Pushkar, India Travel Guide

Discover the mystical charm of Pushkar, a sacred town in Rajasthan known for its holy lake, vibrant camel fair, and captivating blend of spirituality and culture.

Nestled in the heart of Rajasthan, Pushkar is a vibrant and enchanting town that beckons travelers with its unique blend of spirituality, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its sacred Pushkar Lake, this town is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus, attracting thousands of devotees who come to take a dip in its holy waters. The lake is surrounded by 52 ghats, each with its own story and significance, creating a serene and mystical atmosphere. Pushkar is also famous for its annual camel fair, which is one of the largest and most colorful livestock fairs in the world. During this time, the town transforms into a bustling hub of activity, with traders, performers, and tourists from all over the globe coming together to witness this spectacular event. The fairground is filled with the sounds of folk music, the aroma of local delicacies, and the sight of elaborately decorated camels, making it an unforgettable experience. Beyond its religious and cultural significance, Pushkar offers a range of activities for the adventurous traveler. You can explore the surrounding desert on a camel safari, hike up to the Savitri Temple for panoramic views of the town, or simply wander through the narrow streets lined with colorful bazaars and quaint cafes. The town's laid-back vibe, combined with its rich heritage and natural beauty, makes Pushkar a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through Rajasthan.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Pushkar.

Visit Pushkar during the annual Camel Fair in November for a truly unique experience.
Take a dip in the holy Pushkar Lake to participate in the local ritual and experience the spiritual ambiance.
Hike up to the Savitri Temple early in the morning to enjoy a stunning sunrise view over Pushkar.
Explore the local bazaars for unique handicrafts, jewelry, and textiles that make perfect souvenirs.
Try the local cuisine, especially the traditional Rajasthani thali and street food like kachori and malpua.

Explore Pushkar: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Pushkar

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Jagatpita Shri Brahma Mandir

Explore the spiritual heart of Pushkar at Jagatpita Shri Brahma Mandir, a unique temple dedicated to Lord Brahma, offering rich cultural experiences.

4.6

Adhai Din Ka Jhopra - Ajmer

Explore the mesmerizing Adhai Din Ka Jhopra in Ajmer, an architectural marvel that beautifully blends history and spirituality.

4.4

Shree Savitri Mata Mandir

Discover the serene beauty and spiritual essence of Shree Savitri Mata Mandir, a must-visit temple in Pushkar offering breathtaking views and rich culture.

4.6

Soni Ji Ki Nasiya Jain Temple

Discover the architectural beauty and spiritual serenity of Soni Ji Ki Nasiya Jain Temple in Ajmer, a must-visit cultural gem in Rajasthan.

4.5

Best landmarks in Pushkar

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Jagatpita Shri Brahma Mandir

Explore the unique Jagatpita Shri Brahma Mandir, the world's only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma, nestled in the spiritual town of Pushkar, Rajasthan.

4.6

Savitri Mata Temple

Discover the serene beauty and spiritual essence of Savitri Mata Temple, a must-visit Hindu temple in Pushkar, Rajasthan.

4.6

Pushkar Lake

Explore the tranquil beauty and spiritual significance of Pushkar Lake, a must-visit destination in Rajasthan, surrounded by rich culture and history.

4.5

Pushkar desert camel safarl

Explore the stunning Pushkar desert on a camel safari – an unforgettable adventure blending culture, nature, and breathtaking landscapes in Rajasthan.

4.2

Best restaurants in Pushkar

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La Pizzaria Restaurant

Discover La Pizzaria: A pizza lover's paradise in Pushkar offering authentic Italian flavors in a cozy setting.

4.5

Rainbow Restaurant

Experience delightful fast food and family-friendly dining at Rainbow Restaurant in the heart of Pushkar.

4.6

Radhe Ji Restauraunt

Experience authentic Indian vegetarian cuisine at Radhe Ji Restaurant in Pushkar - where every meal is a celebration of flavors.

4.5

Ganga Laffa & Falafel Restaurant

Experience authentic Israeli cuisine at Ganga Laffa & Falafel Restaurant in Pushkar – where fast food meets flavorful traditions.

4.5

Best bars in Pushkar

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Cafe Lake View – Best Pizza and Multicuisine Restaurant | Top Coffee Cafe in Pushkar

Discover the best pizza and multicuisine delights at Cafe Lake View, Pushkar's top dining destination with stunning lake views.

