Pushkar Fair 2026: Complete Travel Guide, Dates, Events, Camel Fair and Things to Do
Pushkar Fair is an annual livestock trading and cultural event. It is scheduled to be held from November 17 to Kartik Purnima, falling on November 24, 2026, this year. Pushkar Fair 2026 features many exciting events and competitions, such as the longest moustache contest, attracting travelers worldwide.
The Pushkar Fair is one of the colorful events of Rajasthan. Held during the Hindu calendar month of Kartik, from November 17 to 24, this cultural fair brings together traders, pilgrims, and travelers. It features camel races and contests, folk music, and unique competitions that feel magical and exciting, making you take a pause and enjoy the moment. Therefore, travelers who are visiting the Pushkar Fair 2026 must have information about dates, events, highlights, accommodation, and other things so they can make their travel well-planned and stress-free.
Pushkar Fair Overview
Pushkar Fair is an annual livestock trading and cultural event, held in the sacred town of Pushkar in Rajasthan. Every year, this fair is held in the month of Kartik, according to the Hindu calendar. For 2026, the fair is going to start from November 17 to November 24, for a total of 8 days.
The history of the Pushkar Fair dates back generations. With no clear historical date, it was a gathering ground for desert nomads and livestock farmers trading animals, with pilgrims taking holy dips in the Pushkar Lake. As time went by, this gathering evolved into what we know today as the Pushkar Mela or Pushkar Fair.
At present, it has become one of the largest livestock fairs worldwide, attracting travelers, pilgrims, and local traders. It also features various cultural events, contests like the longest moustache, matka phod, camel competitions, and others.
Pushkar Fair 2026 Dates and Location
The Pushkar Fair 2026 is going to be held in the Kartik month, from Kartik Ekadashi to Kartik Purnima, as per the lunar Indian calendar. Therefore, the dates of the Pushkar Mela vary if you look at the Gregorian calendar, as it is based on the solar year.
- Pushkar Fair Dates 2026: November 17 to November 24
- Pushkar Camel Fair 2026 Timing: Activities take place throughout the day, with some cultural programmes running till evening.
The Pushkar Fair 2026, just like each year, is scheduled to happen at the Pushkar Mela Ground in the desert town of Pushkar in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan.
Pushkar Camel Fair 2026 Highlights
Pushkar Camel Fair 2026 combines livestock trading with traditional Rajasthani culture, entertainment, and spiritual celebrations. This colorful event lets visitors experience the various activities, music, dance performances such as the iconic Ghoomar, and unique competitions.
Look at the highlights of Pushkar Fair below:
1. Livestock Trading
Visitors can see thousands of camels, horses, and cattle being washed, decorated with traditional colorful textiles, beads, and metallic ornaments, becoming ready for trading.
2. Quirky Competitions
Various local competitions such as the largest moustache contest, matka phod, turban-tying, and unique bridal contests entertain visitors and inspire them to participate.
3. Animal Performances
Visitors at the Pushkar Fair 2026 can encounter various animal performances, including camel dancing, showing off moves, and swaying to the rhythm of live traditional bands.
4. Folk Music and Dance Performances
Folk music and dance performances are another unique aspect of the Pushkar Camel Fair Rajasthan. Dozens of artists and dancers gather alongside to entertain visitors through melodies of love, mythical stories, and legends.
5. Traditional Instruments
There are various traditional instruments that travelers and musicians get to see. They include string instruments, percussion, and wind instruments.
Bowed and String Instruments
- Ravanhatta
- Sarangi
- Kamaicha
Percussion Instruments
- Dholak
- Nagada
- Khartal
Wind and Folk Instruments
- Algoza
- Morchang
6. Spiritual Rituals
Pilgrims from all across Rajasthan and India take holy dips in the sacred Pushkar Lake on the last day, Kartik Purnima, followed by the grand evening aartis and diya floating ritual.
7. Colorful Bazaars
Bazaars or markets are one of the major highlights of the Pushkar Mela 2026. Featuring handcrafted textiles, jewellery, accessories, and leather goods, it not only lets visitors take a beautiful memory of the fair, but also financially helps the local vendors.
