Pushkar Travel Guide: Temples, Cafes & Camel Fair Highlights

Nestled along the edge of the Thar Desert, Pushkar is one of India’s oldest and most spiritually vibrant towns. Revered as a pilgrimage site and famous for the legendary Pushkar Camel Fair, this small Rajasthani city packs a mighty punch for travelers seeking a mix of spirituality, bohemian vibes, and cultural adventure. Whether you're drawn by the sacred Pushkar Lake, its colorful markets, or the lively rooftop cafes overlooking the ghats, Pushkar offers a unique and soulful experience.

Here’s your complete Pushkar travel guide with all the essential tips on temples, cafes, camel fair highlights, and how to explore this charming town like a local.

1. Top Temples to Visit in Pushkar

Pushkar is a sacred city with over 500 temples, but here are the must-visit ones that capture its spiritual heart:

🌟 Brahma Temple (Jagatpita Brahma Mandir)

• Why Visit: One of the very few temples in the world dedicated to Lord Brahma.

• Location: Near Pushkar Lake

• Highlights: Marble steps, red spire, and mythological connection to the origin of Pushkar.

🌟 Savitri Temple

• Why Visit: Stunning hilltop views of Pushkar town and lake.

• How to Reach: A steep climb or take the ropeway for scenic aerial views.

• Best Time: Sunrise or sunset for a magical experience.

🌟 Varaha Temple

• Why Visit: Dedicated to Lord Vishnu’s boar incarnation.

• Highlight: One of Pushkar’s oldest temples with beautiful architecture.

🌟 Rangji Temple

• Why Visit: A mix of Mughal, South Indian, and Rajput styles.

• Unique For: Its architectural fusion rarely seen elsewhere in Rajasthan.

  

  

  

2. Best Cafes in Pushkar: Eat, Chill & Watch the Sunset

Pushkar is a bohemian paradise with a laid-back café culture. Here are some of the best places to eat and relax:

☕️ Elephant Pushkar

• Famous For: It’s tasty food with great ambiance in surrounding, a place which feels like your home.

• Why Go: Peaceful vibe, great music, and ideal for digital nomads, families, friends or solo travelers.

☕️ Café Lake View

• Famous For: Sunset views over the ghats and delicious Indian-Continental fusion.

• Try: Masala chai and hummus platters.

☕️ Honey & Spice

• Highlight: Health-focused meals, smoothies, and fresh salads.

• Popular With: International backpackers and wellness-focused travelers.

☕️ Nirvana Café

• Ambience: Cosy low seating, indoor garden vibe, and bookshelves.

• Why Visit: Great for chilling out after a long walk through the markets.

  

  

3. Pushkar Camel Fair: What to Expect & When to Go

The Pushkar Camel Fair, or Pushkar Mela, is one of India’s most iconic festivals. Held every year in November during Kartik Purnima, this vibrant event brings together thousands of camels, cattle, traders, folk artists, and tourists.

🌟 Major Highlights:

• Camel Trading: See thousands of camels being dressed, paraded, and sold.

• Cultural Shows: Folk dances, mustache competitions, puppet shows, and more.

• Spiritual Bathing: Pilgrims bathe in Pushkar Lake during the full moon for spiritual cleansing.

• Rural Olympics: Watch unique events like camel races, turban tying, and tug-of-war.

  
  
  

  

  
  
  

📝 Travel Tip:

Book your accommodation and cab service in advance as Pushkar gets fully booked during the fair. Elephant Cabs offers pre-booked rides from Jaipur, Ajmer, and Jodhpur for seamless travel.