Pushkar does not need any introduction for the glory, history and culture that it exhibits. One of the ancient cities of the country, located in Ajmer, it has been largely known for its religious significance as the city boasts of one of the very rare temples of Lord Brahma(Hindu god). The annual cattle fair, the holy lake, a handful of adventure activities, and endless emotions to capture on camera — Pushkar has it all for any avid traveler. Just before we introduce you to an exclusive list of places to visit in Pushkar, here are a few essentials you must note.
20 Best Places To Visit In Pushkar
Best time to visit Pushkar is during the months of October – November. This is the time when the famous Pushkar mela aka Pushkar Camel Fair comes to town, and also the weather is nicer during these months. Here are some of the top places to visit in Pushkar, Rajasthan that you must not miss:
1. Pushkar Lake Banks
Yes, the famous fair takes place at the banks of Pushkar Lake and is organized by Pushkar tourism every year. Colours, spectacle and a carnival — one of the last great traditional melas in India, Pushkar Fair brings livestock, farmers, traders and villagers from all over Rajasthan together. This fair is an excuse to experience the shades of rural India in its most organic form wherein one can interact with villagers, and buy Rajasthani handicrafts.
The fair is one of the best places to see in Pushkar since it attracts crowd in huge numbers. The fair also organises a plethora of animal races, camel processions and cultural performances. Further, it has recently become a popular attraction among hippies and foreign tourists. Without a doubt, it is one of the best tourist places in Pushkar.
When: In October- November; the celebrations and festivities conclude on the full moon of Kartika month
Major attractions: Animal trading, horse and camel races, cultural performances, processions, camel safaris, hot air ballooning
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2. Mahadeva Temple
Pushkar is one of the best places to visit in Rajasthan and one of the most prominent cities in India that is known for its amazing temples. The city boasts of several temples worth visiting. These temples not only provide a spiritual getaway but also take one through the history lanes of this ancient city. One such temple is the Mahadeva Temple which is amongst the famous Pushkar tourist places. Constructed in the 19th century, the Mahadeva Temple in Pushkar is one of the most visited places in the town. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva as its main deity and has a white marble statue of him in the inside. Polished flooring and wonderful wall paintings are a highlight of this temple. Another major highlight of its architecture is the embossed pink pillars.
Location: Main Market Rd, Pushkar, India
Things to do: Visit the temples during the darshan timings and participate in the magical celebrations during aarti.
Opening hours: 5:00 am to 1:30 pm, all days
Entry: Free
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3. Pushkar Lake
Pushkar Lake is closest to the temple of God Brahma and one of the most serene places to see in Pushkar. As per mythology, this place is where Brahma and Savitri offered their prayers. It is believed that a dip in this holy river is the harbinger of Moksha — freedom from birth. The lake has several ghats, designed especially for taking baths and offering prayers. Brahma Ghat is the most famous among many others like Varaha, Dadhich, Saptarishi, Gwalior, Kota, Gau, Yag, Jaipur, Karni and Gangaur Ghat.
Things to do: Offer prayers at the ghats and get a pooja done for the ancestors; participate in aarti, photography
Opening hours: Open all the day
Entry: Free
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4. Merta
Merta is almost 400 years old and has been famous for Meera Temple — the Krishna devotee. Previously known as Medantak, this city happens to be the birthplace of Meera Bai and this connection has kept it among the popular places to visit in Pushkar. Dadhimati Temple and Charbhuja Temple, located here, also attract a large number of devotees round the year. This city also holds a lot of historical significance owing to the large number of battles it has witnessed and hence, is among popular places to visit in Pushkar. if you are visiting places in Pushkar, make sure it is one of them.
Things to do: Visit the famous Raj palace and temples — attend aarti at Charbhuja Temple
Opening hours: Sunrise to sunset, Mangla aarti at Charbhuja Temple takes place between 5:30 am to 6:30 am
Entry: Free
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5. Naga Pahar
Pushkar and Ajmer are divided by a hill — known as Naga Pahar. As per the legends, the hills at Naga Pahar continue to diminish till date and will eventually disappear totally. These hills are believed to be the residence of the famous Sage Agastya. The hills also house a lake called Nag Kund. Naga Pahar offers a spectacular view of Pushkar city from its top and has often been used as a vantage point for photographers. It is one of the best Pushkar places to visit for a memorable holiday.
