Pushkar Lake or Pushkar Sarovar is a sacred lake located in the holy city of Pushkar in the Indian state of Rajasthan. The Pushkar Lake is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus and thus is visited by many devotees and tourists throughout the year. Pushkar is a spiritual city located near the town of Ajmer in Rajasthan. Famous for its divine temples, serene ghats, and holy aura, Pushkar City is of great significance, both religiously and historically. A tiny city surrounded by lakes and temples, Pushkar provides an enchanting experience to its visitors. The rich culture, traditions, heritage, and ancient mythological temples make Pushkar a right mix of mysticism, religious fervour, and beauty. Pack your bags and set out on a spiritual journey to explore Pushkar and the Lake.
Pushkar Lake In Pushkar City
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The Pushkar Lake in Pushkar City is described as Tirtha-guru in the Hindu mythological scriptures. The Lake is said to be related to the Hindu God, The Creator of the world- Lord Brahma, and thus holds a significant place in the hearts of Hindu pilgrims and devotees. According to the most significant version of the Hindu mythological legend, Lord Brahma saw a demon named Vajranabha killing and harassing people. He immediately killed the demon with his weapon- The Lotus Flower. In the process, lotus petals fell on the ground at three distinct places, giving rise to three lakes, now known as The Pushkar Lake, The Madya Pushkar, and the Kanishta Pushkar. It is also believed that River Saraswati emerged at Pushkar as five streams.
When Lord Brahma came down to Earth, he decided to perform a yajna at the main Lake. His wife Savitri could not be present for the yajna at the designated time, so Lord Brahma married Gayatri and made her sit beside him as his consort for the holy yajna at the Lake. When Savitri finally arrived, she felt deeply hurt seeing Gayatri sitting beside Lord Brahma. Agitated, she cursed Lord Brahma saying that he would be worshipped at this place (Pushkar) only, and left the place. The archaeological evidence of the existence of Pushkar Lake suggests that the Lake existed even during the 4th century. The ancient Indian scriptures of Mahabharata and Ramayana have mentioned Pushkar Lake as the Adi-Tirtha, or the Original Sacred Water body in India. The Lake is also among India’s five holy Hindu pilgrimage sites and attracts many pilgrims from all over the world.
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The Cultural Significance
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Pushkar is a small yet well-known historic and religiously significant city in Rajasthan. The city holds immense cultural and traditional values and draws many tourists from across the world. The Pushkar Lake is a mystical structure in Pushkar that attracts Hindu Devotees and pilgrims due to its ancient roots and mythological values. The scenic oval-shaped Lake is surrounded by temples, ghats, hills, and desert from all sides. About 500 temples and 52 ghats are built around the sacred Lake.
One such interesting temple is the Brahma Temple, built near Pushkar Lake. It is one of the few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma. Sage Vishwamitra is also believed to Have continued to meditate for years around the Lake, enhancing its spiritual and religious value.
The Pushkar Fair
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The Pushkar Fair is one of the lively, vibrant, and colourful celebrations around the Lake annually. The Pushkar Fair, or the Pushkar Camel Fair, witnesses the presence of over 50,000 adorned and decorated camels, which form the major attraction of the Pushkar Fair at Pushkar Lake.
The Pushkar fair is a week-long celebration and begins with the grand camel race which captivates the interest of the visitors and tourists in Pushkar. The fair offers a glimpse of the culture and vibrant heritage of Pushkar and Rajasthan. With colourful themes, decorations, folk dances, live music, a handicrafts bazaar, and delectable food stalls, the Pushkar Fair is a regal celebration, and a sight to behold that enhances the beauty of the Lake several times.
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Diving Into The Allure Of The Religious Pushkar Lake
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The Pushkar Lake is surrounded by picturesque ghats and divine temples, making it a must-visit tourist destination. The lake is also associated with the legend of Guru Gobind Singh. It is believed that the 10th Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, read the sacred book of Guru Granth Sahib near the Lake.
The Kartik month of the Hindu Lunar Calendar attracts many devotees to Pushkar. It is considered auspicious to take a holy dip in the sacred waters of the Lake during the festival of Kartik Poornima. People believe that bathing in the holy waters of the Pushkar Lake can wash away all their sins. It is also believed that the calm and peaceful waters of the sacred Lake have healing powers. A parikrama of the Lake through the ghats is an enchanting experience, especially during the evenings and sunset. The setting Sun renders a golden glow throughout the Lake, and the shimmering waters of the holy lake are surreal.
Further Read: Places To Visit In Pushkar
Now that you have a complete guide to the famous Hindu pilgrimage destination, The Pushkar Lake in the Pushkar City of Rajasthan, go ahead and plan your next trip to Rajasthan and witness the remote villages, historical marvel, desert safari, and serene spiritual destination of Pushkar. Pushkar Lake is a religious and sacred Hindu Pilgrimage site with around 52 bathing ghats and 500 divine temples, which welcomes tourists and devotees throughout the year. Soak in the natural beauty of the lake and get mesmerized by the heavenly aura that surrounds the Pushkar city. Set out on a spiritual journey to witness the allure and magic of Pushkar Lake for an enthralling experience to cherish for a lifetime. Don’t wait any further and book your tickets now.
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Cover Image Credit: Vyacheslav Argenberg for wikimedia commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Pushkar Lake
Which is the nearest airport to Pushkar Lake?
The nearest airport to Pushkar Lake is the Kishangarh Aiport, located at a distance of 29 km from the city centre. A private cab or a taxi will drop you at Pushkar Lake in about 45-50 minutes. The Jaipur Airport is located at a distance of 130 km from Pushkar, while the Jodhpur Airport is about 152 km from Pushkar Lake in Pushkar City of Rajasthan.
Which is the nearest railway station to reach Pushkar Lake in Pushkar?
The nearest major railway station to reach the Lake is located in Ajmer. The Ajmer Railway station is situated at a distance of 15 km from Pushkar. Taxis, Autos, and local buses from Ajmer Junction take about 30 minutes to reach Pushkar Lake.
Which is the best time to visit Pushkar Lake in Rajasthan?
The best time to visit Pushkar Lake in Rajasthan is from October - March. It is recommended to visit Pushkar Lake during the evenings to witness the sunset and the evening aarti which takes place at the holy ghats near the Pushkar Lake.
What are some budget-friendly and comfortable hotel accommodations near the Lake in Ajmer?
Pushkar Lake, Pushkar has some of the best hotels and lodging facilities that offer warm hospitality and a comfortable stay to its guests. Here is the list:
- Kanhaiya Haweli, Pushkar
- Hotel Vamdev Fort
- Hotel Divine Palace, Pushkar
- Hotel Pushkar Palace
- Teerth Palace Pushkar
- Hotel Leela Villas Pushkar
What are the entry fees and timings of Pushkar Lake in Rajasthan?
The Pushkar Lake in Rajasthan has no entry fees for visitors. The visitor's hours are from 9 am to 6 pm on all days.
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