Pushkar; the one tranquil town of Rajasthan, is endowed with the rare quality of being a destination rich in spiritual importance, cultural depth, and natural beauty. Be it anyone, the history buff, adventure junkie, or spiritual traveler, Pushkar grants a special experience for all. This is your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Pushkar.
Places to Visit in Pushkar:
- Pushkar Lake: The Heart of the Town:
Pushkar Lake or “Tirtha Raj,” meaning king of pilgrimage sites, has as many as 52 and more than 500 temples encircling it, bathing in which a person would cleanse and cure his ailments. It is stunningly active during the festival in the month of Kartik Poornima, when it attracts almost all of the pilgrims and tourists alike.
- Brahma Temple: A Unique Spiritual Landmark:
According to Hindu mythology, the temple is one of the few temples of God Brahma and exclusively located in Pushkar. One of the most stunning temples requires visitors to worship for spiritual peace and admire beautiful architecture. Built in the 14th century, the temple is a beautiful site with a red spire and marble work.
- Sacred Hearth House: The High Place of Inspiration:
With an elevation above Ratnagiri Hill, the Savitri Mata Temple presents a complete bird view of Pushkar. To reach here, one needs to cross either the 970 steps or take the cable car ride. The temple enshrines Goddess Savitri, the wife of Lord Brahma.
- Man Mahal: Royal Splendor at the Lakeside:
Raja Man Singh I built the Man Mahal as a royal guesthouse. It is today being used for the RTDC Hotel Sarovar, where visitors would get a taste of Rajasthan’s regal past as well as views of its beautiful lakes.
- Atmateshwar Temple: The Best-kept Secret:
One thousand two hundred AD witnessed the construction of a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva featuring its underground sanctum, cult marvelous Hemadpanti architecture style. It is a place that promotes mental freshening and spiritual intimacy.
Top Things to Do in Pushkar:
- Camel Safari: Ride Through the Desert
Climate safari opens up an enchanting view of the sprawling Thar Desert with sand dunes and desert flora and fauna. Ultimately, one becomes immersed in the serene landscapes of the desert. Truly an exquisite experience, it gives one a rare viewpoint on wilderness in Rajasthan.
- Hot Air Balloon Ride: Soar Above Pushkar
A hot air balloon ride enables bird-view observation of the city and its surroundings. Particularly interesting this year is during the Pushkar Fair; at this time, it is the best place to fly over the living crowds.
- Evening Aarti at Varah Ghat: Spiritualization
Partake in the evening aarti at Varah Ghat, a destination where pilgrims throng to pay homage and witness the incredibly enchanting and deep rituals of offering. The atmosphere here is highly fragrant with incense and resounds with temple bells, bringing memories of a magnificent spiritual experience.
- Jeep Safari: Explore Off the Beaten Track
Jeep safaris are one of the greatest ways to know about the rugged terrains of Rajasthan, ranging from camel rides enacted to adventure seekers. Travel untrodden paths through remote villages and sandy tracks along with beautiful countryside, and reveal the hidden treasures you find along your way.
- Shopping in Pushkar Bazaar: Souvenirs and Handicrafts
Wander round the vibrant Pushkar Bazaar where you can buy traditional Rajasthani handicraft, jewelry, textile, and souvenirs. The different stalls and buzz adds a toll to making shopping here entertaining.
Places to Visit Near Pushkar:
- Ajmer Sharif Darga: Spiritual Harmony
The Ajmer Sharif Dargah, the final abode of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, the Sufi saint, is accompanying Pushkar at a distance of 15 km. The place is thronged by millions across faiths, making it a temple of pilgrimage in the identity of oneness and spiritual harmony.
- Nag Pahad: Mythological Import
Nag Pahad, or Snake Mountain, lies in between Pushkar and Ajmer. Swathed within Hindu mythology, it blesses trekkers with a panoramic view of Pushkar on one side and that of Ajmer on the other, and on the top is found the Nag Kund and Nag Pahad Wale Balaji Temple, frequented by pilgrims.
- Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra: An Indo-Islamic Marvel
Ajmer’s ancient monument was initially a college for scholars promoting the study of Sanskrit, but after being transformed into a mosque by Qutub-ud-Din in 1199 AD, the beauty of Indo-Islamic architecture was further adorned with beautiful calligraphy covering the arches. Indeed a delight for history lovers!
- Ana Sagar Lake: A Calm Urban Escape
Anasagar, a gigantic artificial lake created in the 12th century, stands a few kilometers from Ajmer Sharif Dargah. Placed in an environment of Daulat Bagh and other gardens and with boating facilities provided, this makes for a good downtime after the temple viewing.
Best Time to Visit Pushkar:
The ideal time to visit Pushkar is during the cooler months, from October to March. This period coincides with the Pushkar Fair, held around Kartik Poornima, which is a major cultural and religious event attracting visitors worldwide.
Where to Stay in Pushkar
Pushkar offers a wide variety of accommodations from heritage hotels to backpacker hostels- that cater to every kind of traveler. Whether you’re looking for a luxury stay or a budget-friendly guesthouse, here are some great options:
- Ananta Spa & Resorts– For luxury seekers, this property offers premium amenities and stunning views of the Aravalli Hills.
- Zostel Pushkar– Perfect for solo travelers and backpackers, Zostel is known for its vibrant vibe and communal feel.
- Hotel Pushkar Palace– Located right on the ghats, it’s ideal for those who want to stay close to the lake and temple areas.
Dishes You Should Not Miss in Pushkar:
Pushkar is technically a vegetarian town, and very much a satvik one at that. However, perhaps the best criterion for judging the diversity of its foods is that it draws international tourists into its fold.
Some must try dishes:
- Malpua- A sweet pancake-like dessert especially relished during festivals.
- Kachori & Samosa- Common breakfast snacks found at every corner.
- Israeli Food- La Pizzeria and The Laughing Buddha Café serve fabulous falafel, hummus, and shakshuka.
Sample Itinerary: 2-Day Pushkar Visit
Here’s a suggested 2-day itinerary to help you cover all the best places to visit in Pushkar:
Day 1: Spiritual & Cultural Immersion
Morning: Visit Brahma Temple and take a dip in Pushkar Lake.
Afternoon: Lunch at a lakeside café, followed by Atmateshwar Temple and Man Mahal.
Evening: Enjoy Varah Ghat Aarti and shop at Pushkar Bazaar.
Day 2: Adventure & Views
Morning: Camel safari or Jeep tour into the desert.
Midday: Take the cable car or trek to Savitri Temple.
Evening: Wind down with a hot air balloon ride (if available) or a cafe visit for sunset views.
It is a mix of spirituality, excitement, shopping, deserts, and beaches: an organized jumble of the sacred and the profane from Pushkar. Find that niche space-tranquility among the wretched; tradition-steeped and adventure-hungry cultures-all huddled up in this little Rajasthan town within a small, easily walking area.
So pack your bags, charge your camera, and let yourself get caught up in the overly dramatic chaos of Pushkar that makes for a fascinating backdrop.
