18 Scintillating Places To Visit In Pushkar
Pushkar does not need any introduction for the glory, history and culture that it exhibits. One of the ancient cities of the country, located in Ajmer, it has been largely known for its religious significance as the city boasts of one of the very rare temples of Lord Brahma(Hindu god). The annual cattle fair, the holy lake, a handful of adventure activities, and endless emotions to capture on camera — Pushkar has it all for any avid traveler. Just before we introduce you to an exclusive list of places to visit in Pushkar, here are a few essentials you must note.
1. Pushkar Lake Banks – Home To Famous Pushkar Fair
Yes, the famous fair takes places at the banks of the Pushkar Lake. Colors, spectacle and a carnival — one of the last great traditional melas in India, brings livestock, farmers, traders and villagers from all over Rajasthan together. This fair is an excuse to experience the shades of rural India in its most organic form wherein one can interact with villagers, and buy Rajasthani handicrafts.
The fair is one of the best places to see in Pushkar since it attracts crowd in huge numbers.The fair also organises a plethora of animal races, camel processions and cultural performances. Further, it has recently become a popular attraction among hippies and foreign tourists. Without a doubt, it is one of the best tourist places in Pushkar.
2. Pushkar Lake – Offer Prayers At The Ghats
Pushkar Lake is closest to the temple of God Brahma and one of the most serene places to see in Pushkar. As per mythology, this place is where Brahma and Savitri offered their prayers. It is believed that a dip in this holy river is the harbinger of Moksha — freedom from birth. The lake has several ghats, designed especially for taking baths and offering prayers. Brahma Ghat is the most famous among many others like Varaha, Dadhich, Saptarishi, Gwalior, Kota, Gau, Yag, Jaipur, Karni and Gangaur Ghat.
3. Naga Pahar – For Photography Enthusiasts
Pushkar and Ajmer are divided by a hill — known as Naga Pahar. As per the legends, the hills at Naga Pahar continue to diminish till date and will eventually disappear totally. These hills are believed to be the residence of the famous Sage Agastya. The hills also house a lake called Nag Kund. Naga Pahar offers a spectacular view of Pushkar city from its top and has often been used as a vantage point for photographers. It is one of the best Pushkar places to visit for a memorable holiday.
4. Sarafa Bazar – A Colourful Market
Think Rajasthan and you get colors. Sarafa Bazar is one of the best tourist places in Pushkar. The markets here are a perfect ambassador of Rajasthani handicrafts, textile, jewellery and leather products. From trinkets to turban – the markets like Sarafa Bazar and Bada Bazar have it all that has been fascinating tourists from all across the globe.
The embroidered Rajasthani clothes, wall hangings, handicrafts are something that one can’t afford to miss. So, if you missed anything from the you could buy from here.
5. Man Mahal – Enjoy Breathtaking Sunset Views
Built by Amber’s Raja Man Singh, this beautiful palace is located close to the Pushkar sarovar. The palace is built in traditional Rajasthani architecture and has a temple inside. The palace is maintained by the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation and is used as a tourist bungalow. The key attractions for tourists are breathtaking sunset views of the lakes and temples around. Camel riding and camping arrangements can be made on request for guests.
6. Varah Temple – Largest Temple In Pushkar
Varah Temple is one of the largest and the oldest temples in Pushkar. The temple is dedicated to Varaha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu as a boar. Constructed in the 12th century, this temple is an architectural wonder. Varah Temple was destructed the then Mughal ruler, Aurangzeb as he was offended by the depiction of the body of a man with the head of a boar in the temple. In 1727, the temple was restored by Raja Sawai Jai Singh II.
7. Rangji Temple – New Temple In Town
Rangji Temple is one of the newest temples in the town and was constructed in 1823 under the guidance of Seth Puran Mal Ganeriwal. A major highlight of this temple is its South Indian architecture, especially the high gopuram. The temple is dedicated to Lord Rangii who is related to Lord Vishnu. The temple also features other architectural styles including the Rajput and Mughal. The temple is located near many tourist attractions of Pushkar, and you can explore them on a bicycle.
8. Gayatri Mata Temple – Dedicated To Lord Brahma’s Wife
Gayatri Mata Temple is one of the must-visit places to see in Pushkar as this temple has a connection with Lord Brahma. According to mythology, when Lord Brahma married an untouchable girl Savitri in the absence of Gayatri, he was cursed by his wife that he will never be worshipped anywhere else except Pushkar. So, this is the reason why Lord Brahma and Gayatri Mata are worshipped as a couple in this temple. It is only a short walk from Lord Brahma Temple.