4.2

Hotel Sunset & Roof Top Restauant

Experience the perfect blend of comfort and exquisite dining at Hotel Sunset & Rooftop Restaurant in Pushkar, Rajasthan. Enjoy breathtaking views and delightful flavors.

4.0

Om Shiva Garden Restaurant

Savor the flavors of Italy amidst the serene surroundings of Pushkar at Om Shiva Garden Restaurant, a culinary delight for every traveler.

4.2

R.R Hotel Bar Non Veg Restaurant and take away

Experience the authentic taste of Rajasthan at R.R Hotel Bar Non Veg Restaurant, where grilled delights meet traditional Indian cuisine in a cozy ambiance.

4.0

Best nightclubs in Pushkar

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R.R Hotel Bar Non Veg Restaurant and take away

Savor the authentic taste of Pushkar at R.R Hotel Bar Non Veg Restaurant, known for its exquisite grilled dishes and vibrant dining experience.

4.0

Karma Club Ajmer

Discover the electrifying nightlife of Ajmer at Karma Club, a premier disco club offering vibrant music and a lively social atmosphere.

4.0

R K RESTO BEER BAR

Discover R K Resto Beer Bar in Pushkar: a perfect blend of local flavors and a relaxed atmosphere for every traveler.

4.5

Puskar wine beer shop

Discover the charm of Puskar Wine Beer Shop, the ultimate bar in Pushkar, Rajasthan, offering an exquisite selection of wines and beers in a cozy atmosphere.

4.9

Best shops in Pushkar

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Pushkar Main Market

Experience the colorful Pushkar Main Market, where tradition, craftsmanship, and local flavors come together in a vibrant shopping paradise.

4.4

Robin Silver Shop

Explore the exquisite craftsmanship of silver jewelry at Robin Silver Shop, a hidden gem in the heart of Pushkar, Rajasthan.

4.4

Sanjay Handicraft pushkar

Discover the rich artistry of Rajasthan at Sanjay Handicraft in Pushkar, where every piece tells a story of tradition and creativity.

4.2

Parvati Print And Gift Gallery

Explore the essence of Rajasthan at Parvati Print And Gift Gallery, where unique gifts and authentic handicrafts await your discovery.

5.0

Explore Pushkar on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Pushkar, mapped for you.

Pushkar Essentials

Pushkar is located in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan, India. The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport, approximately 150 kilometers away. From Jaipur, you can take a taxi or a bus to Pushkar, which usually takes around 3 hours by road. Alternatively, you can take a train to Ajmer Railway Station, which is about 15 kilometers from Pushkar. From Ajmer, local buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws are available for the short drive to Pushkar.
Once in Pushkar, the town is small enough to explore on foot. Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are popular and affordable ways to get around. For longer distances, taxis are available. Renting a scooter or a bicycle can be a convenient option for those who prefer more flexibility. Be aware that traffic can be chaotic, so always stay alert and follow local traffic rules.
The official currency in India is the Indian Rupee (INR). While credit and debit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and street vendors. ATMs are available in Pushkar, but it's wise to withdraw a sufficient amount of cash beforehand, especially during festivals when ATMs may run out of money.
Pushkar is generally safe for tourists, but it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone late at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places, such as markets and festivals. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, scams and petty theft can occur. Stay vigilant and be cautious of unsolicited offers or overly friendly strangers.
In case of an emergency, dial 100 for police assistance and 108 for medical emergencies. Pushkar has a local police station and several medical facilities. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes before entering temples. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Namaste,' a respectful gesture involving a slight bow with hands pressed together. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Pushkar like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy traditional Rajasthani goods and handicrafts. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss the Pushkar Camel Fair if you're visiting in November, as it offers a unique blend of cultural and animal trading events. For a serene experience, take a walk around Pushkar Lake at sunrise or sunset.

