Pushkar FairPushkar Fair

The land of landscapes, epitome of divinity, spirituality and confluence of nature’s diversity are all contained in holy Pushkar. This small pretty town situated just 13km from Ajmer is one of the most visited pilgrimage place in India. The town is host to the annual Pushkar fair which is the largest cattle and cultural fair. For a Hindu devout like me, a pilgrimage tour would not be complete without Pushkar. Various colors reflecting in every phase, vibrantly dressed men and women and decorated camels welcomed me to the holy town. Pushkar is also known as ‘the rose garden of Rajasthan’ because of its fragrant roses whose essence is exported all over the world. The sacred Pushkar Lake, the 52 Ghats and 500 temples are the mythical charms of the place making Pushkar tour a favorite pilgrimage.

Pushkar Tourism covers Pushkar Fair, Pushkar Lake and various Pushkar Temples.

Pushkar Lake: According to Hindu mythology, at the time of beginning of Universe a lotus flower sprang from the navel of lord Vishnu and Brahma took birth from the said lotus. Brahma then threw a lotus flower to select suitable spot for the sacrifice. Lotus struck at particular place and water spurted from there giving it a shape of pious Pushkar Lake; which is revered as the supreme place of pilgrimage. The water of the lake is believed to be purifying and healing. The lake is hugged by 52 Ghats some of which are 300 years old and have innumerable small temples. The pilgrims take holy dip for salvation.

Ghats of Pushkar LakeGhats of Pushkar Lake

Pushkar Brahma Temple: Built in 14th century with marble and decorated with silver coin, the temple is identified with a red spire and image of Hans. There is a silver turtle on the floor of the temple. The Brahma idol is housed in the sanctum. It is customary for pilgrims to stand on the steps and put coins to mark the deaths and births of their loved ones.

Pushkar Fair held each November is the most colorful event, a time when the whole town comes alive. In the fair different specious of cattle Bulls, Horse, Camel, Donkey, etc. brought in from Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, etc. and good trading take place. The fair starts a week before the Karthik Poonam and ends on the full moon night.

With this my much awaited and sacred tour to Pushkar came to a calming and holy end leaving me feeling pious.