Pushkar lake

Situated in the small city of Puskar in the Ajmer district, under the state of Rajasthan, India, the Pushkar lake is one of the most popular pilgrim sites as well as the site of the world-famous Pushkar Fair.

Surrounded by numerous temples and ghats, the lake draws thousands and thousands of devotees every year to its threshold, to gain spiritual distinction and reach salvation by taking a dip into the holy water of this lake.

However, it is a major tourist destination in India. It attracts both Indian and foreign tourists equally. This lake is surrounded by 52 ghats (bathing spots) and more than 500 temples. This lake is regarded as a sacred lake for Hindu pilgrims. There are five sacred lakes collectively called Panch-Sarovar, named Mansarovar, Bindu Sarovar, Narayan Sarovar, Pampa Sarovar, and Pushkar Sarovar, according to Hindu theology. Pushkar Lake or Pushkar Sarover is the most significant lake among them.

This sacred lake is visited by a huge number of devotees every year from different parts of the world. Devotees come here to take a dip in the holy water of the lake.

Attraction

One of the central attractions at the lake is the Pushkar fair. During the time of the fair, a huge number of pilgrims and tourists come here from different places of the world. The great Pushkar fair starts at Prabhodini Ekadashi and ends at Kartik Poornima. It is not only a favorable time for the pilgrims to gain spiritual merit by taking a bath in the holy water but also a great opportunity for business for the locals when travelers arrive here to be a part of the colorful festival. It is considered to be the largest camel fair in Asia. Anybody would love to be a part of this grand fair.

History

Scene of Pushkar lake during Pushkar Camel fair. Pilgrims from all over the India come to take holy bath at this religious Pushkar lake.

Pushkar lake has a long history. Its history of it dates back to the 4th century BC and the creation of this lake as an artificial lake dates back to the 12th century.

The Mughal emperor Jahangir set up a hunting lodge on the shore of this lake in 1615-16. He used to come here when he was in Ajmer which is about 20 km away from Pushkar. Later between 1618-1707 the grandson of Jahangir, ‘Aurangzeb destroyed some of the temples which were built again afterward.

The Rajput rulers of Amber, Bundi Bikaner, and Jaisalmer gave the most efforts to re-established the importance of the lakes and surrounding temples. Many rulers like Maharaja Man Singh I of Amber, Maharana Pratap, and Daulat Rao Scindia also established some ghats and temples.

According to archaeological dating, this lake says that it existed even in the 4th century BC. Many Rajput rulers and local chiefs tried to restore the significance and glory of Pushkar over time. The lake lost its significance just during the Mughal period without the reign of Akber.

Inside/Outside Views

Beautiful view of Pushkar city from atop with Pushkar Lake.

Pushkar lake has great significance to Hindu pilgrims. It is one of the most important holy sites for Hindus all over the world. This place is mainly assessed for religious purposes. It is encircled by 52 ghats and over 509 temples with various religious significance.

People from all over the world come here to take a dip in the sacred water of this lake. Taking bath in this lake during Kartik Poornima, in the month of Kartik (October-November) has special importance. It is considered to be a highly auspicious place. It is believed by the devotees that taking a bath in the water of Pushkar lake during Kartika washes all the sins of the devotees.

Ramayana and Mahabharata refer to this lake as Adi-Tirtha and it is also counted as the supremely sacred lake among the Panch-Sarovar. It is also the home to the world’s only Brahma Temple.

Ghats of Pushkar lake:

Pushkar lake is surrounded by 52 ghats. They are decorated with stone steps and are one of the most important parts of the lake. Originally there were 12 ghata at the lake but new ghats were made later. Each of them holds its significance.

The spiritual atmosphere at the ghats offers a close understanding of Hindu beliefs. 2 of the 52 ghats have special significance one is the Gau ghat and another is the Brahma ghat.

How to Reach

By air: The nearest airport to Pushkar lake is Jaipur airport. which is located at a distance of 148 km from the lake. It is well connected with the other major cities of India. You can find local transport like taxis and cabs at the airport. By hiring them you can reach the lake.

By train: The city of Pushkar is well connected by train with the other cities of the country. The nearest railway station to Pushkar lake is Ajmer railway station. It is 15 km away from the lake.

By Road: You can find local transport at the airport that can take you to the lake.

FAQ

Que-01: Is this place safe to visit?

Ans: Yes, it is a safe place for tourists. Every year thousands of people come to this sacred place. If you have any kind of problem here, you can contact the police. Here is the local police station location for you:

Location: Marwad Bus Stand, Pushkar, Rajasthan 305001, India

Phone no: +91 145 277 2046

Google map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/LxLMWCfDCerbPXET8

Que-02: Is photography allowed in this place?

Ans: This place is a perfect place for photography. Photo enthusiasts will love this place. There are many beautiful temples around the lake. The natural beauty of this place is a great subject for photography. The beautiful lakes give amazing backdrops for photos.

When is the best time to visit Pushkar lake:

The Pushkar lake can be visited at any time of the year. But the perfect time to visit the lake is from September to March. At this time the weather remains pleasant and cool. So, you can enjoy your trip and the famous Pushkar Fair takes place at that time. If you are planning to visit this place you may go during these months. It will be a lifetime experience for you.

Places to visit near Pushkar lake: