If you are interested in immersing yourself in the vibrant and colorful culture of India, the Pushkar Festival in India is an event that should be at the top of your list. Also known as Pushkar Mela, this annual festival is a five-day celebration of Rajasthan’s rich culture, tradition, and history. Here is the ultimate guide to attending the Pushkar Festival in India.
What is the Pushkar Festival in India?
The Pushkar Festival is a lively and colorful celebration of Rajasthan’s culture and tradition, held every year in the small town of Pushkar in the state of Rajasthan. The festival is centered around Pushkar Lake, which is considered to be one of the holiest lakes in India. The festival brings together people from all over India, as well as international travelers, to witness the vibrant culture and enjoy the festivities.
When is the Pushkar Festival In India?
The Pushkar Festival is a five-day event that takes place every year in November, during the Kartik Purnima full moon. The exact dates may vary, so it’s crucial to check the calendar before making your travel plans.
Why is Pushkar Fair Celebrated?
Pushkar Camel Fair is one of the largest and most popular festivals in India. It is a vibrant and colourful celebration that takes place every year in the town of Pushkar, Rajasthan. This festival is an important event for the locals, and it attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world.
The origins of the Pushkar camel fair can be drafted back to old times. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe, dropped a lotus flower on the ground, and a lake was formed where the flower landed. This lake is known as Pushkar Lake, and it is believed to be a sacred site for Hindus.
It is said that Lord Brahma performed a yagna (a Hindu ritual) at the site of the lake, and the Pushkar Fair is believed to have originated from this event. The festival is held in honor of Lord Brahma and is celebrated during the month of Kartik (October-November) as per the Hindu calendar.
During the Pushkar Fair, thousands of devotees gather at Pushkar Lake to take a holy dip and offer prayers. The festival is also famous for its camel fair, which is the biggest in the world. Camels, horses, and other domestic animals are brought to the fair to be traded, and there are also various cultural events and competitions held throughout the week-long festival.
What’s the best way for foreigners to visit Pushkar Fair?
If you’re planning on attending the Pushkar Fair, it’s essential to consider the best way to visit the festival, particularly if you’re a foreigner.
- Consider Joining an Organized Tour Group – Joining an organized tour group is the best way for tourists to visit the Pushkar Fair. Tour groups get special prices at hotels and attractions, and they handle all the necessary preparations for guests’ stays.
- Book Accommodations in Advance – The number of visitors during the Camel Fair causes a surge in demand for hotels, and prices rise accordingly. To ensure availability and the best pricing, make a reservation in advance.
- Look into State Tourism Ministry Preparations – The State Tourism Ministry also makes all the necessary preparations for guests’ stays, so be sure to check for any updates or information they may provide.
- Consider Pushkar Adventure Desert Camp – If you’re looking for accommodation, Pushkar Adventure Desert Camp is one of the best camps in Pushkar. It offers comfortable tents with all the necessary amenities, including hot showers, western-style toilets, and delicious food.
How to get there?
Pushkar is easily accessible from various parts of the country through different modes of transportation. If you prefer to travel by road, you can reach Ajmer, which is the nearest major city. It takes only 30 minutes to reach Pushkar from Ajmer via the mountain pass road, which offers breathtaking views of the scenery.
From Ajmer, you can easily find regular buses to Pushkar, though they can be crowded, the journey is quick and cost-effective. Additionally, Pushkar has a railway station just 11 km away from the city, with an unreserved train departing from Ajmer at 9:50 a.m. and arriving at 10:50 a.m. The ticket cost for this train is ten rupees, and it doesn’t run on Tuesdays and Fridays. However, you cannot purchase tickets in advance for this train.
If you prefer to travel by air, the closest airports are Jaipur Sanganer and Kishangarh airports, with distances of 150.9 km and 41 km, respectively. From these airports, you can hire a cab driver to reach Pushkar. However, during the festival season, taxi rates can increase significantly, so be prepared to negotiate.
Things to do at Pushkar Festival
Experience desert camping or luxury glamping
One of the top things to do in Pushkar Mela is to indulge in desert camping or glamping. With large, luxurious tents equipped with all the necessary amenities, camping in the dunes or staying in a plush tent under the full moon is an unparalleled experience. This is why people from all over the world flock to Pushkar for this unique experience.
Embark on a camel safari
A trip to Pushkar is incomplete without hopping onto a camel and traversing through the rolling dunes and vast desert terrain. A camel safari is one of the most captivating ways to explore the vast desert landscape and witness stunning views during sunrise and sunset.
Take a thrilling hot-air balloon ride
For the adventure-seekers, a hot air balloon ride is one of the things to do in Pushkar that offers an unmatched way to enjoy panoramic views of the desert town. While this activity is not for the faint-hearted, it is certainly an unforgettable experience for those who dare to take on the heights.
Participate in cultural programs
The Pushkar Fair is not just about the market and livestock trading. It also offers a rich cultural experience with various programs that showcase the vibrant culture of Rajasthan. You can witness musical performances, dance shows, puppet shows, and even magic shows. The highlight of the cultural programs is the Rajasthani folk dance and music performances, which are a visual treat.
Take a stroll in the Mela Ground
The Pushkar Mela ground is a sprawling area where the fair takes place. It is a colorful sight with various activities taking place simultaneously. You can take a leisurely stroll around the grounds and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the fair. You may also come across street performers and artists showcasing their talents.
Visit Brahma Temple
Pushkar is home to the only Brahma Temple in the world. This ancient temple is devoted to Lord Brahma, the Hindu God of Creation. The temple is known for its exquisite architecture and intricate carvings. You can take a tour of the temple and learn about its history and significance.
Witness the Camel Beauty Contest
The Pushkar camel fair is famous for its Camel Beauty Contest, which is a unique event where the most beautiful camels from all over Rajasthan compete for the title of the ‘most beautiful camel’. The camels are decorated with colorful accessories, and they walk the ramp to show off their beauty. It is a sight to behold and an unforgettable experience.
Main Attractions at Pushkar Fair
Cattle Fair
Pushkar Fair is primarily a cattle fair where traders from different parts of Rajasthan come to buy and sell livestock. This is a unique opportunity to witness thousands of camels, cows, horses, and goats being traded in one place.
Religious Significance
Pushkar India is considered one of the most sacred places, and the fair takes place during the auspicious occasion of Karthik Purnima. Taking a dip in the holy Pushkar Lake during this time is believed to cleanse one’s sins and lead one toward enlightenment.
Entertainment
The fair is not just about trading and religious activities; it also offers a range of entertainment options for visitors. You can enjoy puppet shows, magic shows, acrobatics, and live music performances by local artists.
Shopping
Pushkar Fair is a shopaholic’s paradise with hundreds of stalls selling a range of handicrafts, textiles, jewellery, and souvenirs. This is an excellent opportunity to pick up some traditional Rajasthani items and take them home as gifts.
Food
No festival in India is complete without delicious food, and Pushkar Fair is no exception. You can indulge in mouth-watering Rajasthani cuisine, along with other Indian and international delicacies, from the various food stalls set up at the fair.
Conclusion
The Pushkar camel fair is an incredible celebration of Rajasthan’s rich culture and tradition and an event that should not be missed. With its colorful festivities, cultural activities, and religious significance, it offers a unique and immersive experience for travelers looking to explore India’s vibrant culture. With this ultimate guide, you’ll be well-prepared to attend the Pushkar Festival and create unforgettable memories.
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