Pushkar is one of India’s oldest cities. It, located northwest of Ajmer, is a popular location for thousands of visitors and worshippers travelling to Rajasthan. Pushkar, at 510 metres in elevation, is flanked on three sides by hillocks.
The ‘Nag Pahar,’ or Snake Mountain, forms a natural boundary between Ajmer and Pushkar. The essence of the famed Pushkar rose, known as ‘the rose garden of Rajasthan,’ is sold all over the world. Pushkar is a wonderful city with an amazing mythological history and a legacy of ageless architectural heritage.
According to legend, Lord Brahma, who is thought to be the creator of the Universe, dropped a lotus on the ground, resulting in the immediate creation of a lake. He then decided to name the place after the flower, and thus the name, Pushkar.
The city of Pushkar is home to the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma in the whole world. Hindus consider a journey to this city to be the ultimate pilgrimage that must be undertaken to attain salvation.
How to visit Pushkar?
- The nearest airport is Sanganer Airport in Jaipur, which is 146 kilometres away.
- It is well connected to Rajasthan’s national highways. From the Ajmer bus station, regular buses run from this city to the important cities of Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Ajmer.
- Train Icon Pushkar Terminus Railway Station, which has been in service since 2012, is connected to Ajmer Railway Station, which is 14 kilometres away.
Places to visit in Pushkar
Pushkar lake
The hallowed Pushkar Lake is characterised in Hindu scriptures as ‘Tirtha Raj,’ the king of all pilgrimage locations. Without a dip in the holy Lake, no pilgrimage is considered complete. This lake, which is semi-circular in shape and around 8-10 metres deep, is flanked by 52 bathing ghats and over 400 temples and is definitely a lovely site to witness.
Brahma temple
The Brahma temple, located in the scenic Pushkar valley beyond the Nangaparvat and Anasagar Lakes, maintains a particular place in the hearts of Indians. It is the world’s sole temple dedicated to Lord Brahma. This temple is distinguished by its red spire and the image of a swan made of marble and adorned with silver coins (considered sacred to Lord Brahma). The inner sanctuary houses Lord Brahma’s chaturmukhi (four-faced) idol. At the temple, a marble figure of the sun deity sits sentinel. Surya, on the other hand, is shown wearing ancient warrior’s boots, despite the fact that all of the gods are shown barefoot
Gurudwara singh sabha
The Gurudwara is located in the eastern part of Pushkar. It is a large white marble. It was built to commemorate the visit of the first and last gurus- Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Varaha temple
It is the most ancient temple of Pushkar and is the home to the third incarnation of Lord Vishnu which represents him as a wild boar. It was constructed by 12th-century king Anaji Chauhan. It is said that Varaha rescued Earth from the depth of primeval water which was caused by a demon.
Rangji temple
This is another gracious monument which attracts thousands. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This temple is primarily popular because of the way it incorporates the Mughal, the South Indian and the Rajput style of architecture. The ‘Gupuram’ in the temple which is a structure present in South Indian architecture is also a part of this temple.
PANCHKUND TEMPLE
It is said that the temple was built by the Pandavas and that is a prime reason why many people visit it every year. It is on the eastern edge of the city and is just 2 -3 km away from the lake.
Man mahal
It is one of the greatest palaces of this city, known for the royal Rajputana style of architecture that adorns it from all ends. It was built in order to serve as a guest house for Raja Man Singh I. Now just like most of the royal palaces, it has been converted into a heritage hotel known as RTDC Hotel Sarovar. It not only allows the people to enjoy luxury in all its beauty but also allows them to relax by inhaling the poised streams of fragrance that the lakes transpire.
Things to try out in pushkar
Dessert Safari
Camel ride on the sand dunes. If you like the natural beauty of the land, you must go on this desert safari at least once. You may ride it on a camel or in an automobile. The sand dunes, geographical formations, and ups and downs over the sand may confuse you.
This is a one-of-a-kind experience. It’s only about two kilometres from the Brahma Temple. It is best to visit two hours before sunset. If you are visiting Pushkar, this is a must-do activity.
Camel Festival
The largest fair in the state of Rajasthan, the Pushkar Fair as the name suggests, is a camel and livestock fair held all across the town of Pushkar. The fair now attracts tourists from all over the country and the world. Apart from the regular transactions of livestock, several competitions are held such as ‘The longest moustache’, ‘The bridal competition’, ‘Breaking the pot (matka phod)’ and many others. The men are busy with the goats, camels, sheep and cows while the women pass their time in the stalls selling native jewellery, clothes and textiles. The fair is held during the months of October and November.
What to eat in Pushkar?
- Malpuas at Radhey Ji near Varah Ghat
- Vegan Menu at Nature’s Blessings
- Khasta Kachori at Pushkar Raj Stall
- Parathas at Lala Ji
- Falafels at Main Market
- Hot Chocolate Nutella Pancakes with Bananas at Funky Monkey
- Chatka Churan near Brahma Temple
Markets in Pushkar
The markets in Pushkar are filled with Bohemian vibes. Shopping in Pushkar is a tangy affair. From duffle bags to macrame bracelets in pastel colours, the market looks nothing like your local rural markets. Naturally, shopping is one of the best things to do in Pushkar for men and women alike. Most importantly, the markets are open throughout the day. So, whenever you end up there do not forget to bargain a lot. By harnessing your bargaining skills, you can easily buy goods at 1/10th of the first mention.
Best time to visit Pushkar
Well, it is in the winter. From October-March is the best time to visit Pushkar. A post that the heat waves very typical to Rajasthan take over. However, if you wish to escape the crowd try out, August and September when rains make it pleasanter.
Pushkar is undoubtedly that sleepy and paradoxically enough vibrant town which is a wholesome combination of great architecture, soothing spiritualism and extremely lip-smacking food.
Moreover, it allows you to visit Ajmer, Kishnagarh, Sambhar Salt Lake etc, easily. Therefore, when in Rajasthan don’t forget to complete your tour without visiting Pushkar. Only Jaipur and Udaipur won’t give you the finest essence of ‘Padharo Mahare Des’.
