Things To Do
in Pushkar
Pushkar is a sacred desert town in Rajasthan built around the holy Pushkar Lake. Its skyline is marked by the Brahma Temple, pastel-hued havelis, and busy ghats that echo with pilgrims and traders. The town swells with life during festivals, most famously the Pushkar Camel Fair, when camels and colors spill into the plains.
A gentle rhythm between lakeside walks, markets, and rooftop cafes gives Pushkar a timeless, wanderer-friendly charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the serene Pushkar Lake, where the soft hues of dawn reflect beautifully on the water. Join the locals in a morning ritual of bath and prayer, immersing yourself in the spiritual ambiance of this holy site. The peaceful atmosphere and the gentle sound of water will rejuvenate your spirit for the day's adventures.
After a hearty breakfast, visit the Brahma Temple, one of the few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma in the world. Marvel at its intricate architecture and learn about the myths surrounding this ancient deity. A leisurely stroll through the nearby bazaars will introduce you to local crafts and vibrant textiles.
As the sun sets, find a spot by the lake to witness the mesmerizing sunset reflecting on the water, creating a picturesque scene. Indulge in traditional Rajasthani cuisine at a local restaurant, savoring flavors from dal baati churma to gatte ki sabzi. The nightlife in Pushkar can be serene; enjoy a quiet walk along the ghats, witnessing the evening aarti rituals.
Rise early for a thrilling camel safari into the majestic desert landscape surrounding Pushkar. The soft morning light casts enchanting shadows on the dunes, making for stunning views and memorable photographs. Engage with local guides, who will share their knowledge about desert life and culture.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the heart of the desert, taking in the vastness and tranquility around you. After lunch, explore the rural village nearby, where you can interact with locals and witness traditional crafting techniques. This experience provides a glimpse into the daily life of the Rajasthan desert communities.
Return to Pushkar in the evening for a traditional folk music performance under the stars. The tunes of Rajasthani musicians will transport you to another world, blending with the sounds of the desert night. Wind down with a relaxing chai at a local café, mingling with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| 🥤Cup of chai or coffee | $0.5-2 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (3-5 km) | $3-6 |
| 💧Bottled water (1L) | $0.3-0.5 |
| 🛍️Handicraft souvenir | $5-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and spiritual atmosphere
- Compact and walkable town with easy day trips to Ajmer
- Can be crowded during festival periods
- Desert heat in summer and cooler nights in winter can be intense for sensitive travelers
- "Namaste" - Hello / Good day
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Kripya" - Please
- "Ye kitna hai?" - How much is this?
- "Mujhe madad chahiye" - I need help
- "Aapka naam kya hai?" - What is your name?
Places to Visit in Pushkar
Visit one of these nice places.
Calm water, pilgrims, and temple silhouettes create pristine reflections and a serene atmosphere for photography.
Temple domes, stonework, and pilgrims provide rich architectural and cultural photographic opportunities.
Panoramic vistas over the lake and town from the hillside; a great spot for golden hour shots.
Colorful textiles, jewelry, and bustling stalls with dramatic lighting for vibrant street photography.
Dunes and desert skies at dusk offer striking silhouettes and expansive, empty horizons.
Food in Pushkar
Pushkar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Rajasthan trio: baked wheat balls (baati) served with dal and a sweet churma; a staple on many thalis.
Must-Try!
Desert beans and dried berries cooked with spices, typically served with bajra roti; a signature desert-vegetarian dish.
Gram flour dumplings simmered in a tangy curry; a common and comforting Rajasthani curry.
A warm dessert made from millet or wheat flakes, jaggery or sugar, and ghee; a comforting end to meals.
Onion-filled pastry often enjoyed as a street snack; crisp, savory, and flavorful.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main traditional market by the lake and temple area; look for street chaat, kachori, lassi, and an array of handicrafts.
Casual stalls along the Pushkar Lake serving snacks, fresh chai, and sweets; great for a quick, flavorful bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees; remove shoes when required and follow local cues about conduct inside temples.
Politely request permission, especially in sacred or private settings; respect people’s privacy and religious practices.
Avoid loud conversations or disruptive behavior during pujas and ceremonies.
A verbal greeting like Namaste is common; a courteous, patient demeanor goes a long way with shopkeepers and locals.
Safety
Tipping in Pushkar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory. In restaurants, a 5–10% tip is common if service is good; round up taxi fares; tip guides 20–50 INR depending on service.
Cash is widely accepted; ATMs are available in town. Many places, especially tourist spots, also accept cards and digital wallets (UPI).
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot days (often 40°C+). Hydrate, carry water, wear a hat and sunscreen. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Occasional rainfall (July–September) with higher humidity. Some trails may be slippery; pleasant greenery appears around the countryside.
Cool to mild days with chilly nights (often 5–15°C). Excellent for sightseeing; pack warm layers and a shawl for evenings.
Pushkar at Night
Hiking in Pushkar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Stepped ascent to a hilltop temple offering panoramic views of Pushkar Lake and the desert beyond.
Easy to moderate walks along the outskirts of town with expansive desert and countryside vistas.
Short hike around the hill area overlooking Ajmer; often combined with a visit to nearby religious sites.
Airports
How to reach Pushkar by plane.
Nearest airport to Pushkar, located near Ajmer; domestic flights connect to major cities. Accessible by road in about 40–60 minutes to Pushkar, depending on traffic.
Larger international and domestic hub about 150–180 km from Pushkar; good flight connectivity and road/train options to Pushkar.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Rajasthani locals and pilgrims who visit the Brahma Temple and Pushkar Lake; a growing influx of domestic and international travelers.
Seasonal visitors drawn by religious sites, the lake, and the Camel Fair; diverse mix of ages and backgrounds.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed across Rajasthan; informal matches pop up in town and on school grounds.
Camel riding and camel fairs are a cultural staple; watch for camel polo-style games during festivals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pushkar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Pushkar is very vegetarian-friendly; most dishes are meat-free by default. If you avoid onions or garlic, ask for no onion/garlic options or Jain preparations, and verify during ordering as some dishes include ghee or dairy.