A spiritual town with plenty of fun and entertainment, Pushkar is a quaint town located in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan. Famous for the sacred lake, ancient temples, colourful bazaars and iconic camel fairs, this is one town that has amazing charm which pulls back the backpackers and the locals from all around the world. Pushkar promises something for the spiritual seeker; the devotee; the traveler seeking cultural immersion; or just the person looking for a peaceful escape. The best things to do in Pushkar are featured here in a detailed manner.

Visit the Sacred Pushkar Lake

The Pushkar Lake is at the heart of Pushkar; it is a serene, sacred water body with 52 ghats. Hindu mythology says that Lord Brahma himself created the lake. Believing that it is the way of piety for sins to be washed and salvation to be gained, pilgrims come here to take a holy dip.

Walking around the ghats is an adventure just by itself: priests perform their rituals, devotees pray and there’s a sense of calm. You won’t forget the mystical atmosphere the calmness of the lake creates, much less during sunrise and sunset.

They can offer prayers at the Brahma Temple

One of the very few temples that exist in the world dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe as per the Hindu beliefs, is in Pushkar. Jagatpita Brahma Mandir is special because of its red spire and marble construction.

On the inside, there is the idol of Lord Brahma with his consort Gayatri in life size. There is an illuminating experience in visiting because of the vibrant religious energy, rhythmic chanting of mantras, and spiritual ambiance.

Tip: Wear footwear; leather items are not allowed inside the temple premises.

Pushkar Bazaar has one bazaar full of colour

The Pushkar Bazaar is a riot of colours and a paradise for shoppers. You will find handicrafts and jewellery, textiles, leather goods and much more. Colourful bangles, silver ornaments, tie-dye garments and especially Rajasthani embroidery are also popular.

To think it’s just shopping when the narrow lanes of the market are filled with the liveliness of Pushkar — the smell of the incense, the sounds of the temple bells and the bunch of colours flying through here and there from the everlasting murals.

Pro tip: If bargaining is quite common there, don’t hesitate to be the pushy customer!

Attend the Pushkar Camel Fair

Visiting in late October or November will be a treat. Pushkar Camel Fair (Pushkar Mela) is one of the famous cultural festivals of India. Originally a livestock trading event, it has turned into an overall festival of Rajasthani culture.

You can expect to see thousands of camels, decorated with Art Deco decorations, and cattle; folk performances; turban- tying competitions; camel races; and a vibrant rural carnival atmosphere. This is one of the best times to experience a traditional life of Rajasthan in its fullness.

The lively festival will be an endless source of inspiration for photography enthusiasts and cultural explorers.

Visit Savitri Temple for a Panoramic View

The Savitri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Savitri, wife of Lord Brahma, is the temple which is located on a hill jutting out of the city overlooking Pushkar. The walk to the temple entails a relatively steep walk up a set of stairs, but your reward should be to look out and adore the vistas of Pushkar town and its neighbouring desert scene.

There is also a ropeway for those who find an easier ascent more suitable. The most breathtaking scenes come from visiting in the golden light of sunrise or sunset when the lake glistens and the town is all bathed in beautiful oranges and pinks.

You will enjoy a spiritual aarti at the ghats

The ghats around Pushkar Lake are filled with the sound of bells and chants every evening during the evening aarti (prayer ceremony). Priests light lamps and say prayers towards the sacred lake; it is beautiful to watch the oil pool echoing in the water.

By the time the aarti is over, a fierce yet extremely peaceful air has taken over, and while people of all religions can visit Ganga, it's a really powerful moment of their spirituality coming together.

Take a camel safari in the desert

Going on a camel safari into the Thar Desert surrounding Pushkar is an integral part of nature in the town. Alternatively, you can take short rides in surrounding areas or take longer safaris, which also include the chance of viewing the sunset or even spending the night in desert camps.

While you walk on the golden dunes sitting on a camel, you can see the rustic beauty of Rajasthan. Music and dance performances in the form of traditional Rajasthani music and dance provide both the desert experience and the atmosphere at the camps.

Tip: Make sure to go on your trip with a reputable tour operator, so as not to endanger the animals nor necessarily yourself.

Explore Varaha Temple

The Varaha Temple is another important religious place in Pushkar which houses the boar incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Less famous than the Brahma Temple, the Varaha Temple is architecturally interesting and of historical importance.

There is a striking feature of the large idol of Lord Varaha and a general peaceful atmosphere makes for a nice retreat from the busier parts of Pushkar.

Enjoy Yoga and Meditation Retreats

Throughout history, Pushkar has lured spiritual seekers, and these days the town is a yoga and meditation hotbed. Asharams or centers provide classes and retreats that can last a few days to a few weeks.

If you are an experienced practitioner or a beginner, taking your yoga sessions to the lakeside or serene ashram courtyards is a definite part of your Pushkar journey.

Among its popular spots are Sri Santosh Puri Ashram and Pushkar Yoga Garden.

Savor the Flavors of Pushkar

However, the food scene in Pushkar is rich and diverse even if it is a vegetarian town. Things not to be missed are some culinary experiences such:

Malpua: A sweet pancake, especially famous here.

Falafel and hummus: Thanks to a significant Israeli traveler influence.

Street foods like kachoris, samosas, and poha.

Café culture: Try some of Pushkar’s rooftop cafes for great coffee, organic meals, and beautiful lake views. The Laughing Buddha Cafe and the Cafe Nature’s Blessing are especially popular places.

Pushkar's food is a perfect mixture of local Rajasthani flavor and worldwide preference.

Discover Hidden Temples and Ashrams

In addition to the main attractions Pushkar hides a few small but lesser known and peaceful ashrams in its lanes. Some quiet corners can be explored to connect the spiritual vibe of the town deeper.

A few visiting places are the Gayatri Mata Temple, Apteshwar Temple, and Pap Mochani Temple among others. They all have their own story and atmosphere with a quiet beauty that seldom grabs attention of mainstream tourists.

Attend Local Cultural Events

Throughout the year, Pushkar hosts various cultural events and fairs. Apart from Camel Fair, Holi, Diwali and Kartik Purnima are celebrated with great enthusiasm.

Holi is full of colors, music and dancing wherein the entire town gets into the riot of all colors. Participation at such celebrations provides a lively and memorable piece of local life.

Conclusion

Pushkar is not only a place of spirituality but also a place where soul makes way into nature and culture; the timeless way of life. Whatever brings you to the town, praying at the temples, shopping for colorful handicrafts, camel riding into the sunset, or losing yourself in the pulse of the town, Pushkar has moments that run in the mind long after you left.

Pushkar is a destination that attracts all kinds of travelers because of its ability to be lively and serene, traditional and eclectic. The mystical charms of Pushkar is something you cannot afford to miss, and so go ahead, pack your bags, and open your heart to be astonished at the serenity, that this land will nourish in your soul.