Pushkar: The Land of Ghats and Temples
Ajmer is one of the largest districts in Indian state, Rajasthan. It is one of the most popular tourist destination for religious travels. Ajmer is home of several other historical places such as Tara Garh, Adhai Din ka Jhopda, Aanasagar Lake, Foy Sagar Lake and beautiful Dargah Bazaar. There are a few small, yet lovely tourist destinations under distance of 30kms from Ajmer, Pushkar is one of those. Pushkar is only 11km from Ajmer, separated by Nag Pahad (Snake Mountain).
Rajasthan is popularly known to be the land of deserts. But Pushkar is a blend of both desert and lakes. It is a small town situated at the periphery of Thar Desert. It has several temples. Most of the temples are not very old because these were demolished while Muslim conquests in the area. The town also has famous lake popularly known as the Pushkar Lake. Listed below are the tourist activities one should undertake while visiting this beautiful city.
Brahma Temple
Brahma Temple in Pushkar is the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma in India. It is because of this reason Pushkar attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. The temple is believed to be 2000 years old. The temple is visited by pilgrims and also by the holy men and sages, after taking a ceremonial sacred bath in the Pushkar Lake. The temple is open for worship between 6:30 am and 8:30 pm during winter and 6:00 am to 9:00 pm during summer. A visit to the Savtri temple should be undertaken by those who are ready for a steep uphill walk. But once you reach the top, view of town’s beautiful Lake and surrounding landscape leaves one awestruck.
Pushkar Lake
It is one the most beautiful things you can witness while your stay. A sacred lake of the Hindus, Pushkar Lake is of the five most sacred pilgrimage destinations for the Hindus in India. This sacred lake of Hindus attracts all kinds of tourists i.e. foreigners, sages, devotees and locals. Devotees offer flowers to the lake and seek blessings. It is also known as Tirath-Raj. The Lake is surrounded by 52 bathing ghats, which are jam-packed during Kartik Poornima. Even if you are not a religious devotee, you can always take a plunge into the Lake.
Camel, Jeep and Horse Riding
Tired of religious places? Take a camel or horse riding at the sand dunes around the town. Camels adorned with Rajasthani accessories and garments, makes your ride more beautiful. The rustic jeeps will give you an opportunity to experience Rajputana traditions more closely. Wait till the dusk and enjoy the setting sun with a glass full of chillers. Horse riding is also available to enjoy the setting beauty of the town. If you do not wish to engage in a camel or jeep ride, there are other options as well. You can roll around, jump, and play in the sand dunes. Carry your flying disc next time and you are all set to roll in the sands.
Pushkar Fair
Pushkar Fair is the world famous five-day fair held in Kartika Mas which is roughly in month of October-November. This fair has been attracting tourists from all over the world and becomes a hit destination for tourism. The fair is an ideal opportunity for people who wish to see the culture of Rajasthan. Camel riding, Hot air balloon rides and Bullock riding are some of the most popular leisure activities undertaken by tourists. There are several competitions, which becomes a great source of entertainment for the visitors. Some of them are- Mandana competition, Turban Tying competition, Kabaddi competition, Mustache Competition, Wrestling competitions and many more. The Fair is the main source of income for village dwellers, as they sell their livestock here.
Pushkar Market
No matter where you go, with whom you go, you can always, always shop. Different handicraft items such as Tie-and-Dye Fabrics, Paintings, Finely Cut Precious Stones, Wood and Ivory Carving, Lacquer Work, Enchanting jewellery and Pottery pieces and Garments of all range can be bought here. You can even buy traditional Rajasthani garments and accessories. The garments sold here presents a perfect blend of hippie and traditional culture. Besides it is also known for its antique articles, which are shopped in large number by the visitors. Roses of Pushkar are very famous, and are used for making Ittar.
Evening aarti at Ghats
One of the best way to end your trip at Pushkar is by attending the evening aarti at ghats. It becomes the most mesmerizing scene you’ll cherish all your life. People in thousands assemble around the ghats and worship the Pushkar Sarowar. The sound of gongs, temple bells and hymns fills the area with religious faith and adds to its scenic advantage. The floating diyas leaves the aura spellbound.
Holi Festival
The Holi festival is organised every year on the day of Holi itself. Not only Local people but foreign tourists participate in this festival with great enthusiasm. During the festival, people put colour on each other’s face and splash water spiritedly. The playful throwing of colors is accompanied with beats of dhol and music being played in the background. The scenario is filled up with laughter, dance and lots of colors. If you ever miss to visit Pushkar during The five-day fair, try coloring yourself with happiness at the Holi festival.
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