Pushkar is a picturesque tiny city located around a sacred lake that has long been a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus. However, in the 1960s, Pushkar became a popular stop on the iconic Hippie Trail, and it still attracts a large number of spiritual travelers today.
If you're wondering why this travel guide exists, you'll have to wait and read on in this Pushkar travel blog to learn more about the Pushkar Lake, Ghats, temples, history and the famous Pushkar Festival Mela. This is one of India's oldest cities and one of the world's holiest. Even though Pushkar has long been a Hindu pilgrimage site, it has grown in popularity among both Indian and foreign visitors; we shall learn more about this in our Pushkar travel guide.
There are numerous intriguing legends surrounding the history of Pushkar Lake and the town. Several of these have mythological significance. Lord Vishnu is reported to have appeared at Varah Ghat as a hog. Lord Brahma is said to have bathed and conducted Yajna at the Brahma Ghat, alongside Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. Sikh Guru Govind Singh recites the precious Guru Granth Sahib at Pushkar Lake.
During his stay in Ajmer, 14 kilometers from Pushkar Lake, Mughal Emperor Jahangir established a hunting lodge in 1615-16. Ajmer was under Mughal authority. This violated local law, which prohibits killing animals in this hallowed region. Jahangir's grandson Aurangzeb is infamous for ordering the destruction of many temples in Pushkar and other parts of North India. Many Rajput and Maratha monarchs constructed temples on the ghats. Some notable monarchs who did so included Maharaja Man Singh I of Amer, Daulat Rao Scindia of Gwalior, and Maha Rana Pratap of Udaipur.
According to Hindu mythology, Pushkar is known as Adi Tiratha or Tirth-Raj. According to local mythology, Lord Brahma built Pushkar Lake. Vajra Nabha, a demon, slaughtered Brahma's children.
It is also thought that the lake's mysterious water cures skin diseases; however, I am not sure if this is accurate.
Ajmer, located near Pushkar, is easily accessible by train from major towns in North India. It is 14 kilometres from Pushkar. Pushkar, a Hindu holy place, too has a direct rail service from Haridwar/Rishikesh. Pushkar has direct bus service from all of Rajasthan's major towns and cities.
For those who have never heard of or visited this town, it is a Hindu pilgrimage destination, hence alcohol and non-vegetarian cuisine are strictly prohibited. But this does not imply that eating has taken a backseat. On the contrary, it is a melting pot of diverse cuisines, making it an excellent choice for those looking to indulge in gluttony. Pushkar has numerous excellent dining options.
I have yet to come across a town in Rajasthan that serves a selection of Mediterranean and Italian dishes in addition to the native food. Pushkar has a superior wood-burning pizza at a lower price than Jaipur. Pushkar is one of the few spots where you may indulge in a delicious Banoffee pie, which is tough to get in other Indian cities.
I've tried some of the best vegetarian street-side wraps near Varaha Ghat. They are quite popular with international visitors and are among Tripadvisor's best places to eat in Pushkar. Wrap sellers modify them to Indian or Western taste palettes. Most Indians favor spicier versions. Pushkar's food is delicious, fresh, authentic and reasonably priced!
Pushkar is a religious town, hence there are many temples. Looking at how several sources claim the number of temples in this sacred town, I believe it is three digits. The most notable temple is the Brahma Temple, which is thought to be the only one devoted to Lord Brahma.
Personally, I enjoyed the architecture of the old Rangji temple, which incorporates many distinct architectural features. In contrast, the new Rangji temple is designed to resemble a South Indian temple. Savitri temple is popular among international visitors due to its magnificent climb and vistas. Pushkar is a holy spot for both Hindus and Sikhs. There is a large Gurudwara in Pushkar called Gurudwara.
The general environment exudes spirituality. It is more than simply another town in Rajasthan. Religion is a major aspect of Pushkar.
I am not implying that you will love this city like me and have a similar experience in Pushkar with this travel guide in Pushkar. But I'm confident you'll fall in love with Pushkar because it is unlike any other place. This is one of the reasons why so many Indians and foreigners visit Pushkar.
The vibrant main roadway that around Pushkar Lake's Ghats is difficult to miss. The streets are busy, and there is a noticeable buzz all around. Pushkar Street's stores provide a wide range of items to pique your interest, including embroidered clothing, leather purses, handicrafts, costume jewelry, and more. It is difficult to resist temptation and release the purse strings.
On the other side, advertisements for cafes, restaurants, guest houses, and hotels may be found all over the place, fighting for your attention. Pushkar has some of the most creative and ludicrous restaurant names, like Om Baba, Out of the Blue, Honey & Spice, The Laughing Buddha Cafe, Funky Monkey Cafe, Energy Cafe, and A Blue Star, to name a few!
The town is tranquil (unless during the Pushkar Fair), although there is a lot going on here. Simply sitting by the lake and taking in the scenery is pleasant. Pushkar has a relaxed pace of life. Everyone is relaxed, as if life were moving slowly. Pushkar is uniquely Rajasthani while also being multicultural.
Here's a full travel blog on Pushkar, including places to see, visit, stay, and eat. It's the ultimate Pushkar travel guide.
Pushkar is a popular destination for long-term vacationers. It's not just about Pushkar's must-see sites and activities. Pushkar has a whole distinct vibe. Discovering the soul of Pushkar in order of importance.
Life in Pushkar revolves around Pushkar Lake. It is an artificial lake formed in the 12th century by constructing a dam across a tributary of the Luni River. Hundreds of temples, including the famed Brahma temple, surround this holy lake.
There are 52 ghats on Pushkar Lake. It is thought that taking a swim in Pushkar's holy lake will help wash away sins. Taking a holy plunge on Kartik Purnima (based on the Hindu calendar), which occurs in November, is widely venerated in Hindu culture and attracts thousands of devotees to the sacred town. Pushkar Fair also ends on this day.
Many people believe this is the sole Brahma temple in the globe. I cannot vouch for the same. Aside from the lake, it is the holy city's most popular attraction. The temple authorities claim it is 2000 years old, however the existing construction dates from the 14th century. The monarch of Ratlam donated financial assistance to repair the existing temple. This temple was reportedly demolished and rebuilt under the reign of Mughal king Aurangzeb. There was a big uproar earlier this year when one of the priests died and an official was appointed by the state authorities to manage the affairs of the temple.
Photography is not authorized on temple grounds, and there have been reports of ignorant tourists being harassed as a result of their photographic adventures.
Pushkar Lake features 52 Ghats, each with a unique history. These ghats encircle the lake. None of them were built all at once, but rather over hundreds of years. What matters is the history behind each of these. Some of these ghats had distinct names or were modified over time. Man Ghatt, erected by Maharaja Man Singh I of Jaipur, was later dubbed Jaipur Ghat. Likewise, Gau Ghat was renamed Gandhi Ghat. Each Ghat has information stones that describe its name and history.
The most prominent Ghat in Pushkar is Varah Ghat. It's a hub of activity. Varaha Ghat hosts an evening Aarti, or prayer service. Aside from that, Brahma Ghat and Gau Ghat are the most popular Ghats. Brahmin Pandits are appointed to their specific Ghats. Shoes are not permitted on Ghats; each Ghat will have marks for removing shoes; please follow the recommendations. Photography on Ghats is strictly prohibited, especially during the Pushkar Fair. There are instances when you can take photographs, but it is preferable to obtain permission before doing so.
The Savitri temple is placed on Ratnagiri hill, one of the highest in the region. Savitri is Lord Brahma's estranged wife, and there is a fascinating mythological story surrounding the Savitri shrine.
When Lord Brahma performed yagna in Pushkar, Savitri was unable to arrive on time. He performed Yagna with a native Gurjar (shepherd clan) girl named Gayatri, who became Lord Brahma's second wife. When Savitri arrived at the Yajna site, she became enraged and rushed to a hilltop to cast a spell on Lord Brahma, stating that he could only be worshipped in one place: Pushkar. According to popular custom, Savitri is venerated before Gayatri. People claim that Savitri's idols date back to the seventh century AD. However, the Savitri temple was built during the twentieth century. These assertions are difficult to verify.
