The Pushkar Camel Fair, also known as Pushkar Mela, is a vibrant and colorful annual multi-day livestock fair and cultural fete held in the town of Pushkar, Rajasthan, India. The fair primarily focuses on the trading of camels, cattle, and horses, and it has evolved into a major tourist attraction featuring a range of activities such as camel races, cultural performances, exhibitions, and competitions.
The Pushkar Camel Fair is typically held in the late October to November period, coinciding with the Kartik Purnima (full moon night of the Kartik month in the Hindu lunar calendar). The dates may vary each year depending on the lunar calendar, so it is advisable to check the calendar for the specific year of your visit.
The duration of the Pushkar Camel Fair is usually around five to seven days, leading up to the Kartik Purnima. The festivities might extend up to two weeks, with the first half primarily dedicated to livestock trading and the latter half focusing more on religious activities and cultural events.
The main attractions at the Pushkar Camel Fair include camel trading, camel beauty contests, camel races, folk music and dance performances, traditional Rajasthani attire, handicraft stalls, amusement rides, food stalls offering local cuisine, hot air ballooning, and spiritual activities like holy dips in the sacred Pushkar Lake and evening aartis (prayer rituals).
Yes, the Pushkar Camel Fair is not only a cultural and commercial event, but it also holds religious significance for many Hindus. Thousands of pilgrims flock to Pushkar to take a dip in the holy Pushkar Lake during the fair, as it is believed that bathing there during Kartik Purnima brings salvation and washes away sins. The fair converges with many religious ceremonies, including prayers and rituals at the over 500 temples, especially the Brahma Temple, which is one of the few existing temples dedicated to the Hindu god Brahma.
Tourists planning to visit the Pushkar Camel Fair should book accommodations well in advance as the town becomes crowded. Also, be aware of local customs and respectful of religious practices. Dress modestly, negotiate prices if buying souvenirs, be prepared for large crowds, and ensure you're well-hydrated. It's recommended to check the schedule of events to plan your visit accordingly. Additionally, visitors should keep in mind that November can be chilly in the mornings and evenings, so packing some warm clothing is advisable.
There are no general entry fees for attending the Pushkar Camel Fair. However, specific events within the fair, such as cultural performances or adventure activities like hot air ballooning, may charge a fee. It's best to inquire locally or check with your tour operator for the most up-to-date information.
Pushkar is well connected by road and the nearest airport is in Jaipur, which is approximately 150 km away. From Jaipur, one can take a bus, train, or hire a taxi to reach Pushkar. The nearest railway station is in Ajmer, which is 11 km from Pushkar, and from Ajmer, local taxis, buses, and shared auto-rickshaws are available to reach Pushkar.
Photography enthusiasts visiting the Pushkar Camel Fair will find numerous opportunities for capturing the vibrant culture and lively atmosphere. It's recommended to carry enough memory cards and batteries, as charging facilities may not always be available. Early mornings and late evenings offer great light for photography. Always seek permission before photographing local people, especially during religious ceremonies. Using a polarizing filter can help manage the bright desert sunlight and enhance the colors of the fair.
During the Pushkar Camel Fair, accommodation options range from budget stays to luxury tents and hotel rooms. There are camping tents, guest houses, and hotels available in and around Pushkar. Luxury Swiss tents with modern amenities are also set up exclusively for the festival. But, given the popularity of the fair, it's essential to book accommodations well in advance.
