Pushkar

Pushkar is a renowned Hindu pilgrimage destination encircling the holy Pushkar Lake that has mythological significance. It is believed to have been created when Lord Brahma dropped a lotus flower from his hand to kill a demon. At three places the three petals of the flower fell, where mystically originated sparkling blue lakes amidst the dry deserts. The largest one was at Pushkar, where Lord Brahma convened a gathering of 9 lac celestial beings.

Entering into this city, you will be filled by a religious aura with the sounds of chants and bells and the fragrance of incense sticks and other puja (prayer) paraphernalia. On the ghats you will find thousands of devotees taking a dip into the holy lake, clasping their hands and murmuring chants for their Lord. Enclosing the lake are a multitude of pink domed temples in white in the backdrop of desert ambiance.

Orientation:
The holy city of Pushkar lies 11km from Ajmer in Rajasthan, separated by Nag Pahar or the Snake Mountain. This small but vibrant town has narrow streets filled with local bazaars (markets), temples, restaurants and hotels. You can explore these markets at leisure since the main bazaar is closed for motorized traffic. Most of the people can speak some general English, and are ready to honor and help out their guests.

Information:
You can get your currency and traveler cheques exchanged at places along the Sadar Bazaar Road, but check the commission rates first. The post office can be found in the Main Bazaar. Internet is available but at high charges. Best time to visit Pushkar is between the months of October and May.

Sights:
Temples:
Aligning the ghats are several whitewashed temples with onion tinted domes, where regular prayers are conducted and flowers are offered. Most famous of the temples is the Brahma Temple, which is special because it is one of the very few Brahma Temples present in India. The temple belongs to the year 1809 and consists of a beautiful four faced idol of the Creator of Universe, Lord Brahma. On a hilltop is located the Saraswati temple, devoted to the Bestower of Knowledge, Goddess Saraswati. The temple faces the Pushkar lake and offers a brilliant view of the city.

One of the ancient temples that were destroyed by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb is the 12th century Varaha Temple, devoted to the half-boar-half-human form of Lord Vishnu. The temple still preserves exquisite carvings and sculptures which are worth appreciating. Other temples include Raghunath Temples, Aptaeshwar Temple, Pap Mochani Temple and a collection of other Lord Shiva Temples located near Ajaypal

Ghats:
Surrounding the sacred lake are fifty five bathing ghats were crowds of devotees are present, taking holy dips, believed to wash away one's sins. Some of the Ghats have special mythological significance like the Varaha Ghat is where Lord Vishnu is believed to have appeared and Lord Brahma is said to have bathed on the Brahma Ghat. Gandhi Ghat holds special importance since it was here that Mahatma Gandhi's ashes were immersed. It is important to respect the sentiments of the localites and follow some instructions while visiting the ghats. Footwear is not allowed inside. Activities like smoking, drinking, clicking photographs and videos is strictly prohibited.

Pushkar Fair (Oct-Nov):
One of the largest cattle fairs of the world, Pushkar fair is attended every year by many tourists from across the world, pilgrims from allover India and tribal folks of Rajasthan. It is celebrated in the Hindu month of Kartika for nine days. You will witness the cattle traders, with large turbans, bring along their cattles including camels, horses, cows and bulls to be sold in the market. Camel and Horse races add to the fun and excitement of the festival. Other cultural events and competitions take place too including folk dances and parades. The night view of the lake is amazing as devotees participate in 'Deepdan' in which diyas are floated into the lake after the Arti, making it sparkle like a star-studded sky.

Activities:
Apart from being a pilgrimage site, Pushkar is also a favorite destination among travelers because of activities and treatments that will cure you from within. For Reiki, Yoga and Shiatsu, you can consult Roshi Hiralal Verma at Baba Restaurant. Dr. N S Mathur is a professional Reflexologist, and also teaches Reiki. Music therapy can also cure you from several tensions and related diseases. Classical music and instruments can be learnt from the Saraswati Music School at Mainon Ka Chowk. For some fun, you can try out Camel and Horse Safaris to explore the nearby landscapes.

Dangers and Annoyances:
Some of the priests of the area may not be genuine, and demand an exorbitant amount for puja and offerings for your family members, who are alive or dead. You should be prepared to refuse such high donations and complaint to the tourist office, if they turn highly forceful or aggressive. Flowers or sweets can be offered at the Brahma temple if you would like to offer it to God to wish for wellness and happiness of your dear ones.

Sleeping:
You will find more of the budget and the mid range hotels than top end hotels in Pushkar. Don't expect over-the-top facilities here. It's better you see the rooms first before reserving one. Two of the few lavish hotels include the Jagat Singh Palace Hotel and Hotel Pushkar Palace. These hotels are equipped with good facilities and ambiance, including garden views, pools and large bedrooms. The mid-range ones include Hotel Navratan Palace, Hotel Peacock Holiday Resort, RTDC Hotel Sarovar, among others.

Eating:
Even though Non vegetarian food is strictly prohibited, including eggs, there are less chances that you will miss it because the cooks here make umpteen variety of superb vegetarian dishes. Buffet meals including stomach filling quantities of dishes at a nominal cost of Rs 35/ 45. Some of the restaurants popular for their ambiance and finger licking good food are Honey & Spice, Raju Terrace Garden Restaurant, Rainbow Restaurant, Sunset Cafe, Rainbow Restaurant and Moon Dance.

Shopping:
You can pick up some of the specialties of Pushkar from its local bazaars such as colorful textiles, silver beaded jewelery, multi shaded lamps, embroidered wall hangings, puppets, leather goods, pottery, etc. The main market of Pushkar has many small shops that offer these souvenirs. Khadi Gramudyog at Sadar Bazaar is the best place to buy textiles from.

Getting There & Away:
Private buses belonging to various travel agencies are easily available from Pushkar to Ajmer , Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Agra and Delhi. Rajasthan Roadways run comfortable coaches from Jaipur too. Trains can be taken from Ajmer Railway Station, tickets for the same can be booked through travel agencies for around Rs 50.

Getting Around:
From the bus stand you can take an auto rickshaw, which is easily available and less costly too. Cycles and bikes can be hired to move around the city. Since Pushkar is relatively a small town, you can also explore the nearby locations on foot.