Pushkar, located in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan, is a timeless spiritual town with a rich mythological and cultural heritage. Though small in size, Pushkar offers profound experiences for pilgrims, backpackers, cultural explorers, and photographers alike. Known for its sacred lake and temples, it also surprises visitors with desert adventures, unique architectural marvels, and authentic Rajasthani culture.
This guide uncovers the 10 most captivating places to visit in Pushkar, including lesser-known insights and historical facts that many travelers often miss.
1. Pushkar Lake – The Spiritual Nucleus of the Town
Pushkar Lake is considered one of the most sacred water bodies in India. Legend states that it was created when a lotus flower fell from the hands of Lord Brahma, causing water to spring forth at the location. The lake is surrounded by 52 bathing ghats and over 500 temples.
What many visitors don’t realize is that each ghat around the lake has its own historical and spiritual significance. For example, the Varaha Ghat is associated with Lord Vishnu’s Varaha (boar) avatar, while Gau Ghat is where Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes were immersed.
Tip: Visit during early morning or at sunset for a deeply tranquil atmosphere and to witness local rituals performed by sadhus and priests.
2. Brahma Temple – A Rare Shrine Dedicated to the Creator
The Jagatpita Brahma Mandir is one of the few temples in the world dedicated to Lord Brahma. It is believed that Lord Brahma performed a yagna (ritual) here to create the universe. The current structure dates back to the 14th century, although it was originally built much earlier.
What most tourists overlook is that married men are traditionally not allowed to enter the inner sanctum of the temple. This is due to a mythological story involving Brahma’s wife Savitri, who cursed him for performing a ritual with another woman.
Architecture highlight: Look out for the silver coin flooring inside and the statue of the goose (Lord Brahma’s vahana or mount).
3. Savitri Temple – A Trek with a Divine Reward
Located on Ratnagiri Hill, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Savitri, the estranged consort of Lord Brahma. Reaching the temple requires either a ropeway ride or climbing over 200 steep steps — a pilgrimage in itself.
What makes it exceptional is the panoramic view of the entire Pushkar town and lake from the top, especially at sunrise. Unlike many other hill temples, this one retains a rustic, untouched charm.
Insider fact: There is a lesser-known Ida Devi shrine next to Savitri Temple, often missed by visitors but equally significant in local traditions.
4. Rangji Temple – An Unusual Architectural Fusion
The Rangji Temple stands out due to its Dravidian (South Indian) style gopuram (temple tower) — a rare sight in North India. Dedicated to Lord Rangji, an incarnation of Vishnu, the temple also features Rajput and Mughal architectural influences.
What many travelers do not know is that this temple belongs to the Vaishnavite sect of Tamil Nadu and is managed by priests from the South Indian Iyengar community.
Notable feature: Look for the intricately carved corridors and painted ceilings depicting scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
5. Varaha Temple – The Oldest Temple in Pushkar
Though less popular than the Brahma Temple, Varaha Temple is older and historically significant. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu’s boar avatar, this temple was once destroyed by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb and later rebuilt.
Unlike other temples in Pushkar, the Varaha Temple retains bold Rajasthani carvings and murals that speak volumes of ancient Indian temple architecture.
Travel tip: Visit early morning to avoid crowds and speak to the priests to learn ancient stories associated with the temple’s original foundation.
6. Gurudwara Singh Sabha – A Tranquil Sikh Heritage Site
This serene Gurudwara commemorates the visit of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Guru Gobind Singh Ji to Pushkar. While it may seem like a small religious site, its importance lies in its cross-religious harmony and hospitality.
Unlike other Gurudwaras, this one has a local Rajasthani architectural touch rather than the typical Sikh domes.
Local insight: You can participate in langar (community meal) here — a perfect example of Sikh seva (selfless service) and hospitality.
7. Pushkar Bazaar – A Cultural Kaleidoscope
Pushkar’s main market is a lively place filled with colorful textiles, leather goods, silver jewelry, and spiritual souvenirs. Most tourists buy standard items, but if you explore deeper into side alleys, you’ll find local perfumers offering handmade ittar (traditional natural perfumes) and rare herbs.
Best buys include:
- Hand-painted miniatures on camel leather
- Natural rosewater (Pushkar is famous for rose cultivation)
- Handcrafted prayer beads and Rudraksha malas
Avoid tourist traps by shopping in early mornings or negotiating politely with local artisans.
8. Man Mahal – Royal Heritage by the Lake
Originally built by Raja Man Singh I of Amber, Man Mahal was a royal retreat and now serves as a heritage hotel. It is the best-preserved palace structure in Pushkar and offers stunning views of the lake.
Many visitors don’t realize that the palace is designed on traditional haveli principles, including a central courtyard, jharokhas (balconies), and airy verandahs.
Pro tip: Even if you don’t stay here, you can visit its restaurant for breakfast with a view or enjoy photography from its terrace.
9. Desert Safari in the Pushkar Sand Dunes
Just a few kilometers outside town, Pushkar opens into the fringes of the Thar Desert. Camel safaris here offer a more peaceful alternative to those in Jaisalmer. Travelers can choose between half-day, sunset, or overnight safaris.
What sets Pushkar apart is the option for offbeat desert villages where you can interact with local communities, watch traditional Rajasthani folk music and even try milking a camel.
Hidden gem: Opt for a jeep safari during off-season months to explore secret sandstone canyons and ancient caravan routes.
10. Pushkar Camel Fair Ground – A Cultural Phenomenon
The Pushkar Camel Fair, held every year in November (coinciding with Kartik Purnima), is one of the largest livestock fairs in the world. The fairgrounds transform into a vibrant festival site with camel races, cultural contests, craft stalls, and folk performances.
What most people miss is the pre-fair period, when traders start arriving a week early to settle in. This is the best time for authentic photography and interactions without tourist crowds.
Must-do: Attend the ‘matka phod’ (pot-breaking) or longest mustache competition for a truly local experience.
Final Thoughts
Pushkar is not just a religious destination — it’s a mosaic of history, mythology, art, and desert culture. Unlike other tourist towns, Pushkar retains an organic charm where temples, lake rituals, royal heritage, and rustic experiences coexist naturally. Exploring the hidden sides of this town reveals its deeper magic.