily
Best Time: Morning or late afternoon.
Getting There: Located a short distance from the main town, easily accessible by auto-rickshaw.
Honest Take: A relaxing place to spend an hour or two.
💡 Insider Tip:
Purchase some rose products, such as rose water or gulkand, as souvenirs.
Rangji Temple
Rangji Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is known for its South Indian architectural style, which is distinct from other temples in Pushkar.
Admire the intricate carvings and colorful decorations of the temple. Observe the rituals and prayers performed by the devotees.
The temple provides a unique cultural experience due to its different architectural style.
Hours: 09:00-12:00, 16:00-21:00 daily
Best Time: Anytime during opening hours.
Getting There: Located near the main market area, easily accessible on foot.
Honest Take: Worth visiting for its unique architecture.
💡 Insider Tip:
Pay attention to the intricate details of the carvings on the temple walls.
Apteshwar Temple
Apteshwar Temple is an underground temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is known for its unique location and the Shiva lingam (a symbolic representation of Lord Shiva).
Descend the steps to reach the underground shrine and experience the cool, tranquil atmosphere. The temple is a unique architectural marvel.
It's a small temple, and a quick visit is sufficient.
Hours: 06:00-20:00 daily
Best Time: Anytime during opening hours.
Getting There: Located near Pushkar Lake, easily accessible on foot.
Honest Take: Worth a quick visit for its unique underground setting.
💡 Insider Tip:
Be mindful of the slippery steps leading down to the temple.
Explore the desert landscape around Pushkar on a camel's back. The safari usually includes a ride through the sand dunes and visits to nearby villages.
Experience the unique perspective of the desert from atop a camel. Enjoy the sunset over the dunes and learn about the local culture.
Best for: Adventure seekers, nature lovers
Good to know: Wear comfortable clothing and sunscreen. Bargain for the best price.
Enjoy a breathtaking view of Pushkar and the surrounding desert from a hot air balloon. The ride usually takes place at sunrise or sunset.
Experience the serenity of floating above the landscape. Capture stunning photos of the desert, lake, and temples.
Best for: Luxury travelers, adventure seekers
Good to know: Book in advance, especially during peak season. Check the weather conditions before booking.
Learn to prepare traditional Rajasthani dishes in a hands-on cooking class. You'll learn about the spices and techniques used in local cuisine.
Enjoy the flavors of the dishes you've prepared. Interact with local chefs and learn about their culinary traditions.
Best for: Foodies, cultural enthusiasts
Good to know: Some classes include a visit to the local market to purchase ingredients.
Explore the colorful bazaars of Pushkar and shop for traditional Rajasthani handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs.
Practice your bargaining skills and find unique items to take home. The main market near Pushkar Lake is the best place to start.
Best for: Souvenir hunters, bargain shoppers
Good to know: Be prepared to bargain hard. Check the quality of the items before purchasing.
30-60 minutes | ₹200-500 | Ghats of Pushkar Lake
A puja is a Hindu prayer ceremony performed on the ghats of Pushkar Lake. It involves chanting mantras, offering flowers, and performing rituals.
Experience the spiritual atmosphere and participate in the ancient traditions. Be respectful of the religious customs.
Tip: Be cautious of priests who may try to pressure you into donating large sums of money. Negotiate the price beforehand.
30 minutes | Free | Brahma Temple
The aarti ceremony is a ritual of worship involving the waving of lamps before the deity. It's a vibrant and devotional experience.
Witness the colorful ceremony, listen to the chanting, and feel the spiritual energy. The atmosphere is usually very crowded but rewarding.
Tip: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. Dress modestly.
3-4 hours | ₹500-1000 per person | Villages near Pushkar
Take a guided tour to a nearby village and experience the rural way of life in Rajasthan. Learn about the local customs, traditions, and occupations.
Interact with the villagers, observe their daily activities, and gain insights into their culture. It's an opportunity to see a different side of Rajasthan.
Tip: Dress modestly and be respectful of the local customs. Ask permission before taking photos.
Varies | Free or ₹100-300 | Restaurants and cafes
Enjoy live performances of traditional Rajasthani music at various restaurants and cafes in Pushkar. The music often features folk songs and instruments.
Experience the vibrant culture of Rajasthan through its music. It's a great way to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Tip: Check the schedule of live performances at different venues.
1-2 hours | ₹200-500 | Market area
Get a traditional henna (mehndi) design applied to your hands or feet. Henna is a natural dye used for temporary skin decoration.