When is the best time to visit Pushkar?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Pushkar

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Pushkar. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloनमस्ते
  [Namaste]
- Goodbyeअलविदा
  [Alvida]
- Yesहां
  [Haan]
- Noनहीं
  [Nahi]
- Please/You're welcomeकृपया
  [Kripya]
- Thank youधन्यवाद
  [Dhanyavad]
- Excuse me/Sorryमाफ़ कीजिए
  [Maaf kijiye]
- How are you?आप कैसे हैं?
  [Aap kaise hain?]
- Fine. And you?ठीक हूँ। आप सुनाइए।
  [Theek hoon. Aap sunaiye.]
- Do you speak English?क्या आप अंग्रेज़ी बोलते हैं?
  [Kya aap angrezi bolte hain?]
- I don't understandमैं समझा नहीं
  [Main samjha nahi]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseकृपया मेनू दिखाइए
  [Kripya menu dikhaiye]
- I don't eat meatमैं मांस नहीं खाता
  [Main maans nahi khata]
- Cheers!चियर्स!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseकृपया मैं भुगतान करना चाहूँ
  [Kripya main bhugtan karna chaahoon]
- Help!बचाओ!
  [Bachao!]
- Go away!चले जाओ!
  [Chale jao!]
- Call the Police!पुलिस को बुलाओ!
  [Police ko bulao!]
- Call a doctor!डॉक्टर को बुलाओ!
  [Doctor ko bulao!]
- I'm lostमैं खो गया हूँ
  [Main kho gaya hoon]
- I'm illमुझे बीमारी है
  [Mujhe bimari hai]
- I'd like to buy...मैं खरीदना चाहूंगा...
  [Main khareedna chahunga...]
- I'm just lookingमैं बस देख रहा हूँ
  [Main bas dekh raha hoon]
- How much is it?यह कितना है?
  [Yeh kitna hai?]
- That's too expensiveयह बहुत महंगा है
  [Yeh bahut mehnga hai]
- Can you lower the price?क्या आप कीमत कम कर सकते हैं?
  [Kya aap keemat kam kar sakte hain?]
- What time is it?अब कितने बजे हैं?
  [Ab kitne baje hain?]
- It's one o'clockएक बज रहा है
  [Ek baj raha hai]
- Half past (10)दस बजे बीस मिनट बाद
  [Das baje bees minute baad]
- Morningसुबह
  [Subah]
- Afternoonदोपहर
  [Dopahar]
- Eveningशाम
  [Shaam]
- Yesterdayकल
  [Kal]
- Todayआज
  [Aaj]
- Tomorrowकल
  [Kal]
- 1एक
  [Ek]
- 2दो
  [Do]
- 3तीन
  [Teen]
- 4चार
  [Char]
- 5पांच
  [Paanch]
- 6छह
  [Chhah]
- 7सात
  [Saath]
- 8आठ
  [Aath]
- 9नौ
  [Nau]
- 10दस
  [Das]
- Where's a/the...?एक/यहाँ... कहाँ है?
  [Ek/Yahaan... kahan hai?]
- What's the address?पता क्या है?
  [Pata kya hai?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?क्या आप मुझे दिखा सकते हैं (नक्शे पर)?
  [Kya aap mujhe dikhha sakte hain (naksha par)?]
- When's the next (bus)?अगली (बस) कब है?
  [Agli (bus) kab hai?]
- A ticket (to ....)एक टिकट (...के लिए)
  [Ek ticket (...ke liye)]

History of Pushkar

Pushkar is often associated with Hindu mythology. According to legend, the town was created when Lord Brahma, the god of creation, dropped a lotus flower to the earth. The flower landed in Pushkar, creating the Pushkar Lake. This lake is considered one of the most sacred lakes in India, and it is surrounded by numerous temples and ghats (steps leading to the water).
Pushkar has been mentioned in various ancient texts and inscriptions, indicating its historical importance. It served as a significant trade center during ancient times. The town's strategic location on the trade route contributed to its prosperity and prominence in the region.
One of the most famous cultural events in Pushkar is the Pushkar Fair, also known as Pushkar Camel Fair. This annual event, which takes place in November, is one of the world's largest livestock fairs. It attracts thousands of tourists and pilgrims who come to witness the livestock trading, camel races, traditional music, dance performances, and other cultural activities.
Pushkar is home to several architectural marvels, including the Brahma Temple, which is one of the few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma in the world. The temple's distinctive red spire and the image of a swan (Brahma's vehicle) are notable features. Other significant temples include the Savitri Temple, which offers panoramic views of the town, and the Varaha Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his boar incarnation.
During the British colonial period, Pushkar retained its religious and cultural significance. The British recognized the town's importance and respected its sacred status. This era also saw an influx of European travelers and scholars who documented and studied the town's rich history and culture.
In contemporary times, Pushkar has evolved into a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the globe. Despite modernization, the town has managed to preserve its traditional charm and spiritual essence. The vibrant markets, bustling with handicrafts, jewelry, and textiles, add to the town's allure.