Pushkar is one of the oldest cities of India and is located in the Ajmer district of the Indian state Rajasthan. It is situated 14 km (8.7 mi) northwest of Ajmer at an average elevation of 510 m (1,670 ft) and is one of the five sacred dhams (pilgrimage site) for the Hindus. This beautiful town lies on the shore of Pushkar lake. It is the legacy of timeless architectural heritage, that makes Pushkar a fascinating city.
Creation
There are several religious and mythological connotations based on how this town came into existence. Some people strongly believe that the Pushkar lake was formed by the tears shed by Lord Shiva. He cried for so long after the unfortunate death of his beloved wife Sati that his tears created two holy ponds – one at Pushkar in Ajmer in India and the other at Ketaksha, which literally means raining eyes, in Sanskrit. It is from this name that the word Katas is derived. It is often called “Tirth Raj” – the king of pilgrimage sites – and has in recent years become a popular destination for foreign tourists.
People also associate the creation of this town with the Hindu mythology god Brahma – the Creator. It was believed that the Hindu gods released a swan with a lotus in its beak and let it fall on earth where Brahma would perform a grand yagna. The word ‘Pushkar’ means blue lotus flower in Sanskrit.
Pushkar used to have many beautiful temple but due to the Muslim conquests in the area, several structures were destroyed. Eventually, the destroyed temples were rebuilt.
Pushkar has more than 400 temples including the only one temple in India dedicated to the Hindu God Lord Brahma, the Creator of the Universe.However, the most famous among all the temples is the Brahma Temple was built during the 14th century CE.
Pushkar festival
Pushkar is also known as the town of fairs and festivities. Infact, its specialty is the annual Pushkar camel and livestock Fair, which is held in October to November for a period of seven days. As it is one of the very popular festivals across the countries, people are flooded into this city to witness the beauty of it. This is the best time to see the enthusiasm and the essence of merrymaking dissolved in the air.
Animals, including over 50,000 camels, are brought from far away places to be traded and sold. They are washed and decorated with jewelries and vibrant clothes. Camels at the Pushkar fair are decorated with great care and are made to wear jewellery of silver and beads. The atmosphere is filled with the sounds of the jingling jewels along with the hustle and bustle. An interesting ritual is the piercing of a camel’s nose.
The true beauty of this place can only be experienced, which is why about 4,000 to 6,000 visitors from all over the world come to Pushkar every day.
Activities to do in Pushkar –
– Camel Safari on the golden sands of Pushkar
– Seek blessings at the auspicious temples
– Visit the ghats and take the holy dip to wash away your sins
– Enjoy the panoramic views of this colorful little city and the Aravalli hills
– Take a hot air balloon ride and prepare yourself to be enthralled by the aerial views of this city.
– Buy handicrafts for yourself and take some as the souvenirs for your loved ones
– Try trekking as well as camping under the starry nights
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