Pushkar Camel Fair is one of the most colorful and famous festivals in India. Every year, people from India and many other countries visit Pushkar to see this grand event. The fair shows the true culture of Rajasthan. You can see camels, folk dances, local food, music, and religious rituals all in one place.
This fair is not only about camels. It is also about faith, tradition, fun, and local life. If you want to experience real Rajasthan, you must plan a visit to the Pushkar Camel Fair at least once. Many travelers include this colorful event in their Rajasthan tour packages to enjoy the true culture of the state.
What Is the Pushkar Camel Fair?
Pushkar Camel Fair is a large cultural and livestock fair held in the town of Pushkar, Rajasthan. Local traders bring thousands of camels, horses, and cattle to sell and buy. The camels wear colorful decorations, bells, and cloths.
Along with animal trading, the fair offers many cultural events. You can enjoy camel races, beauty contests, folk music, dance shows, and rural games. The fair also attracts pilgrims because Pushkar is a holy town.
When Is Pushkar Camel Fair Held?
The Pushkar Camel Fair takes place every year in the Hindu month of Kartik. The fair usually falls in October or November.
The main fair days end on Kartik Purnima, which is a full moon day. This day holds great religious value. Many devotees take a holy bath in Pushkar Lake on this day.
The full fair lasts for about 7 to 9 days, including trading days and cultural programs.
Where Is Pushkar Camel Fair Located?
The Pushkar Camel Fair takes place in Pushkar town, which lies in Ajmer district of Rajasthan. Pushkar sits around 15 km from Ajmer city.
The fairground spreads across large open areas near Pushkar town. During the fair, this area turns into a colorful desert village filled with tents, animals, shops, and stages.
How to Reach Pushkar
Reaching Pushkar is easy because many travel options are available.
By Air
The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport, around 150 km from Pushkar. From Jaipur, you can take a taxi or bus to Pushkar.
By Train
Ajmer Junction is the nearest railway station. Many trains from Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, and other cities stop here. From Ajmer, buses and taxis reach Pushkar in about 30 minutes.
By Road
Pushkar connects well by road. Regular buses run from Jaipur, Ajmer, Jodhpur, and Udaipur. You can also hire a private taxi for comfort.
Pushkar Camel Fair Highlights
The Pushkar Camel Fair offers many exciting highlights:
- Thousands of camels with colorful decorations
- Camel races and camel beauty contests
- Folk music and Kalbelia dance performances
- Hot air balloon rides over the fairground
- Traditional Rajasthani markets
- Sunset views from Pushkar desert dunes
- Religious rituals at Pushkar Lake
Every corner of the fair gives you perfect photo moments.
Religious Significance of Pushkar Fair
Pushkar is one of the most sacred towns in India. According to Hindu belief, Lord Brahma created Pushkar Lake. Pushkar has the only Brahma Temple in the world.
During Kartik Purnima, pilgrims take a holy dip in Pushkar Lake. People believe this bath washes away sins and brings blessings. Many devotees also perform prayers, donate food, and take part in rituals during the fair.
Things to Do at Pushkar Camel Fair
You will never feel bored at the Pushkar Camel Fair. Here are some popular things to do:
- Watch camel trading and camel parades
- Enjoy camel races and rural competitions
- Attend folk dance and music shows
- Take a camel ride in the desert
- Try hot air balloon rides
- Shop for handicrafts and souvenirs
- Visit temples and ghats in Pushkar
- Taste local Rajasthani food
Each day brings something new and exciting.
Pushkar Camel Fair Events Schedule
The event schedule changes slightly every year, but most activities follow a pattern:
Early Days
- Camel and cattle trading
- Setting up camps and markets
- Local competitions
Middle Days
- Camel races
- Camel decoration contests
- Folk dance and music programs
- Cultural shows
Final Day (Kartik Purnima)
- Holy bath at Pushkar Lake
- Religious ceremonies
- Grand closing celebrations
You should check the official schedule before your visit.
Accommodation Options in Pushkar
Pushkar offers many stay options during the fair:
Luxury Tents
Luxury desert camps give comfort with a cultural touch. These tents offer attached bathrooms, meals, and folk programs.
Mid-Range Hotels
Many hotels and guesthouses provide clean rooms at fair prices.
Budget Guesthouses
Budget travelers can stay in simple lodges and dharamshalas.
Homestays
Local families also offer homestays for a warm experience.
Book your stay early because rooms fill fast during the fair.
What to Eat at Pushkar Camel Fair
Food lovers enjoy Pushkar Camel Fair a lot. You can try many local dishes:
- Dal Baati Churma
- Kachori and Samosa
- Malpua and Ghewar
- Lassi and Masala Chai
- Street snacks and sweets
Pushkar also serves many vegetarian and international food options, especially for foreign tourists.
What to Buy at Pushkar Fair
Shopping at Pushkar Fair is fun and affordable. Popular items include:
- Camel leather bags and footwear
- Silver jewelry and beads
- Colorful turbans and clothes
- Handcrafted souvenirs
- Rajasthani paintings and puppets
Always bargain politely while shopping.
Best Time to Visit Pushkar Camel Fair
The best time to visit Pushkar Camel Fair is during the main fair days, usually around Kartik Purnima.
Weather stays pleasant during October and November. Days feel warm, and nights feel cool. This weather makes sightseeing and outdoor events comfortable.
Travel Tips for Pushkar Camel Fair
Follow these tips for a smooth trip:
- Book hotels and transport in advance
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes
- Carry sunscreen, hats, and water bottles
- Respect local culture and religious places
- Keep cash for shopping and food stalls
- Follow safety rules during events
Good planning will help you enjoy the fair fully.
Pushkar Camel Fair for Foreign Tourists
Foreign tourists love Pushkar Camel Fair for its culture and colors. Many visitors come from Europe, America, and Asia.
Pushkar offers a friendly environment, English-speaking guides, and tourist services. Foreign travelers should follow local customs, dress modestly, and respect religious beliefs.
The fair also offers great chances for photography and cultural learning.
Nearby Attractions Around Pushkar
You can explore many nearby places along with the fair:
- Brahma Temple – Famous and sacred temple
- Pushkar Lake – Holy lake with ghats
- Ajmer Sharif Dargah – Major Sufi shrine
- Ana Sagar Lake – Peaceful lake in Ajmer
- Taragarh Fort – Historic fort near Ajmer
These places add more value to your trip.
Pushkar Camel Fair Tour Packages
Many travel companies offer Pushkar Camel Fair Tour Packages. These packages include:
- Hotel or tent stay
- Guided fair visits
- Cultural show tickets
- Transport services
- Sightseeing tours
Tour packages save time and offer comfort, especially for first-time visitors.
Conclusion
Pushkar Camel Fair is more than a festival. It shows the soul of Rajasthan. The fair brings together culture, faith, tradition, and joy. Camels, colors, music, and rituals create a magical experience.
If you love travel, culture, photography, or festivals, Pushkar Camel Fair deserves a place on your travel list. Plan well, respect local traditions, and enjoy every moment of this unforgettable journey.
