The Pushkar Mela, also called the Pushkar Camel Fair, is a massive annual agricultural festival that unites thousands of camels, cattle, and horses. In addition to livestock trading, the fair features camel and horse races, cultural displays, exhibitions, magic shows, contests like the longest mustache and bridal competitions, and various other activities. The Pushkar festival attracts about a million visitors from all over India and is free of charge.
Events & Activities
The event's stars, the camels, are the focal points of the Pushkar Fair. You can see camel shows and activities, from camel dances and parades to beauty pageants and auctions. The Fair also features a cattle fair where owners bring their dressed-up camels, horses, cows, goats, and sheep for sale. Cultural performances like folk dances, acrobats, matka phod competitions, and bride and groom contests are held throughout the fair. Pushkar Fair timings from 9:00 am to 5.00 pm.
Since recently, hot-air balloon flights have become the most exciting part of the Pushkar Mela. The amazing Balloon Safari takes place twice a day; at 5 am and 4:30 pm. The flight takes about one hour, depending on the weather conditions. You will get a unique chance to admire the view of Pushkar Lake from 1,200 ft (366 m).
At Pushkar Fair, gourmands can enjoy diverse cuisines like Indian, Italian, Chinese, and Lebanese. It's the delicious Rajasthani food, especially Dal Baati Churma, that stands out as a must-try treat. In addition to camel races, stalls, and food, Pushkar Fair holds religious significance. Locals bathe in the sacred Pushkar Lake, join Maha Aarti, and perform rituals like Deepandaan and Pushkar Abhishek. Each evening, there is a cultural show by the campfire performed by the best local artists, dancers, and musicians.
History of the festival
According to Hindu mythology, the 330 Hindu deities assembled at Pushkar Lake on Purnima (full moon night) to sanctify the lake, bestowing upon it sacredness and reputed healing qualities. This is why numerous pilgrims seek a holy bath in Pushkar Lake to cleanse their sins and also pay homage at the unique Brahma Mandir, the sole temple of its kind in India.