Adventure Activities
At the Pushkar Mela, travelers can enjoy a bundle of adventurous activities, including desert camel safari, hot air ballooning, quad biking, rural sports and competitions, and desert camping.
Pushkar Fair 2026: A Simple 8 Day Itinerary
Here is a recommended 8-day itinerary for the fair with respect to the Pushkar Camel Fair 2026 dates:
Day 1: Arrive in Pushkar
Arrive in Pushkar and check into your preferred accommodation, whether a tented camp at Pushkar Mela Ground, a boutique hotel, a heritage haveli, or a resort.
Day 2: Explore the Mela Grounds
Reach the Pushkar Mela Ground to see thousands of camels and other animals arriving. Spend your morning watching the trading and the rest of the day visiting nearby temples.
Day 3: Trading and Desert Safari
Spend Day 3 visiting the trading grounds, trading, artists gathering, and vendors setting up their shops. Then book a late-afternoon jeep or camel safari and witness the warm, beautiful sunset.
Day 4: Shop for Local Handicrafts
Shop for traditional handicrafts, such as local textiles, jewellery, and accessories. By the evening, visit the calm Pushkar Lake or Savitri Mata Temple for stunning city views from the hilltop.
Day 5: Sports Day
On the next day, witness local sports such as tug-of-war between locals and visitors. You can also take part in various adventurous activities, including hot air ballooning and jeep safari, etc.
Day 6: Folk Music and Dance Performances
Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the local folk music and dance performances at the fair. You can also photograph and see other photographers capturing this unique trading and cultural event.
Day 7: Maha Aarti
On the 7th day, attend the grand aarti, or Maha Aarti, at the Pushkar Lake ghats, and watch the atmosphere fill with prayers and light up with traditional lamps or diyas.
Day 8: Holy Dips in Pushkar Lake
On the last day of the Pushkar Fair 2026, hundreds of devotees take holy dips in the Pushkar Lake, signifying the end of the fair. You can also visit the ghats for a holy dip before departing.
How to Reach Pushkar Camel Fair 2026?
Pushkar is well-connected with major cities, including Jaipur, Jodhpur, Ajmer, Delhi, and Mumbai. You can reach there by air, train, and road easily. From the city, reaching Pushkar Mela Grounds takes only about 5 to 10 minutes, which can be covered with local transport.
Here is how you can reach Pushkar:
By Air
- Jaipur International Airport (JAI) is the closest major airport.
- From there, hire a taxi or take the Rajasthan State Roadways to reach Pushkar.
By Train
- Ajmer Junction (AII) is your closest option, connecting major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur.
- From the station, Pushkar is only about 15 km away, which you can cover through a hired taxi or other preferred transport option.
Best Places to Visit in Pushkar During the Fair
Pushkar Camel Fair Rajasthan is lively and vibrantly festive in itself; however, apart from it, there are several other places you can visit to have a quick cultural exploration. Here are some of the best places you can visit in Pushkar during the fair:
1. Brahma Temple
Brahma Temple in Pushkar is one of the few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma. The original site is believed to be 2,000 years old, but the temple was built around the 14th century.
Brahma Temple Timings:
- Winter: 6:30 am to 1:30 pm and 3:00 pm to 8:30 pm
- Summer: 6:00 am to 1:30 pm and 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm
2. Pushkar Lake
You may also visit Pushkar Lake during the trip. The lake is located in the Aravalli range and is known as the Tirtha Raj or the king of the pilgrimage sites.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or around sunset
3. Savitri Mata Temple
Savitri Mata Temple is located on top of the Ratnagiri Hill. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Savitri and offers breathtaking views of the city.
- Savitri Mata Temple Timings: 8:00 am to 7:00 pm, with closure from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm
4. Pushkar Bazaar
Travelers who want to get a closer look at the local lifestyle can visit the Pushkar Bazaar. Featuring bohemian clothing, silver jewellery, textiles, and other local handicrafts, this market lets you explore the traditional Rajasthani artistry.
