Pushkar Rajasthan

The sacred site of Pushkar is located at a distance of 11 km North West of Ajmer in the vibrant state of Rajasthan. The town is considered to be among the five sacred Dhams for Hindus. There are some 500 temples and 52 Ghats encircles the Lake Pushkar and among them some temples are the most visited. In the recent years it has become a popular destination not only for locals but also for the foreigners. The holy dip in Pushkar Lake on Kartika Purnima is thought to be salvation giving. Among the various temples dotted the lake the major attraction is the temple of Lord Brahma. It is the only temple in India dedicated to Lord Brahma. According to a popular belief the ancient lake has appeared miraculously when the lotus fell from the hands of Lord Brahma and dropped into this valley. Although the present temple structure dates to 14th century but it is believed that the temple is around 2000 years old. The temple is mainly built of marble and stone stabs with a red pinnacle and a bird motif. The temple sanctum holds the central images of Lord Brahma and his second consort Gaytri. The priests of Brahma Temple are only from Gujjar community known as Bhopas as the second wife of Lord Brahma belongs to Gujjar community.

Besides the religious importance of Pushkar the other major attraction of the places is Pushkar Camel Fair. Every year the place comes alive in the joyous festivities, cultural extravaganza and cattle marketing. The fair is one of the major cultural reflector of the most colorful and vibrant state Rajasthan. The fair held on the Kartik Purnima which falls on the months of October or November and continues for five days. Apart from the religious rituals and festivities people participate in number of cultural events and activities. The variety of folk dances and music lend vivid splashes of color in the atmosphere that is already charged with the excitement of camel races and the cattle fair. The whole fair is a unique combination of devotees, traders and travelers who came from all parts of India to take part in this magnificent place named Pushkar.