Pushkar Lake

Pushkar · Ajmer

One of India's most sacred lakes, ringed by 52 ghats and 400 temples — the spiritual heart of the holy town of Pushkar.

Timings

Ghats open all day; aarti at sunset

Entry

Free (note: 'Pushkar passport' flower-offering scams occur — be aware)

Best time

Sunset aarti; or the Pushkar Camel Fair (Nov)

Time needed

1–2 hours

The little town of Pushkar wraps around one of the holiest lakes in India — a sacred body of water said to have formed where a lotus fell from the hand of Lord Brahma. Its 52 ghats and some 400 temples draw pilgrims year-round to bathe in the waters and offer prayers.

The atmosphere is unlike anywhere else in Rajasthan: part pilgrimage site, part bohemian traveller haven, with a bustling bazaar, rooftop cafés and a laid-back, spiritual air. The evening aarti at the ghats, with lamps floating on the water, is deeply atmospheric.

Don't miss

›The sunset aarti at the ghats.
›The rare Brahma Temple, one of very few in the world.
›The colourful Pushkar bazaar and rooftop cafés.

Good to know

Be aware of the 'Pushkar passport' scam, where visitors are pressured into paid flower offerings at the ghats — a polite, firm no works. Remove shoes and dress respectfully near the water. The November Camel Fair is a spectacular (and crowded) time to visit.