Known by different names such as Pushkar Fair, Pushkar Camel Fair, or Kartik Mela, this annual cultural extravaganza unfolds in Rajasthan. Pushkar, a revered destination in the state, embodies authentic traditions, unmodified culture, and exceptional hospitality. Recognized as India's largest cattle fair, spanning 9 days, each day brings unique and energising programs and attractions.
Pushkar also boasts the sole temple dedicated to Lord Brahma, and the sacred lake surrounding it is believed to have been consecrated by 33 million Hindu Gods on the night of Kartik Purnima, establishing Pushkar as one of the five dhams for Hindu followers.
History Of Pushkar Fair In India
Locals of Pushkar claim that the fair is more than 100 years old. Initially, the fair was organized to glorify and celebrate the Kartik Purnima (full moon night of consecration of Pushkar lake) in the lunar month of Kartik as per the Hindu calendar. Nearby villagers would come here to celebrate the rich Hindu culture by performing religious rituals, folk music and dance. Being a desert, Rajasthan is home to camels which are an innate part of their culture and festivals. During Pushkar Mela 2024, camel owners decorate their camels in vibrant clothes and accessories, hang bells around their necks, and paint them to gather the crowd's attraction and honour the animal for its hard work.
During the Pushkar fair, pilgrims and villagers from across the country visit this sacred place to take the holy dip at Pushkar Lake and offer prayers to Lord Brahma in his one and only temple on earth in Pushkar. Puppet acts, mustache competitions, camel sports, Matka Tod competitions, Bridal competitions, camel parades, and dance performances are the major highlights of the fair. The 9 days long Pushkar fair (Mela) is a concentrated dose of Rajasthani culture and heritage.
Also Read - Top 10 Best Places To Visit In Rajasthan
Major Attractions Of Pushkar Camel Fair 2024
The annual livestock fair in Pushkar attracts many visitors from all over the country. Even foreigners love experiencing the grand gala affair. It is the best time to visit Pushkar as the fair gives a glimpse into the centuries-old culture and traditions of the destination. Have a look at the major attractions of Pushkar Camel Fair that will leave you awestruck with its sheer scale and magnificence.
1. Biggest Cattle Trade Fair
The fair is visited by agriculturalists, farmers, cattle owners, and people who belong to the dairy industry to sell and purchase cattle and camels. Apart from sales and purchases, people also get to witness an exhibition of camels wherein they are adorned with vibrant accessories and clothes.
2. Folk Music and Dance
Many fusion bands from India perform during the festival, a major highlight of the fair. Some fun and extremely entertaining competitions and events are also a part of the event in which people participate and win prizes.
3. Camping and Hot Air Balloon Rides
You are mistaken if you think there is no place for adventure and thrill in this cattle fair cum cultural festival. All adventure enthusiasts can opt for camping or the hot air balloon ride at the fair. The hot air balloon ride will give you a birds' eye view of the fair, which is incredible! Camping in the cold nights and the warm hospitality of people at Pushkar is an unmatched combo you’ve got to try once.
Also Read - TopThings To Do At Pushkar Fair Rajasthan
4. Desert Safari
Being in Pushkar is an opportunity to opt for a desert safari on a camel. Camel ride amidst the golden sand and under the blue sky is an experience of a lifetime that one will never forget. Apart from camel rides, people can also opt for horse and jeep rides to explore the place and the Pushkar Mela to the fullest.
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5. Ajmer Sharif Dargah
Ajmer Sharif is a holy shrine of Sufi saint Moinuddin Chisti. The Dargah is approximately 15km away from the Pushkar Mela. People from across the globe arrive here to offer their prayers, make wishes and escape from the fast-paced life, and get lost in the mystical ambience of the shrine.
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How To Reach Pushkar Mela 2024
Pushkar is an ancient city home to the one and only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe. The town is also known for many other tourist destinations, such as Pushkar Lake, Varaha Temple, Savitri Temple, and Man Mahal. Every year tourists from the country and abroad arrive here to witness the charm and vibrant culture this town holds. The destination is well-connected by diverse modes of transportation.
- Nearest Airport. Kishangarh Airport
- Nearest Railway Station. Pushkar Terminus
- Major City Near Pushkar. Ajmer
- Distance from Ajmer. 15.7 km
By Air. The nearest airports to Pushkar are Kishangarh airport and Jaipur airport. Both the airports receive direct and connecting flights from all the metropolitan cities of India hence finding flights would not be a problem. After deboarding, visitors can hire a taxi or a cab to arrive at Pushkar.
- Distance From Kishangarh Airport. 41 km
- Distance From Jaipur Airport. 150.9 km
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By Train. Ajmer Junction train station and Pushkar terminus are the two nearest railway stations to reach Pushkar. Express and Superfast trains from across the country and major cities arrive at the station. After disembarking at the railway station, cabs, taxis, and buses are available to ferry visitors to Pushkar.
- Distance From Ajmer Junction. 14 km
- Distance From Pushkar Terminus. 2.5 km
By Road. Travelling via inter-state and intra-state tourist buses is convenient and cheaper. You can also drive to the town if you are passionate about long road journeys. If you are planning to drive to the town in your personal vehicle, you may consider travelling via NH 11 from Jaisalmer, Bikaner-Barmer Road from Bikaner, SH 7 from Sikar, and NH 21 from Gwalior. The well-developed and well-connected railways, roadways, and airways allow you to easily commute to the town from any part of the country. Here are some of the best travel options to consider when planning a trip to this ancient city.
- Distance From Ajmer. 10 km
- Distance From Bhilwara. 128 km
- Distance From Jaipur. 131 km
- Distance From Pali. 147 km
- Distance From Jodhpur. 155 km
- Distance From Kota. 197 km
- Distance From Bikaner. 210 km
- Distance From Udaipur. 230 km
- Distance From Alwar. 236 km
- Distance From Bharatpur. 304 km
- Distance From Delhi. 420 km
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Conclusion
Pushkar Fair stands as a vibrant tapestry of Rajasthan's cultural heritage. This annual spectacle, known by various names like Pushkar Camel Fair and Kartik Mela, captivates with its authentic traditions, spirited energy, and unique attractions. As India's largest cattle fair, it not only showcases the grandeur of livestock but also provides a platform for diverse cultural programs. Pushkar's significance extends beyond the fair, with its distinction of housing the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma. This sacred place, intertwined with myth and tradition, cements Pushkar's stature as one of the five dhams for Hindu devotees, offering a truly enriching experience for all who partake in its festivities.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Pushkar Fair 2024
Ques 1. Why is Pushkar Fair celebrated?
Ans 1. Initially, the fair was organized to glorify and celebrate the Kartik Purnima (full moon night of consecration of Pushkar lake) in the lunar month of Kartik as per the Hindu calendar. Today, it is the world’s largest cattle fair.
Ques 2. Where is Pushkar Fair celebrated in Rajasthan?
Ans 2. Pushkar Fair is celebrated in Pushkar, a holy city near Ajmer in Rajasthan. It is situated 10 km away from Ajmer.
Ques 3. What is so unique about Pushkar Camel Fair?
Ans 3. This camel festival is India’s largest cattle fair held for 9 days, and unique and energising programs and attractions mark each day.
Ques 4. When is Pushkar Fair organised?
Ans 4. The fair is organised to glorify and celebrate the Kartik Purnima (full moon night of consecration of Pushkar lake) in the lunar month of Kartik as per the Hindu calendar, which usually falls in November.
Ques 5. When is the Pushkar Fair celebrated?
Ans 5. The fair is organised to glorify and celebrate the Kartik Purnima (full moon night of consecration of Pushkar lake) in the lunar month of Kartik as per the Hindu calendar, which usually falls in November.
Ques 6. What are the timings of the Pushkar Fair?
Ans 6. The Pushkar Fair timings are 9 am to 5 pm for the nine days span of the event.
Ques 7. What is Pushkar Mela’s history?
Ans 7. Pushkar Fair started to be celebrated approximately 100 years ago. It is a cultural kaleidoscope held in Rajasthan every year. Pushkar is a well-known place in the state blessed with authentic traditions, unmodified culture, and unique hospitality. This camel festival is India’s largest cattle fair held for 9 days, and unique and energising programs and attractions mark each day.
Ques 8. When did Pushkar Mela came to be celebrated?
Ans 8. Pushkar Mela started to be celebrated approximately 100 years ago.
Ques 9. What are the accommodation facilities available for visitors coming to Pushkar Mela?
Ans 9. Besides budget to luxury hotels, visitors can also avail of accommodation facilities in tents. A tented city comes up every year near Pushkar to accommodate visitors.
Ques 10. Which are the must-visit attractions near Pushkar?
Ans 10. The must-visit attractions near Pushkar are Dargah Ajmer Sharif, Anasagar Lake, Adhai din ka Jhopra, Soni Ji Ki Nasiya Jain Temple, Taragarh Fort, and more.