Pushkar Lake and its precincts are world famous for the annual Pushkar Fair or Pushkar Mela. The fair, which is both a religious and economic event in Rajasthan is a huge tourist attraction. It coincides with a very large gathering of pilgrims during Kartik Purnima when a huge number of pilgrims throng Pushkar lake to take a holy dip in the lake.
The Pushkar Fair; also, Asia’s largest camel fair, starts on Prabodhini Ekadashi, it is the 11th lunar day in the bright fortnight and ends 7 days later. The original intention of the British for organizing the Pushkar Camel Fair was to attract animal tradesmen and collect taxes from commercial activities.
The dates of the festival keep changing according to the Hindu lunar calendar. However, Kartik Purnima, when the full Moon arises for the month of Kartik (October–November) is the most important day of the fair. Kartik Purnima or the last day of the fair is also the most important day of the fair. Kartik Purnima is the day when Brahma is believed to have concluded his Yagna of establishing the lake.
The livestock fair also called Kartik Mela or Pushkar ka Mela is held in honor of God Brahma, and coincides with a ritual bath on Kartik Poornima in Pushkar Lake that leads to salvation. Circling the three Pushkars’ on Kartik Purnima day is considered highly auspicious.
The colorful and lively Pushkar Camel Fair is one of the world’s largest cattle fairs and reportedly attracts over 200,000 people and over 50,000 camels are traded. Full moon day in the Hindu lunar month of Kartik is known to be very propitious. The fair was held on the banks of Pushkar lake, during that time is known for showcasing colorfully decorated camels that are paraded in the sand dunes on the southern end of the lake. Tribals from several neighboring villages of Pushkar attend the fair in their traditional attire. The camel fair is organized jointly by the Pushkar Municipal Board, Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC), and the Animal Husbandry Department of Rajasthan.
Besides trade in camels, the fair is famed worldwide attracting a huge number of tourists from foreign countries. The camels are washed and decked up in colorful garbs, clothes, silver bells, bangles, jewelry, and other finery. A camel beauty contest is also organized at the festival. Other cattle are also traded in the fair, including thoroughbred cows, sheep, buffalos, horses, donkeys, and even a variety of birds. The highlight of the fair is a tug of war; held between the local Rajasthanis and foreigners; and animals with foreigners. The Pushkar fair starts off with a camel race and continues with numerous musical events and exhibitions to follow.
Other important events during the fair include folk dances, music, camel races, cultural performances, magic shows, longest mustache competitions, exhibitions, bridal competitions, and more. The Pushkar Camel Fair takes place during the winter season, as such the weather is very cool allowing tourists, and spectators to spend time throughout the day in the desert surroundings, something that is not possible during the summer months. The recently added hot air balloon ride is another famous activity that allows tourists an opportunity to observe the entire setup of this majestic fair from the air. This can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for tourists that shouldn’t be missed.
Harmony Half Marathon is also one of the highlights of the festival. It starts from Dargah Ajmer Sharif and ends at the Pushkar Stadium Ground. For foreigners and tourists, it is best to book accommodation in hotels and lodges in advance before arriving at the Pushkar Camel Fair. There is also tent accommodation available. There are several restaurants and food stalls from where tourists can enjoy a variety of Rajasthani delicacies. Besides visiting Pushkar lake and the 52 ghats, tourists can also visit other places like Rose Garden, Rangji Temple, Brahma Temple, Nag Pahad, and Sarafa Bazaar. All this makes the camel fair a must-visit event for tourists visiting Pushkar city.