Things to do: Photography, small trekking, spiritual walks
Opening hours: Open all day
Entry: Free
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6. Rose Garden
Surprisingly, Pushkar is also known for its rose farming. It is referred as the Rose Garden of Rajasthan. The farmers, here, grow rose extensively and the diversities of this flower grown here, are exported all over the world. There are acres of farm lands with beautiful red roses in different hues spreading the fragrance — enchanting enough to make one crave to sit and spend some rosy time. Visit these famous Pushkar tourist places for a memorable holiday with your closed ones.
Things to do: Sit, unwind and relax amidst the mesmerizing fragrance of roses
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7. Sarafa Bazar
Image Credit: Suketdedhia for Pixabay
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
Think Rajasthan and you get colors. Sarafa Bazar is one of the best tourist places in Pushkar. The markets here are a perfect ambassador of Rajasthani handicrafts, textile, jewellery and leather products. From trinkets to turban – the markets like Sarafa Bazar and Bada Bazar have it all that has been fascinating tourists from all across the globe.
The embroidered Rajasthani clothes, wall hangings, handicrafts are something that one can’t afford to miss. So, if you missed anything from the shopping places in Jaipur, you could buy from here.
Opening hours: 9:00 am till late night
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8. Kishangarh
Even around Pushkar, places to visit are many. A municipality on the outskirts of Pushkar, Kishangarh is famous for its magnificent forts and marble mines. The Phool Mahal and Roopangarh Fort here are a peep into the rich history of this region. The marble mines in Kishangarh are also worth visiting as they help you understand the processes involved behind those marble slabs in your home.
Things to do: Shop for marble made décor items, visit the forts that have, now, been restored into hotels
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9. Man Mahal
Built by Amber’s Raja Man Singh, this beautiful palace is located close to the Pushkar sarovar. The palace is built in traditional Rajasthani architecture and has a temple inside. The palace is maintained by the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation and is used as a tourist bungalow. The key attractions for tourists are breathtaking sunset views of the lakes and temples around. Camel riding and camping arrangements can be made on request for guests. Man Mahal is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Rajasthan in January.
Things to do: Admire the scenic views of Pushkar and the evening aarti, go on a camel or a camel cart ride
Opening hours: All day
Entry: Free
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10. Brahma’s Temple
Situated near the Pushkar Lake, this is one of few temples of Brahma that now exist in India. Also known as the Jagatpita Brahma Mandir, the temple was built in the 14th century. The temple has been built with marble and stone and features a red pinnacle. The walls are decorated with bird motifs. Images of Brahma has been placed in the sanctum sanctorum. A unique tradition which is followed here is that this place is reserved only for ascetics or sanyasis and married men are not allowed to enter the sanctum sanctorum. The architectural beauty of this temple is simply amazing, especially the pillared outdoor hall and the numerous marble steps leading to the temple. The temple can be visited throughout the year but October and November are the most important months with a festival dedicated to Lord Brahma.
Location: Brahma Temple Rd, Ganahera, Pushkar, Rajasthan 305022
Opening hours: 5:00 am to 1:30 pm, all days
Entry: Free
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11. Varaha Temple
Varaha Temple is one of the largest and the oldest temples in Pushkar. The temple is dedicated to Varaha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu as a boar. Constructed in the 12th century, this temple is an architectural wonder. Varaha Temple was destructed the then Mughal ruler, Aurangzeb as he was offended by the depiction of the body of a man with the head of a boar in the temple. In 1727, the temple was restored by Raja Sawai Jai Singh II.
Location: Main Market, Pushkar, Rajasthan 305022
Opening hours: 5:00 am to 1:30 pm, all days
Entry: Free
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12. Savitri Mata Temple
Constructed in 1687, the Savitri Mata Temple is situated on the Ratnagiri Hill and is one of the popular Pushkar places to visit. It is believed to be the place where Goddess Savitri found some rest after revolting with her husband on marrying another woman.
