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While the main attraction is the lively trading of animals, the 15-day Pushkar Mela also holds deep cultural and religious significance, offering visitors a truly unique experience
Hundreds of thousands of domestic and international tourists flock to this 15-day fair to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of Rajasthan. (Local18)
Each year, Rajasthan’s Pushkar hosts the renowned Pushkar Mela, drawing visitors and traders from around the globe. Recognised as the world’s largest animal fair, the 2024 Pushkar Fair will run from November 2 to 17.
Hundreds of thousands of domestic and international tourists flock to this 15-day fair to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of Rajasthan. The tourism department has organised a variety of events, including Shilpgram, exhibitions, cultural performances and sports competitions.
While the main attraction is the lively trading of animals – featuring horses, camels, and other livestock brought from across India – the fair also holds deep cultural and religious significance offering visitors a truly unique experience.
Religious Significance
Pushkar, one of the oldest cities in India, holds high value in Hindu mythology. Each year, devotees gather to bathe in the sacred Pushkar Sarovar and to seek blessings at the country’s only Brahma Temple. According to Pandit Surendra Rajguru of Pushkar, this year’s religious bathing ritual will be the Bhishma Chaturthi bath, instead of the traditional Bhishma Panchaka bath.
Each year, this holy dip takes place for five days, but due to the absence of the Brahma Chaturdashi Tithi, this year it will take place only for four days, from November 12 until Kartik Shukla Purnima ending on November 15.
How to reach the Pushkar Mela
Pushkar is a well-connected town. To reach Pushkar, the nearest railway station is located in Ajmer, just 14km away. Visitors can travel from Ajmer to Pushkar by bus or taxi. The nearest airport is Kishangarh, approximately 60km away, though the Jaipur International Airport, 150 km from Pushkar, offers more options for connectivity.
In addition to this unique and centuries-old fair, Pushkar offers scenic views from hikes to the Savitri Temple, visits to the Brahma Temple, and a taste of vibrant Rajasthani culture, making it an enriching destination to explore.
