Pushkar!

About 400 temples and shrines are located at Pushkar around its holy lake, which finds a mention in the Padma Purana. Legend has it that Lord Brahma in search for a spot to hold his 'yagna' (religious ritual), dropped the lotus from his hand, the three spots touched by this flower were turned into lakes. These are today known as the 'Jyeshtha Pushkar' (main Pushkar), the 'Madhyam Pushkar' (medium Pushkar) and the 'Kanishtha Pushkar' (little Pushkar). A temple dedicated to Lord Brahma is located at Pushkar; the other important temples are those of Gayatri, Savitri, Shiv and Badri Narayan. Pushkar is said to have the only temple in the world dedicated to Hindu God Brahma (the creator of the world). Pushkar is known all over for its picturesque valley, mountainous regions, uncommon scenic spots, and several pilgrimage sites of importance.Pushkar hosts the annual Camel Trade Fair in November and the flow of tourists to Pushkar increases exceptionally during the time of the camel fair. The locals here are very hospitable and they dress up with their best during this much-awaited camel fair. There is a steady flow of pilgrims throughout the year to Pushkar, which is among the five principal places of Hindu pilgrimage. It is, however transformed into a bustling fair-ground in the month of Kartik (October-November) when the annual Pushkar Fair and a cattle fair are held simultaneously. The fair starts from Kartik Shukla Ekadashi and goes on for 12 days, till Kartik Purnima. Both the religious fair and the cattle fair are now internationally renowned tourist attractions. A small fair is held in the month of Baisakh, which is primarily a local event.

• The Pushkar fair is amongst the largest cattle fairs in the world.
• Amongst the oldest cities in India, with references in mythology and the Mahabharat - Site of the only temple in the world dedicated to Brahma - the creator.
• The site of the holiest lake in the country.
• 52 bathing ghats, which are linked to the lunar calendar, enclose the lake. Each ghat has its own miraculous qualities and powers of healing.
• This city of temples has over 500 temples built over different eras with varied architectural styles.
• The rose garden of Rajasthan - the essence of the famous Pushkar rose is exported the world over.
• The most varied terrain in Rajasthan with sand, rock, hills, vegetation and lakes is ideal for adventure activities.
• Proximity to a number of heritage properties in the area.
• A number of fairs and festivals in Pushkar, especially on the new and full moon days.
• The Dargah of Khwaja Moin-Uddin-Chishti amongst the most sacred Muslims shrines is located at near by Ajmer.
• An opportunity to visit local villages still free from commercialization.
• The 'Nag pahar' or the Snake Mountain forms a natural boundary between Ajmer and Pushkar.

Brahma Temple
Brahma Temple, the only temple where Lord Brahma is worshipped, is one of the main attractions of Pushkar. The temple holds special importance for the followers of Hinduism. The temple houses a life size four-armed idol of Lord Brahma-the creator-in the antralaya (vestibule). The temple is also characterised by its white marble floor and stairs. The walls of the temple are studded with silver coins. The coins are put by the devotees to mark the births or deaths of the loved ones of the devotees who came here to offer prayers. This place, full of natural beauty, holds a special place in the hearts of Indians for it is believed that Lord Brahma, together with all the gods and goddesses, performed a Yagya here.

Pushkar Lake
The lake is situated on the edge of the desert and surrounded by hills on three sides, is separated from Ajmer by 'Nag Pahar'-the snake mountain. On this mountain the Panchkund and the cave of the saint Agastya are located. It is believed that Kalidas-the 4th century sanskrit poet and playright , chose the setting for his masterpiece Abhigyanam Shakuntalam in this forest heritage.

Savitri Temple
The Savitri Temple, located on the top of the Ratnagiri Hill, is dedicated to Goddess Savitri, the wife of Lord Brahma. According to legend, Brahma had performed a yagna alongside Gayatri, a young milkmaid. This enraged the Goddess who cursed her husband that he would never be worshipped anywhere except in Pushkar and that too only once a year. After cursing the Lord, Savitri left for the Ratnagiri Hill and immolated herself. The present temple was built on the very site where Savitri is believed to have committed immolation. The temple houses a beautiful statue of Goddess Savitri inside it.

Mahadeva Temple
Built in the 19th century, the Mahadeva temple is characterised by its statue of Lord Mahadeva. Built of white marble depicting Mahadeva with five faces, the temple is remarkable for the elegance of its structure and the nature of its ornaments.



Rangji Temple
The Rangji Temple is dedicated to Vishnu, the Preserver of the Hindu Trinity. Built in the style of the South Indian temples, it houses two massive structures of dwarpalas (gatekeepers) in front of the main gate. The temple has an image of Garuda, the mount of lord Vishnu.



Varaha Temple
The local Varaha Temple of Pushkar was built in the 12th century. This temple is dedicated to Varaha, the boar incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who is believed to have appeared here.




Man Mahal
The Man Mahal was built by Raja Man Singh of Amber. It is presently functioning as the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation's tourist bungalow.