The temple is said to be built by her and it served as a lookout from where she could watch her husband’s moves. The temple homes the idols of Goddesses Savitri and Gayatri. The way to the temple passes through the hills so you can trek to the temple through the Ratnagiri Hill. This journey also has a religious significant as it is considered to be a penance of our sins.
Location: Kharekhari Rd, Pushkar, Rajasthan 305022
Opening hours: 5:00 am to 1:30 pm, all days
Entry: Free
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13. Rangji Temple
Rangji Temple is one of the newest temples in the town and was constructed in 1823 under the guidance of Seth Puran Mal Ganeriwal. A major highlight of this temple is its South Indian architecture, especially the high gopuram. The temple is dedicated to Lord Rangii who is related to Lord Vishnu. The temple also features other architectural styles including the Rajput and Mughal. The temple is located near many tourist attractions of Pushkar, and you can explore them on a bicycle.
Location: Pushkar, Rajasthan 305022
Opening hours: 5:00 am to 1:30 pm, all days
Entry: Free
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14. Gurudwara Sahib Pushkar
Pushkar is a place of many faiths where you will find temples, gurudwara, and majar. Gurudwara Sahib Pushkar is one of the holy places to visit in Pushkar that is located right in the centre of the city. It is believed that this is where Guru Gobind Singh and Guru Nanak Dev rested while they made a stop in Pushkar. This is why this place holds great importance and respect in people’s hearts. You will feel serenity and peace in the premises of Gurudwara.
Location: opp. Indian Overseas Bank, Pushkar, Rajasthan 305022
Timings: Open 24 hours
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15. Gayatri Mata Temple
Gayatri Mata Temple is one of the must-visit places to see in Pushkar as this temple has a connection with Lord Brahma. According to mythology, when Lord Brahma married an untouchable girl Savitri in the absence of Gayatri, he was cursed by his wife that he will never be worshipped anywhere else except Pushkar. So, this is the reason why Lord Brahma and Gayatri Mata are worshipped as a couple in this temple. It is only a short walk from Lord Brahma Temple.
Location: Pushkar, Rajasthan 305022
Timings: 7 AM – 8 PM
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16. Varaha Ghat
Pushkar Lake is so large that it has various ghats that offer unique views. Varah Ghat is one of the must places to visit in pushkar as it is where the beautiful evening aarti takes place. You may have enjoyed Ganga Aarti by the river but wait till you enjoy aarti by the lake. It is so serene and invigorating. You will feel your heart overwhelmed with joy and peace.
Location: Main Market Rd, Choti Basti, Pushkar, Rajasthan 305022
Timings: Open 24 hours
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17. Gau Ghat
Gau Ghat is one of the 52 ghats of the lake and also one of the most beautiful places to visit in Pushkar. The ghat is mainly famous for performing rituals and holy ceremonies. It is also where the ashes of Mahatma Gandhi, Jawahar Lal Nehru and Lal Bahadur Shastri were scattered. So, you might be in the presence of the spirits of influential men. The serene and holy ambience of this place will blow your mind anyway.
Location: Main Market Rd, Badi Basti, Pushkar, Rajasthan 305022
Timings: Open 24 hours
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18. The Laughing Buddha Cafe
Since Pushkar is also a famous backpacking destination, you will find a myriad of cafes offering salubrious food and satisfying your soul with the appetizing flavours of Rajasthani dishes is certainly one of the best things to do in Pushkar. When you feel hungry while visiting places in Pushkar, find your way to Lord Buddha vegan Cafe where you will enjoy food of various kinds. The vegan preparation from fresh produce will leave your heart happy and your stomach full.
Location: Main Market Rd, near Gau Ghat Entrance, Badi Basti, Pushkar, Rajasthan 305022
Timings: 9:30 AM – 10:30 PM
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19. Pushkar Bazaar
Image Credit: Anupamg for Wikimedia Commons
A trip remains incomplete without heading to its local market for some souvenir shopping. So, if Pushkar is your nect destination then make sure that you head to its namesake market where you will find several locals selling handicrafts, bags, souvenirs, and colorful clothes that represent Rajasthani culture. One of the unique things to buy here is rose pulp and gulkand. Moreover, you will find a lot of leather products that are made from camel skin. Make sure that you traverse through the lanes of Pushkar Bazaar as it is one of the top places to visit in Pushkar.
