Fun Activities To Do Around Pushkar Fair
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The Pushkar Fair is one of the most attractive, vibrant and enjoyable fairs in India which unmistakably reflects Rajasthan’s rich and colourful culture. The fair gives you a chance to discover the beauty of Rajasthan in all its glory. Exceptional exhibitions, thrilling competitions and captivating events are a few of many reasons to make visiting Pushkar Fair a priority in your to-do list. So, here is a list of various activities and cultural performances around Pushkar Fair you can enjoy.
1. Fly high on a hot air balloon
Taking a hot air balloon ride in Pushkar is a must if you have an adventurous spirit. Enjoying the aerial view of the colourful fair, while soaring high on a hot air balloon, is a unique and fascinating experience. There are a number of dealers in the fair that offer thrilling balloon flight experiences. You can also participate in other adventurous and exciting activities like paramotoring, camel safari, quad biking and horse riding. The cost of these activities varies from Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 16,000.
2. Don’t miss the Harmony Half Marathon
The Harmony Half Marathon held during the Pushkar Fair is a 14km run from Dargah Ajmer Sharif to Pushkar Stadium Ground. The run is held to honour the uniqueness of the remarkable state of Rajasthan. Anyone can register for participating in the marathon including foreign tourists.
3. Witness the unique competitions
The Pushkar Fair hosts various unique and fun competitions like moustache contest, bride and groom competition, matka race, camel dance and so on. Growing big and thick moustaches has always been a matter of pride among Rajasthani men and winning the moustache contest is glory for them. For participating in the bride and groom competition, people dress up in wedding attire and the best dressed participant is named the winner. Instead of just watching, you can even participate in the competitions to make it an unforgettable experience.
4. Explore Rajasthan’s art and craft at Shilpgram Handicrafts Bazaar
Shilpgram Handicrafts Bazaar becomes the epicentre of the country’s finest craftsmen during the Pushkar Fair. Rajasthan government promotes Shilpgram for the development of local artisans and craftsmen. You can find several stalls with a large variety of amazing items like traditional silver ornaments, garments of patchwork, traditional footwear, printed textiles from Ajmer, bead necklaces from Nagpur, the baba bags, wooden earrings, coconut earrings, bells, ethnic anklets, puppets, herbal products, gorgeous paintings and classic leather ware.
5. Tickle your taste buds
The Pushkar Fair offers a wide range of cuisines like Lebanese, Italian, Chinese, and Indian. The food is a bit expensive but it is extremely delicious and hygienic. The fair is famous for its Daal Baati Churma, which is one of the major dishes of Rajasthani cuisine and is definitely worth a try.
6. Witness cattle trading
The Pushkar Fair is also known as Camel Fair because camels and cattle trading is a key highlight of the fair. This activity is one of the most famous things in Pushkar. Hundreds and thousands of people bring their livestock- camels, cows, goats, horses and sheep to the fair. All the cattle owners gather around the Pushkar Lake with their ornately decorated cattle to sell and purchase the livestock. Witnessing this event can give you a chance to take a glimpse at the cattle trading practises that are going on from centuries.
7. Take a dip in the Pushkar Lake
One of the key aspects of the Pushkar Fair is the religious beliefs associated with it. Pushkar Lake is considered to be the holiest lake on the full moon night of the Hindu month of Kartik. It is believed that taking a bath in Pushkar Lake during this time will wash away all your sins and will bring you good fortune. A huge number of devotees from all religions visit the fair to take a blessed plunge in the lake.
8. Enjoy the recreation of the infamous cricket match from ‘Lagaan’
The fair features the recreation of the iconic cricket match from the popular Bollywood movie ‘Lagaan’. Locals dress in dhoti-kurta and play against foreign tourists. Organizers provide the necessary equipment and a trophy for the winning team. Only men are allowed to participate in the game. Several other games like kabaddi, Langri taang, volleyball, and matka phore are also played in the fair.
These were just a few of many incredible things to do around Pushkar Fair. So, start planning a trip to Pushkar to witness the vibrancy of Rajasthan’s one-of-a-kind culture in full swing.
FAQs
Q. When and where is the Pushkar Fair held?
The Pushkar Fair is organized in the small town of Pushkar which is situated in the district of Ajmer in Rajasthan. It is held on Kartik Purnima which is the full moon day in the Hindu month of Kartik. It generally falls in October or November. The fair will be held from 4th to 12th November in 2019.
Q. What is the history behind Pushkar Fair?
It is believed that centuries ago Lord Brahma sprung up the Pushkar Lake on Kartik Purnima and millions of Gods and Goddesses came to take a bath in the lake. The waters of this lake are believed to have healing powers. This is why thousands of devotees visit the fair to take a plunge in the holy lake.
Q. What are the best places to stay while visiting Pushkar Fair?
Pushkar is a renowned tourist spot that offers an extensive range of choices for favourable accommodation. Some of the most famous hotels and resorts in and around Pushkar are:
- Ananta Resort– Located in Leela Sevri village just 4 km away from the Pushkar.
- Bhanwar Singh Palace– Located in village Hokra, Pushkar.
- Dera Masuda– Located on Motisar Road, Pushkar
- Jagat Palace– Located behind the Ramdwara, Pushkar
Q. What is the best way to reach Pushkar?
- By air: The nearest airport to Pushkar is Sanganer Airport in Jaipur which is 146 km away.
- By train: The nearest railway station is Pushkar Terminus Railway Station which is just 11 km away.
- By road: Pushkar is well-linked to the major highways of Rajasthan. Frequent bus services from major cities like Jaipur, Ajmer and Jodhpur are available.
Q. Are there some tips I should remember while visiting Pushkar Fair?
- Remember to book your tickets and accommodation in advance.
- Make sure to pack your sunscreen and mosquito repellent.
- Try to participate in as many activities as you can.
