Pushkar is a unique blend of culture, tradition, and adventure, making it a fascinating destination for travellers. It's a perfect destination for people who want to explore the rich culture of Rajasthan, and also for people who are looking for a peaceful and spiritual getaway.
Pushkar is a city located in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan, India. It is situated on the banks of Pushkar Lake and is known for its temples, ghats, and annual Pushkar Camel Fair. The city is considered a sacred place by Hindus and is home to the only Brahma temple in the world. Pushkar is also famous for its vibrant bazaars and handicrafts. It is a popular tourist destination and attracts many visitors from all over the world. The city has managed to preserve its rich cultural heritage and traditional way of life, making it a unique and fascinating destination for travellers.
A Peek In the History:
Pushkar has a rich history dating back to ancient times. According to Hindu mythology, the city was created by the god Brahma, who is said to have dropped a lotus flower on the site, resulting in the creation of a lake. The city is also believed to have been visited by the god Shiva and the sage Agastya. The rejuvenation is not limited to the body but is soul deep. Brahma is the creator of the universe but ironically has very few temples, this being the one he created and blessed by himself.
In ancient history, Pushkar was an important center for trade and commerce, and was known for its textiles and perfumes. The city was also a center for learning and was home to scholars and poets.
During the medieval period, Pushkar came under the rule of various Rajput kings and princes, who built temples and palaces in the city. The Brahma Temple, which is believed to have been built in the 14th century, is an example of the architectural style of this period.
How to reach:
Pushkar can be reached by various means of transportation:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Pushkar is the Sanganer Airport in Jaipur, which is located around 135 km from the city. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Pushkar.
- By Train: The nearest railway station to Pushkar is Ajmer, which is well connected to major cities in India. From Ajmer, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Pushkar, which is located around 14 km away.
- By Bus: Pushkar has a well-connected network of bus services from major cities in Rajasthan and nearby states. State-run and private buses are available to reach Pushkar from Jaipur, Ajmer, and other nearby towns.
- By Car: Pushkar is well connected by road and can be reached by car from major cities like Jaipur, Ajmer, and Udaipur.
It's worth noting that Pushkar is a small town, it's easy to move around by foot or by bicycle. If you're planning to visit the nearby places, then hiring a bike or car could be a good option. Another way to reach Pushkar is by renting a private vehicle or taking a shared taxi from major cities like Jaipur and Ajmer.
Climate and best time to visit
The best time to visit Pushkar would be during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable, making it perfect for sightseeing and exploring the city. The temperature during this time ranges between 15-25 degrees Celsius. The Pushkar Camel Fair, which is held in November, is a unique and popular event that attracts a large number of tourists internationally.
Ideal Days to stay:
2-3 day trip is ideal for a short vacation or leisurely holiday with your partner or buddies.
Top Attractions to Explore:
- Pushkar Lake: The sacred Pushkar Lake is considered one of the most important pilgrimage sites in India. It's believed that taking a dip in the lake during the auspicious period of Kartik Purnima will wash away all sins.
- Brahma Temple: The Brahma Temple is one of the very few temples in the world dedicated to Lord Brahma and is considered one of the most important places of worship in Pushkar.
- Savitri Temple: The Savitri Temple is located on the top of a hill and offers a panoramic view of the city of Pushkar. It's dedicated to Lord Brahma's wife, Savitri.
- Pushkar Bazaar: The bazaar is famous for its vibrant atmosphere, colorful shops, and traditional Rajasthani handicrafts. It's a great place to shop for souvenirs and traditional items.
- Rangji Temple: The Rangji Temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Vaishnavites, and is dedicated to Lord Rangji, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
- Pushkar Camel Fair: The Pushkar Camel Fair is held annually in November and is one of the largest cattle fairs in the world. It's a great opportunity to witness the vibrant culture and tradition of Rajasthan.
- Dargah Sharif: Dargah Sharif is the tomb of the Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, and is an important pilgrimage site for Muslims.
- Anasagar Lake: The Anasagar Lake is a large artificial lake located on the outskirts of Pushkar. It's a popular spot for boating and picnicking.
Accommodation Recommendations:
Pushkar offers a wide range of accommodation options for visitors, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. Here are a few recommendations for different types of accommodation in Pushkar:
- Budget-friendly: For budget-friendly accommodation, you can try guesthouses or homestays such as Hotel Nk Palace, Hotel Pushkar Palace, or Hotel Laxmi Palace. These options offer comfortable rooms at affordable prices.
- Mid-range: If you're looking for something in the mid-range category, you can try hotels such as Hotel Royal Palace, Hotel Pushkar Heritage, or Hotel Pushkar Palace. These options offer comfortable rooms with private bathrooms and other amenities.
- Luxury: For a more luxurious experience, you can try resorts such as Pushkar Bagh, Hotel Pushkar Fort, or Hotel Pushkar Heritage Resort. These options offer high-end amenities and comfortable rooms with modern facilities.
- Boutique: For a more unique experience you can try boutique hotels such as Hotel Royal Haveli, Hotel Pushkar Palace Heritage, or Hotel Pushkar Heritage Resort. These options offer high-end amenities and comfortable rooms with modern facilities and a touch of traditional Rajasthani architecture.
