Pushkar – Camels, Chants & Chill by the Lake

About Pushkar

Pushkar is located just 15 kilometers from Ajmer and sits at the edge of the Thar Desert. It’s one of the oldest existing towns in India, mentioned in ancient Hindu texts. At the heart of Pushkar is a sacred lake surrounded by 52 ghats and over 400 temples. The town is especially famous for being home to the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator in the Hindu trinity.

Pushkar is also known for its chilled-out vibe. You’ll see holy men, foreign tourists in yoga clothes, camels walking through narrow alleys, and shops selling incense, jewelry, and leather goods. It’s a deeply spiritual yet surprisingly accessible town.

History of Pushkar

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Pushkar’s origins are steeped in Hindu mythology. According to legend, Lord Brahma dropped a lotus flower from the sky, and the place where it landed became Pushkar Lake. To consecrate the site, he performed a yagna (fire sacrifice) and created the town.

Over centuries, Pushkar became a major pilgrimage site. It also became a trade center during the Mughal era and later a popular destination for British travelers. Today, Pushkar remains a rare combination — a religious town that also attracts global travelers without losing its identity.

Top Places to Visit in Pushkar

1. Pushkar Lake

   • Considered holy by Hindus, this lake is surrounded by ghats where pilgrims come to bathe and offer prayers. Sunrise and sunset at the lake are especially peaceful.

   • Location: Center of town

2. Brahma Temple

   • The only temple in India dedicated to Lord Brahma. It’s a simple structure but highly significant. Shoes and leather items are not allowed inside.

   • Location: Near Pushkar Lake

3. Savitri Temple

   • Located atop a hill, this temple is dedicated to Brahma’s wife, Savitri. It offers panoramic views of Pushkar. You can either hike or take the ropeway.

   • Location: Ratnagiri Hill

4. Varaha Temple

   • One of the oldest temples in Pushkar, dedicated to Lord Vishnu’s boar incarnation. It features interesting carvings and local architecture.

   • Location: Old town area

5. Pushkar Bazaar

   • A long stretch of shops selling Rajasthani clothes, silver jewelry, handicrafts, and leather items. Great for browsing and buying souvenirs.

   • Location: Main market street

6. Desert Safari Point

   • Offers camel rides and jeep safaris into the desert just outside town. Good for sunset rides and photo opportunities.

   • Location: Near outskirts of Pushkar

Things to Do in Pushkar

1. Take a dip in the ghats — It is considered purifying to bathe in the Pushkar Lake. Even if you don't bathe, sit by the water and soak in the atmosphere.

2. Watch the evening aarti — Every evening at Varaha Ghat, a small aarti (ritual with lamps) takes place. It’s quiet and meditative.

3. Try yoga or meditation — Many guesthouses and centers offer drop-in yoga classes.

4. Join a cooking class — Learn how to make Rajasthani curries, dal, and Indian breads from local families.

5. Ride a camel — Either within the town or as part of a desert safari. It's touristy but fun.

6. Attend the Camel Fair — If you visit in November, this is a major cultural event involving camel trading, music, dance, and competitions.

7. Walk around the town — Pushkar is compact and perfect for walking. Get lost in its lanes and explore temples, murals, and cafes.

What to Eat in Pushkar

Pushkar is a vegetarian town by religious tradition, but the variety of food is impressive. It’s also one of the best places to find fusion cafes due to the tourist crowd.

Must-Try Foods:

1. Malpua – A sweet pancake soaked in syrup, often found at local sweet shops.

2. Dal Baati Churma – A Rajasthani classic with lentils, baked wheat balls, and sweetened crushed wheat.

3. Aloo Paratha – Stuffed flatbread served with pickle and curd. Popular for breakfast.

4. Paneer Tikka – Grilled cottage cheese with spices, available in most cafes.

5. Lassi – Yogurt-based drink served sweet or salty, often in a clay cup.

6. Falafel Rolls and Hummus – Thanks to the foreign crowd, many Israeli cafes serve excellent Mediterranean food.

7. Italian and Continental Dishes – Available in places like Laughing Buddha Café and Sunset Café.

Note: Alcohol and non-vegetarian food are not served in Pushkar due to religious laws.

Where to Stay in Pushkar

Pushkar has accommodations ranging from basic guesthouses to boutique hotels and heritage stays.

Budget Options:

• Milkman Guesthouse

• Hotel Everest

• Bharatpur Palace Guesthouse

Mid-Range Options:

• Hotel Pushkar Palace (lakefront)

• Inn Seventh Heaven

• Pushkar Heritage Hotel

Luxury Options:

• Ananta Spa & Resorts

• Bhanwar Singh Palace

• The Westin Pushkar Resort & Spa

Tip: During the Camel Fair (October–November), hotels fill up fast. Book in advance.

Travel Tips

• Footwear: Many temples do not allow leather products, so carry slippers or fabric shoes.

• Cash: While ATMs exist, cash is preferred in markets.

• Dress modestly: Especially near temples and ghats.

• Respect rituals: If visiting during puja or aarti, avoid taking photos unless permitted.

• Avoid touts: Politely decline if someone tries to insist on performing a prayer for money.

• Photography: Always ask before clicking people or ceremonies.

• Stay hydrated: The climate is dry and sunny, so drink plenty of water.

• Connectivity: Mobile networks are decent; Wi-Fi is available in most cafes.

Hidden Gems in Pushkar

1. Gau Ghat – Less crowded than Brahma Ghat, but equally sacred and peaceful.

2. Rangji Temple – A blend of South Indian and Rajput architecture, not very well-known among tourists.

3. Mural Walks – Walk through side alleys to discover beautiful wall art and graffiti.

4. Pap Mochani Temple – A small hilltop temple with views and solitude, especially at sunrise.

5. Secret Cafes – Ask locals for rooftop cafés like Pink Floyd Café or Nirvana Café that aren’t easily found on Google Maps.

Local Phrases (Hindi)

• Namaste – Hello

• Aap kaise ho? – How are you?

• Yeh kitne ka hai? – How much is this?

• Dhanyavaad – Thank you

• Kya aap madad karenge? – Can you help me?

• Yatra shubh ho – Have a good journey

Most locals understand basic English, especially in the market and hotel areas.

How to Reach Pushkar

By Air:

• Nearest airport is Jaipur (146 km). From there, you can hire a cab or take a bus to Ajmer and then Pushkar.

By Train:

• Pushkar has a small station with limited trains. Most travelers get off at Ajmer Junction and then take a 30-minute drive to Pushkar.

By Road:

• Buses and taxis are available from Ajmer, Jaipur, Delhi, and Udaipur. Roads are well-maintained.

Local transport includes auto-rickshaws and bicycles for rent. Most people prefer walking as distances are short.

Final Thoughts

Pushkar is one of those places that leave an impression not because of grand monuments but because of its atmosphere. It’s spiritual without being overly religious, touristy without being pushy. The sound of temple bells, smell of incense, and calmness of the lake stay with you long after you leave.

Whether you’re here to attend the Camel Fair, explore temples, or simply unwind with a chai by the lake, Pushkar welcomes you with open arms. It’s a town to experience slowly — by foot, by heart, and without rush.