| The northwestern Indian state of Rajasthan remains steeped in religious myths and legends. Among the many Hindu pilgrimage centres located in the state, Pushkar has its own unique place. Featuring the only Brahma Temple in the world, the holy town of Pushkar is also known for the Pushkar Lake, associated with legends. Apart from pilgrimage, the biggest crowd puller in the town is the annually held Pushkar Fair, the largest cattle fair held anywhere in the world. So, during your tour to Pushkar, you can visit the Hindu temples, the holy Pushkar Lake and also be a part of the world’s largest cattle fair.
Best Time to Visit
The months between October and March are most ideal to make a tour to Pushkar in Rajasthan. The pilgrimage season is during October-November.
Mythological Background
Countless myths and legends surround the origin of the town and the Pushkar Lake. A holy dip in the divine waters of the Pushkar Lake is what every devotee coming here craves for. A dip in the lake is believed to wash away an individual’s sins committed in the past. Legend has it that the Pushkar Lake was created by Lord Brahma when he dropped a lotus on the Full Moon Day. Hindus also believe that Lord Brahma and other gods of the Hindu pantheon observed a ‘yagna’ at the Brahma Temple in Pushkar.
Places to See
While on your pilgrimage tour in Pushkar, you have the opportunity to visit a number of Hindu temples dedicated to different gods and goddesses.
Brahma Temple
It is the biggest pilgrimage attraction in Pushkar. Dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe, the Brahma Temple enshrines a foru-head idol of the lord. The floor is decorated with black-and-white tiles which remain studded with silver coins.
Pushkar Lake
Since it is the site where Lord Brahma observed ‘yagya’, Hindus hold in high regard. During the pilgrimage season, devotees can be noticed taking a dip in the holy waters of the lake to rid themselves of their past sins.
Savitri Temple
The temple stands in dedication to Savitri, Lord Brahma’s consort. Perched atop a hill in Pushkar, the temple also affords some heart stirring views of the lake and the dunes across the desert.
Rangnath Temple
It is interesting to note that the design of the Rangnath Temple follows the southern Indian architectural style. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple is also known for its high ‘gopurams’ and pillars engraved with images of gold.
Reaching the Pilgrimage Site
The closest domestic airport from Pushkar is Jaipur (the capital city of Rajasthan), 138 km away. Regular train services link the town with places like Delhi, Agra, Jaipur and Udaipur among others. Frequent private and public buses are available to reach Pushkar from key destinations in Rajasthan as well as from Delhi.
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