Introduction

A serene lake, glittering below the bright blue desert sky, Pushkar is one of the holiest pilgrimages in Hinduism. Said to be as old as the Vedic Purans, the lake is the center of this small holy town and draws thousands of visitors every year. The lake’s natural beauty is almost dramatic and enhanced by the 52 ghats and 400-odd temples, most painted a saintly white, that surround it.

Of the many holy towns in India, Pushkar has the distinction of being the only site dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator of the world according to Hindu beliefs and mythology. Folklore and popular belief has it that Lord Brahma dropped a lotus from the celestial skies, and the holy lake formed at the spot where the flower touched the earth. The water of the lake is said to have healing powers and a dip in its holy waters is one of the five dhams of Hinduism.

Thousands of devotees visit the lake every year, the most on the night of Kartik Poornima, a full moon night that may fall sometime in November, to take a dip in the lake and cleanse their immortal souls of sin and attain salvation. The lake holds special spiritual significance for Hindus.

Of the many ghats and temples that surround the lake, each has its own significance and prowess. For example, Naga Kund is believed to boost fertility, while waters at Roop Tirth bless one with beauty and charm, Kapil Vyapi Kund can cure leprosy, while Mrikand Muni Kund is supposed to grant wisdom. At anytime, you will find devotees queuing up for a dip. You will also find several priests on hand to help you in prayer. Needless to say, their expert assistance will not be free!

One of the most important lakeside temples is dedicated to Lord Brahma and his wife Savitri. The temple is a popular tourist spot and you just need to follow another tourist’s lead to get there. The grand Man Mahal Palace built by Raja Man Singh is located near its bank; it is now converted into a tourist bungalow.

Pushkar Lake is just an 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) from the city of Ajmer, a drive across the snake-like mountain, Nag Parbat. Spread over 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) of the most scenic Rajasthan valley, the lake is a cool retreat at the edge of the Thar Desert. Pilgrims to this town can experience serenity that is often missing in even the most revered of sites.

Special Attributes

The holy lake is surrounded by 52 bathing ghats, 400 temples and numerous palaces.

Nuisance

Over the years, the lake has become highly polluted. Thus while taking the blessings of the water, be sure to just dip your fingers, do not let the water touch your eyes.

Dressing restrictions

Dress conservatively while visiting the lake. You must also leave your shoes well away from the ghats.

Connectivity

On foot, cycle, autorickshaw

Enjoyed by

All

Exposure

The area around the lake, is slightly cooler than rest of the city thus comfortable cotton clothes, which are conservative and not revealing are ideal. The footwear should be easy to remove as it has to be removed before entering the Ghat.

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

Basic, prepare accordingly.

Things Not Allowed

Lighters, inflammable items, arms and Weapons, cameras, camcorders, outside food

Tip

Remove footwear at least 15 meters away from the Ghats, and have a stroll along them, taking in the religious ceremonies being performed. Also, do not photograph either the religious rituals or pilgrims who bathe in the holy water.

Type of site

Religious