Pushkar

Pushkar, a small temple town, is located around 15 km from Ajmer in Rajasthan. Every November, Pushkar is host to the Pushkar Mela, one of the biggest camel fairs in the country. Perfect choice for a weekend getaway from Jaipur, Pushkar is located amid Aravali ranges. Known for the world's only dedicated Brahma temple, Pushkar is primarily a pilgrimage site for Hindus.

Spend some evenings sitting at the ghats while sipping chai or taking a stroll through narrow alleys while listening to the chants from temples surrounding the ghats. A delight for street-shopping lovers, Pushkar has shops in the main street selling everything from silver oxidised jewellery to merchandise swaddled in various colours.

The Pushkar Mela attracts millions of visitors from around the world. With folk performances, rides, stalls and even magic shows, the entire town is lit up, music blares from every house, and everyone is in a festive mood. Pushkar has slowly evolved from a religious destination to a multi-cultural hotspot with travellers from all over the world.

History of Pushkar
The history of Pushkar can be traced back to ancient times. The microliths found near Khera and Kedari are a strong example of human existence in the region during the prehistoric era. Apart from this, this place also holds a great significance as per the Hindu Mythology. One of the mythological stories still is very prevalent in the region - it happened so that once, a battle was fought between Lord Brahma and Demon Vajra Nabh.

In the battle, Lord Brahma ultimately killed the demon using lotus as his weapon. But, three petals of the lotus flower fell in different parts of Pushkar. It is believed that where these petals fell, three lakes emerged. One of the lakes is believed to be the Pushkar Lake which is surrounded by ghats and temples and is also considered as a pilgrimage site for Hindu devotees.

Major Attractions in and Around Pushkar

1. Pushkar Fair
Here, you will be finding the right combination of colours, fun, spectacle blended right into one. This fair sees plenty of livestock, farmers, traders and villagers from all across the state. You also get to witness amazing cultural performances as well as camel processions.

2. Mahadeva Temple
This temple must be on your travel list if you want to experience something truly divine. The Mahadeva Temple is not only a source of spiritual knowledge but also takes you through the scintillating history of this place.

3. Pushkar Lake
Pushkar Lake is situated near the temple of Lord Brahma. If mythological stories are to be believed, then this is the place where Lord Brahma and Goddess Savitri offered their prayers. Furthermore, it is also believed that a dip in this holy river can help you attain Moksha.

4. Meera Temple
You can go and visit the Meera temple which is considered to be about 400 years old. The temple is situated in Merta City, interestingly this place is considered as the birthplace of Meera Bai. Apart from Meera Temple, Dadhimati Temple and Charbhuja Temple also attract a large number of devotees, annually.

5. Rose Garden
You can also pay Rose Garden a visit when in Pushkar, as it is here where farmers grow a variety of roses extensively. The sight of blooming flowers and the soothing fragrance of it would simply leave you feeling happy and at peace.