9. Gau Ghat – For Rituals & Ceremonies
Gau Ghat is one of the 52 ghats of the lake and also one of the most beautiful places to visit in Pushkar. The ghat is mainly famous for performing rituals and holy ceremonies. It is also where the ashes of Mahatma Gandhi, Jawahar Lal Nehru and Lal bahadur Shastri were scattered. So, you might be in the presence of spirits of influential men. The serene and holy ambiance of this place will blow your mind anyway.
10. Mahadeva Temple – A Spiritual Getaway
Pushkar is one of the prominent cities in India that is known for its amazing temples. The city boasts of several temples worth visiting. These temples not only provide a spiritual getaway but also take one through the history lanes of this ancient city. One such temple is the Mahadeva Temple which is amongst the famous Pushkar tourist places. Constructed in the 19th century, the Mahadeva Temple in Pushkar is one of the most visited places in the town. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva as its main deity and has a white marble statue of him in the inside. Polished flooring and wonderful wall paintings are a highlight of this temple. Another major highlight of its architecture is the embossed pink pillars.
11. Merta – Birthplace Of Meera Bai
Merta is almost 400 years old and has been famous for Meera Temple — the Krishna devotee. Previously known as Medantak, this city happens to be the birthplace of Meera Bai and this connection has kept it among the popular places to visit in Pushkar. Dadhimati Temple and Charbhuja Temple, located here, also attract a large number of devotees round the year. This city also holds a lot of historical significance owing to the large number of battles it has witnessed and hence, is among popular places to visit in Pushkar. if you are visiting places in Pushkar, make sure it is one of them.
12. Rose Garden – Mesmerizing Fragrance Of Roses
Surprisingly, Pushkar is also known for its rose farming. It is referred as the Rose Garden of Rajasthan. The farmers, here, grow rose extensively and the diversities of this flower grown here, are exported all over the world. There are acres of farm lands with beautiful red roses in different hues spreading the fragrance — enchanting enough to make one crave to sit and spend some rosy time. Visit these famous Pushkar tourist places for a memorable holiday with your closed ones.
13. Kishangarh – Visit Magnificent Forts
Even around Pushkar, places to visit are many. A municipality on the outskirts of Pushkar, Kishangarh is famous for its magnificent forts and marble mines. The Phool Mahal and Roopangarh Fort here are a peep into the rich history of this region. The marble mines in Kishangarh are also worth visiting as they help you understand the processes involved behind those marble slabs in your home.
14. Brahma’s Temple – A Sacred Place
Situated near the Pushkar Lake, this is one of few temples of Brahma that now exist in India. Also known as the Jagatpita Brahma Mandir, the temple was built in the 14th century. The temple has been built with marble and stone and features a red pinnacle. The walls are decorated with bird motifs. Images of Brahma has been placed in the sanctum sanctorum. A unique tradition which is followed here is that this place is reserved only for ascetics or sanyasis and married men are not allowed to enter the sanctum sanctorum. The architectural beauty of this temple is simply amazing, especially the pillared outdoor hall and the numerous marble steps leading to the temple. The temple can be visited throughout the year but October and November are the most important months with a festival dedicated to Lord Brahma.
15. Savitri Mata Temple – Place Of Religious Significance
Constructed in 1687, the Savitri Mata Temple is situated on the Ratnagiri Hill and is one of the popular Pushkar places to visit. It is believed to be the place where Goddess Savitri found some rest after revolting with her husband on marrying another woman.
The temple is said to be built by her and it served as a lookout from where she could watch her husband’s moves. The temple homes the idols of Goddesses Savitri and Gayatri. The way to the temple passes through the hills so you can trek to the temple through the Ratnagiri Hill. This journey also has a religious significant as it is considered to be a penance of our sins.
16. Gurudwara Sahib Pushkar – Waheguru, Waheguru
Pushkar is a place of many faiths where you will find temples, gurudwara, and majar. Gurudwara Sahib Pushkar is one of the holy places to visit in Pushkar that is located right in the centre of the city. It is believed that this is where Guru Gobind Singh and Guru Nanak Dev rested while they made a stop in Pushkar. This is why this place holds great importance and respect in people’s hearts. You will feel serenity and peace in the premises of Gurudwara.
17. Varaha Ghat – A Serene Spot
Pushkar Lake is so large that it has various ghats that offer unique views. Varah Ghat is one of the must places to visit in pushkar as it is where the beautiful evening aarti takes place. You may have enjoyed Ganga Aarti by the river but wait till you enjoy aarti by the lake. It is so serene and invigorating. You will feel your heart overwhelmed with joy and peace.
18. The Laughing Buddha Cafe – Vegan Food
Since pushkar is also a famous backpacking destination, you will find a myriad of cafes offering salubrious food. When you feel hungry while visiting places in pushkar, find your way to Lord Buddha vegan Cafe where you will enjoy food of various kinds. The vegan preparation from fresh produce will leave your heart happy and stomach full.