Located deep in the heart of Rajasthan, Pushkar is more than just a destination; it's a discovery of spiritual exploration and cultural immersion. From the holy ghats of Pushkar Lake to the bustling bazaars and the splendour of the annual Camel Fair, you can participate in a variety of events that highlight this town's rich heritage and lively ambience.
The best way to explore the golden dunes of Pushkar is on the back of a camel. The camel safari, undoubtedly among the most thrilling of experiences, takes you on a bumpy ride through arid terrain and hamlets in the desert, giving you the chance to immerse yourself in the local culture from a unique perspective.
When the camels arrive at the dunes, the visitors get to witness a breathtaking Instagram-worthy sunset and clear blue skies. The camel safari is not just a ride but rather an unforgettable journey into the soul of Rajasthan.
Price: INR 500 - INR 2500 (depending on the duration)
The Pushkar Savitri Temple sits atop Ratnagiri Hill, providing stunning panoramic vistas of the entire town and the valleys surrounding it. The temple is visible from Pushkar Lake, and what's even more beautiful is that it's only a fifteen-minute walk away. As far as enjoying the view across all of Pushkar goes, this is the most convenient option.
It takes around fifteen minutes to go up from the base, although you may need to take a few breaks because the stairs have a steep inclination. There's also a ropeway that uses cables to pull carriages up the mountain. Watch for monkeys if you're taking the stairs, as they can be quite aggressive sometimes. The serene atmosphere at the temple offers a moment for peaceful reflection.
Round-trip journey prices for the ropeway vary based on age and ability: differently-abled individuals must pay INR 125, while children up to 3 years can travel for free. Children above three years old must pay INR 165 for the standard journey and INR 100 for the Mata Mandir to Lower Ropeway station route. The cabin accommodates six persons, and the ropeway service operates from 8 am to 7 pm, with slight adjustments possible due to sunlight and weather conditions.
Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
Witness Pushkar from a unique perspective by going on a hot air balloon ride. Breathtaking views of the town, the tranquil Pushkar Lake, the Aravalli hills and the golden dunes unfold as you glide across the skies.
Drift over the lake and the temples of this historic, holy town and experience the enchantment of floating above this diverse human population. Usually, the balloon ride is organised towards the very end of the fair. The balloon ride typically lasts an hour, allowing enough time to take in the vistas and is best done in the early mornings when the winds are calm. It is advisable to book the balloon ride in advance to avoid last-minute disappointment.
Price: INR 6,000 - INR 15,000
This tranquil lake stands at the heart of Pushkar, a symbol of spirituality. It is surrounded by around fifty bathing ghats and is a holy body of water for Hindus. During the Pushkar fair, thousands of pilgrims come here to take a holy dip, believed to atone for all sins. Mythology has it that this lake was formed by a lotus flower dropped by Lord Bramha.
The lake boasts a variety of fish and is often full throughout the year. There are exotic plants and animals in the surrounding areas. During certain seasons, a large number of migratory birds visit this body of water, making this a destination for all varieties of travellers.
Timings: 9 am to 6 pm
If you are a thrill seeker, the offroading experience of a jeep safari is the perfect Pushkar experience for you. Driving through the desert in the 4x4 vehicle, you will see remote villages, age-old forts, palaces, and temples in and around Pushkar. This is a favourite activity among adventure enthusiasts and photography buffs.
Sharing lives with the nomadic communities of Rajasthan is among the interesting experiences of the jeep safari. Dune bashing, an adrenaline-pumping experience as skilled drivers manoeuvre the undulating sandy terrain, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Pushkar Camel Safari is one of the most prominent safari organisers in Pushkar; they take you to offbeat trails and rugged paths that let you experience the true essence of Rajasthan. Jeep safaris are usually 3-6 hours long, and at the end of the day, you get to jump into the crystal clear and calm water of a small waterfall amidst trees.
Price: INR 1800 - INR 2800 (depending on duration)
The evening prayer, or Aarti in Pushkar, is a spiritual and mesmerising ritual conducted on the ghats of Pushkar Lake. The ringing of the bells, rhythmic chanting of hymns, and the fragrance of incense wafting in the air create an environment of dedication and peace.
As the sun sets and the sky grows darker, priests pray to the almighty, carrying out the ceremony with synchronised movements. The sight of countless tiny lamps floating on the lake against the backdrop of the night sky is truly wonderful, making the Aarti a must-visit experience for every visitor.
The aarti begins at sunset. Come early to ensure that you have the best views, as it tends to become crowded as the evening progresses.
Timings: 7 pm during summers and 5.30 pm during winters
Since the city does not have its own airport, the nearest airport is located 140 kilometres away in Jaipur, from where you can take a taxi or a private bus to get to Pushkar. Since Pushkar is mountainous, the most convenient way to get there is to take a bus from Jaipur or Ajmer, two nearby hubs.