Choose from a variety of designs and let a skilled artist create a beautiful pattern. It's a popular cultural experience for tourists.
Tip: Ensure the henna artist uses natural henna and not chemical dyes, which can be harmful.
Varies | Free to enter the fair, costs for activities and purchases vary | Pushkar Fair Ground
The Pushkar Camel Fair is a vibrant annual event that attracts traders, pilgrims, and tourists from all over the world. It's a spectacle of camel trading, cultural performances, and religious activities.
Witness the camel trading, enjoy the cultural performances, and experience the festive atmosphere. It's a unique and unforgettable event.
Visiting during this period will mean higher prices and larger crowds.
Tip: Book accommodation and transportation well in advance if visiting during the Camel Fair.
Malpua
A sweet pancake, best tried at local sweet shops.
Dal Baati Churma
A traditional Rajasthani dish, available at most restaurants.
Lassi
A refreshing yogurt-based drink, try it at a roadside stall.
Ghevar
A disc-shaped sweet made from flour and sugar syrup, available at sweet shops.
Indian, Continental
📍 Near Pushkar Lake
Offers a relaxed atmosphere with views of Pushkar Lake. Good quality food and friendly service.
₹600-800 for two
Indian, Italian
📍 Near the market
A popular spot with a garden setting. Known for its pizzas and Indian dishes.
₹500-700 for two
Israeli, Continental
📍 Near Pushkar Lake
Offers Israeli and continental cuisine in a relaxed setting. A good choice for breakfast or lunch.
₹400-600 for two
Indian, Chinese
📍 Main Market
Affordable and tasty food with a rooftop seating. Offers both Indian and Chinese dishes.
₹300-500 for two
Continental, Indian
📍 Near Brahma Temple
A vibrant cafe with good music and a variety of food options. Known for its continental dishes.
₹500-700 for two
💰 Budget: ₹50-100 per person
⚠️ Tips: Choose stalls with fresh ingredients and clean surroundings. Be cautious of hygiene.
The heart of Pushkar, close to the main attractions and restaurants. Can be crowded and noisy, but very convenient.
Best For: First-time visitors, those who want to be close to the action
Quieter and more peaceful, with resorts offering a relaxing escape. Requires transportation to reach the main attractions.
Best For: Those seeking tranquility and luxury
₹500-800/night
📍 Near Pushkar Lake
Simple rooms with basic amenities. A good choice for budget travelers seeking a central location.
₹500-800/night
📍 Near the market
A popular hostel with dorm rooms and private rooms. Offers a social atmosphere and budget-friendly options.
₹400-700/night
₹1500-2500/night
📍 Near Savitri Temple
Comfortable rooms with modern amenities and a rooftop restaurant. Offers good value for money and scenic views.
₹1500-2500/night
📍 Near Brahma Temple
Well-maintained hotel with spacious rooms and a swimming pool. A convenient location for visiting the main attractions.
₹1200-2000/night
₹6000+/night
📍 Outskirts of Pushkar
A luxurious resort with spacious rooms, a spa, and multiple dining options. Offers a relaxing and indulgent experience.
₹6000+/night
📍 Outskirts of Pushkar
A high-end resort with luxurious villas, a spa, and a swimming pool. Perfect for a romantic getaway or a family vacation.
₹5000+/night
Airport: Jaipur International Airport (JAI), 140km from city
Ajmer Junction (AII)
Main railway station, located 15km from Pushkar. Connects to major cities in India.
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
Note: Trains more comfortable
💰 ₹50-150 per ride
Best for: Short distances within the town
Bargain for the fare before starting the journey. Confirm the destination.
💰 Free
Best for: Exploring the central area
Wear comfortable shoes and carry water. Be aware of the traffic.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and religious sites. Cover your shoulders and knees.
Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1000, Mid: ₹2500, Luxury: ₹5000+
ATMs: Availability is good in the main town.
Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for small transactions, while cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants.
Bargaining: Expected in markets and for auto-rickshaw fares.
Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water only. Avoid tap water.
Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unhygienic stalls.
Common Issues: Traveler's diarrhea is common. Bring necessary medications.
SIM Cards: Airtel and Vodafone offer good coverage. Cost: ₹300-500 with data.
WiFi: Available at most hotels and cafes.
Language: English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Hindi phrases is helpful.
Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: ₹50-100
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