The temple can be reached by trekking up the steps or by the recently opened Savitri Temple ropeway or cable car. Many folks like to hike up around sunrise or sunset.
Old Rangji Temple is located near Varha Ghat in Pushkar's bustling market. I admire its gorgeous architecture since it combines numerous architectural styles, the most renowned of which are South Indian temples. The temple was built in the mid-19th century, thus it is not very old. It honors Rangji, a manifestation of Lord Vishnu.
The temple's name must have been taken from Lord Ranganath, who is adored in various places in South India. What is the best landmark to locate this temple? Streetside wrap vendors near Varaha Ghat.
This is a new version of the original Rangji temple, designed in the classic South Indian architectural style with a large and painted Gopuram. It is commonly referred to as the new Rangji temple, although its proper name is Shree Ram Vaikunth Temple. According to one account from the temple's history, a wealthy businessman visited the old Rangji temple at night and was denied Darshan by the watchman.
He felt enraged and determined to construct a larger temple, New Rangji Temple. I don't know if this is a true story, but the temple is certainly amazing.
Photography is banned in the temple. The temple trust only enables Indians to attend and have darshan at the temple. The modern Rangji Temple is more visible because it is located on the Pushkar Ghat road, but the Old Rangji Temple is not.
Some call it Paap Mochini, but it is actually Paap Mokshini Temple. This temple is also known as Gayatri Mandir. It is located on a little hillock that offers a panoramic view of the holy city. It may be reached via an unpaved trail, which requires a 10-15 minute hike.
The temple is only open at sunrise and sunset. This temple is overshadowed by Savitri Mandir, therefore it receives only a few people each day. Aside from the sights and the calm, there is nothing worth discussing. This location also makes for an excellent sunset spot in Pushkar.
Pushkar is synonymous with camels, and most tourists enjoy camel safari cart trips. If you're visiting Pushkar during the Pushkar Camel Fair, the Pushkar Fairground is a great site to go on a camel safari. There are camel carriages and camels for rides you can book a camel safari in Pushkar with Golden Triangle Tours In India.
Jaipur Ghat is also called Sunset Point in Pushkar. It was constructed by Maharajah Man Singh I of Amer. Previously known as Man Ghat, it was later renamed Jaipur Ghat. The sunset cafe overlooks Pushkar Lake and offers the nicest sunsets in Pushkar. When I visit Pushkar, I always go to Jaipur Ghat because it is the nicest thing to do there.
This location frequently becomes active as visitors and travellers decide to conduct fire dances or demonstrate acrobatics, among other things. Last time, a group of local kids danced with the tourists. If you want to have some fun, Sunset Cafe is the finest spot to relax and unwind in Pushkar.
Tip! The Sunset Cafe is located in one of the greatest areas of Pushkar, and some consider it the best cafe in Pushkar. In my opinion, this is the worst restaurant to eat in Pushkar. I've eaten Sunset Cafe several times, and the meal never disappoints!
Pushkar Gurudwara is known as Gurudwara Singh Sabha. Previously, it was merely a Dharamshala, or lodging facility, but a two-story Gurudwara was built here a few years ago.
During one of my trips to the Pushkar Fair, I decided to stop by Gurudwara and ask the person in charge about the significance of Pushkar to Sikhs. I was told that two of the most prominent Gurus of the Sikhs, Guru Nanak and Guru Gobind Sikh, spent time in Pushkar. Pushkar Lake has a ghat dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh, known as the Gobind Ghat. Guru Gobind Singh is thought to have spent several months here after being expelled from Anandpur by Mughal king Aurangzeb in the early 18th century.
A frequent train service, the Shatabdi Express, connects Ajmer and New Delhi. The nearest domestic airport is Jaipur. For individuals arriving from other countries, the nearest international airport is New Delhi. There is also a direct bus service from Delhi. Pushkar to Jaipur.
Pushkar is 145 kilometers from Jaipur and may be reached by direct bus or cab service. It takes approximately 2.5 hours to get from Jaipur to Pushkar. Even though the train service between Ajmer and Jaipur is decent, traveling from Pushkar to Jaipur by cab or bus is recommended.
We are delighted that you reached here.
Please share your queries with us regarding the booking tour with us.