Location: Pushkar Bazaar, Rajasthan
Timings: Anytime
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20. Apteshwar Temple
Image Credit: Rihab27 for Pixabay
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
The list of the best places to visit in Pushkar also contains Apteshwar Temple that is dedicated to Lord Mahadev or Shiva. It is believed that this underground shrine was built in the 12th century and later sunk in the ground. It holds a great significance among the locals which is why the temple is always buzzing with devotees all round the year. They come with offerings like milk, bel (leaves), and other things to seek god’s blessings.
Location: Pushkar, Rajasthan
Timings: 6:30 am to 8:30 pm
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Where To Stay In Pushkar?
Pushkar offers some of the most luxurious and variety of accommodations in Rajasthan. Here are some of the best resorts in Pushkar for every budget:
For luxury stays: Aaram Bagh, Pushkar Resort
For budget stays: Hotel Lake View, Hotel Lake Palace
How To Reach Pushkar
Ajmer is the nearest railway station (11 km) — Pink City Express and Shatabdi Express are the best trains to opt for while traveling to Ajmer from Delhi and Jaipur. There are direct buses between Pushkar and Ajmer (30 minutes, INR 20), Jaipur (3 hours, INR 220-410), Udaipur (6 hours, INR 450), and night buses to Delhi (10 hours, INR 400-850). It is only 147 km by road from Jaipur. Its easy accessibility from Delhi makes it one of the best budget trips in India.
Getting Around In Pushkar: Not that large a city, Pushkar can be easily navigated on foot. The tour operators, here, organise walks and spiritual tours. One can also rent a bike and explore the areas around. Camel Safari is another good option to explore the holy city.
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No doubt, the Annual Camel Fair attracts the major part of the crowd visiting Pushkar but the other best places to visit in Pushkar are equally fascinating. Do plan a trip to Pushkar and experience the best of Rajasthani traditions and culture.
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Frequently Asked Questions Related To Places To Visit In Pushkar
Which are the best places to visit in Pushkar at night?
Pushkar Lake, Rangji Temple, Market Square, Sadar Bazaar, Brahma Temple, Temple Road, Varah Ghat, Adventure Desert Camp, etc. are the popular places to visit in Pushkar during late hours.
What is Pushkar famous for?
Pushkar is located in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan and is famous around the country for the annual Pushkar Camel Fair. Other than that, the place has many temples, ghats, and exotic cafes which one can explore.
Is it safe to visit Pushkar during Covid times?
You need to follow all the mandatory safety guidelines mentioned by the authorities to ensure a safe travel experience. Remain masked while stepping out of the hotel and maintain social distance. Avoid visiting crowded places and keep sanitizing your hands after touching surfaces.
When is the best time to visit Pushkar?
The best time to visit Pushkar is between November and March. During this time, the weather is pleasant and perfect for day-long desert safaris.
What is the ideal duration to stay in Pushkar?
An ideal trip for a holiday in Pushkar is 2 days. There is no scarcity of tourist places in Pushkar. The place is sure to impress you with its charm.
What are some of the amazing things to do in Pushkar?
Some of the amazing things to do in Pushkar are –
1. Camel and jeep safari
2. Camping
3. Food walk tour
4. Paintball
Can you drink alcohol in Pushkar?
Since Pushkar is a holy town, drinking alcohol within the town is not allowed. However, there are certain restaurants and cafes which offer alcoholic beverages and most of these are located on the outskirts of Pushkar.
Is Ola available in Pushkar?
Yes, Ola cabs are available in Pushkar. Tourists can also book Meru cab and savaari taxi services for traveling in and around Pushkar.
What are the best places to visit in Pushkar?
The following are the popular tourist places in Pushkar - Pushkar Lake Banks, Mahadeva Temple, Pushkar Lake, Merta, Naga Pahar, Rose Garden, Sarafa Bazar, Kishangarh, Man Mahal, Brahma’s Temple, Varaha Temple, and more.
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