Pushkar

This idyllic township housing the sacred lake of Pushkar, lies 11 km from Ajmer. Pushkar is separated from Ajmer, by the Nag Pahar (Snake Mountain). This beautiful lake surrounded by bathing ghats, has its religious significance, rooted in a myth. A lovely and gigantic fair is held every year, on Kartik Poornima (full moon in October-November when the Pushkar Fair is also held). About 1,00,000 pilgrims gather here, to take a dip in the holy lake. The fair is also the biggest camel market. Besides camels, horses and bullocks are also traded here. The colourfully dressed people enhance the exuberant mood of the fair. Pushkar abounds in temples, the special attraction being, the temple of Lord Brahma, the only temple in India, dedicated to Brahma.

This somewhat somnolent town, reverberates with hectic activity during the festivities. Extensive arrangements are made to cope with the large attendance. A host of cultural programmes are staged to enthrall the audience. The biggest draws of the events, are the cattle auction and the camel race. Puppet shows are the other major crowd - pullers.

Places to visit

Savitri Temple
This is a temple dedicated to Lord Brahma's first wife. It is located on the hill behind the Brahma temple, and one has to climb a long series of steps to reach the destination. It gives a panoramic view of the lake and surrounding sand dunes.

Man Mahal
Built by Raja Man Singh I of Amer, the palace stands on the banks of the Pushkar, and is now known as the RTDC Hotel Sarovar, the most convenient place for visitors to stay.

How to Get There

Air : Jaipur (146 km) is the nearest airport.

Rail : Ajmer (11 km) is the nearest railhead.

RTDC Hotel Sarovar, Peacock Holiday Resort (Tel : 72093), Hotel Pushkar Palace (Tel : 72001)