Pushkar is famous for the holy lake of Pushkar and Brahma Temple. But the Pushkar Camel Festival attracts lakhs of pilgrims, travellers, tourists and photographers from all over the world. The Pushkar Fair, also known as Pushkar Camel Fair or Karthik Mela, is one of the largest camel fairs in the world held in Pushkar in Rajasthan. Pushkar Mela is held every year from Karthik Ekadashi to Karthik Poornima (generally in November).
This 100-year-old Camel festival reflects the vibrant culture of Rajasthan through gorgeous events and activities. You will be amazed after knowing the versatility of this festival. Starting from the famous trading of camel, horse, buffalo to the various cultural events & competitions like Matkaphod, moustache competition, bridal competition, camel race, cultural evening, turban tying and the list is never-ending.
Pushkar Lake: Pushkar lake is 2km away from the bus stand. One can take a walk through the ghats of holy Pushkar lake and enjoy the beauty.
Brahma Temple: This temple in Pushkar is one of the very few existing temples dedicated to Lord Brahma. This temple is nicely built with white marble and stone slabs.
Top attractions of the Pushkar Fair:
This week-long fair is literally different in flavour from other fairs of India. Here is a brief guide for the top attractions of Pushkar Fair.
1. Harmony marathon: Pushkar Fair is started with a harmony marathon from Dargah Shareef in Ajmer to Brahma Temple in Pushkar. Thousands of people take part, and you can also be a part of it.
2. Trading of livestock: The age-old relation and interdependence between humans and livestock can be experienced in this fair where the locals gather to buy sell their livestock (camels, horses, cows, buffalos etc.).
3. Shilpgram Bazar: If you are fascinated by traditional handicrafts, then this place will surely attract you. Traditionally handcrafted jewellery, colourful paintings, Rajasthani puppets, embroidered fabrics, bangles, decorative items, bags and many more things you can take and have lifelong memory.
4. Enjoy the Adventure: Are you an adventurous person; well, this Pushkar festival won’t leave you empty-handed. One of the most thrilling activities in Pushkar Fair is the hot balloon ride, and one can experience an amazing aerial view of the whole place. Paramotoring, quad biking, camel safari can also give you a thrill.
5. Photography contest: If you are passionate about photography, then Pushkar Fair is heaven for you. This fair is also known as a fair for the photographers. Thousands of photographers around the world come to capture the vibrant colour of this festival. Pushkar Fair offers a great way to capture the rural life of Rajasthan. This is an excellent time for anyone to witness the culture, people, traditions, rituals of the real Rajasthan. You can participate in ‘Frame The Fair’ photography contest organized by Rajasthan Tourism and show your photography skill to others.
6. Exciting events: Events and competitions like moustache competition, bridal competition, Matka race, turban tying, camel race, and a long list of events occur throughout Pushkar Fair. The exciting thing is that you can also participate and make memories apart from just watching these events.
How to reach:
1. Pushkar is located 12 km from Ajmer and 140 km from Jaipur by road.
2. Ajmer is the nearest railway station and well connected with all the major cities of India.
3. Jaipur is the nearest airport that connects all the major cities of India.
Best time to visit:
1. Pushkar Fair is held from Karthik Ekadashi to Karthik Poornima (generally in November).
2. If you want to visit Pushkar, then you can travel at any time. But try to avoid the summer season.
Conclusion: No doubt, Pushkar Fair is one of the most culturally gorgeous fairs in India. From the famous trading of livestock to various colourful events, everything at this fair will mesmerize you. Even you can also take part in these exciting events. You should not miss such an incredible experience. What is your favourite moment about this fair?