5. Varaha Temple
Varaha Temple was built in the 12th century by King Anaji Chauhan. It is dedicated to the Varaha, or wild boar, incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Travelers can explore the Marwari-Rajasthani architecture with intricate carvings, sculptures, and Garuda pillars.
Varaha Temple Timings:
- Morning: 6:00 am to 12:00 pm
- Evening: 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm
6. Rangji Temple
Rangji Temple is a 19th-century shrine, dedicated to Lord Vaikuntha Venkatesh, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It features large gatekeeping statues, stone carvings, and paintings, which visitors often find wonderful.
- Rangji Temple Timings: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm daily, with closure between 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm
7. Desert Adventure
You can also consider experiencing the adventurous Pushkar Desert Safari. There are morning and evening slots available, which you can book through your travel operator. You can also immerse yourself in overnight camping and stargazing, which is very unique and different.
Local Food to Try at the Pushkar Fair?
You can try a variety of traditional Rajasthani dishes, sweet treats, drinks, and street food options at the Pushkar Fair. They include:
- Dal Baati Churma
- Poha with Mathri and Dal
- Kachori and Sabzi
- Rabri Malpua
- Rose Gulkand Lassi
- Kulhad Chai
- Poha Pizza Pakwan
- Camel Milk Products
Pushkar Camel Fair 2026 Ticket Price
The Pushkar Camel Fair is completely free for travelers. This means there are no fees charged for entering the fairgrounds, watching cultural performances, or witnessing livestock trading.
You only need to be prepared for fees charged for desert safaris, hot air balloon rides, or guided tours.
Where to Stay in Pushkar?
Travelers can access a wide range of accommodation options in Pushkar, including budget stays, luxury resorts, heritage havelis, and other boutique stay options.
Here is an overview of accommodations available in Pushkar:
| Accommodation | Best For | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Luxury Resorts | Families and couples | Comfortable rooms, pools and desert views |
| Heritage Hotels | Culture lovers | Traditional Rajasthani architecture and ambience |
| Boutique Hotels | Couples and small groups | Stylish, peaceful and personalised stay |
| Budget Hotels | Budget travellers | Affordable rooms with basic facilities |
| Hostels and Guesthouses | Backpackers and solo travellers | Economical and social atmosphere |
| Desert and Camel Camps | Mela experience | Tented stay, folk performances and desert activities |
| Homestays | Authentic local experience | Local food, hospitality and cultural experience |
Pushkar Fair Travel Tips
Here are some of the travel tips for Pushkar Camel Fair 2026:
- Book your stay in advance as slots fill up fast during the fair.
- Compare the Pushkar Camel Fair 2026 price for accommodation to get the best deals.
- Always carry enough cash with you due to limited ATM access nearby.
- Wear comfortable clothes at the fair and while experiencing adventure activities.
- Carry sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for skin protection.
- Keep a reusable water bottle with you for hydration.
- Keep your valuables and mobile phone safe in crowded areas.
- Maintain respect for local customs and temple rules when visiting.
- Ask for permission before capturing photos of locals.
- Do not disturb animals around you.
- Follow the rules and do not enter the restricted livestock areas.
- Do not litter or throw garbage around you or in the fair.
Conclusion
Pushkar Fair is a lively journey into the authentic Rajasthani culture and tradition. Held in Pushkar, this fair features various cultural activities, unique competitions, entertainment, and more. From families and couples to solo travelers to international backpackers, this fair leaves them amazed, with no words to express their wonderful experiences. Also, with a detailed guide to events and itinerary, travelers can plan a convenient vacation for Pushkar Fair 2026.
If you wish to experience the wonders of Pushkar Fair 2026, then connect with Noble House Tours Pvt. Ltd. today. We are a government-approved and reputable tour operator in Delhi that provides guided tours to various heritage sites in India. In our Pushkar Fair package, we cover accommodation, transport, and other travel arrangements, making your trip comfortable and safe. Our team is highly experienced and provides consistent client support. Thus, reach out to us today and get your best deals for Pushkar Fair travel packages 2026.
