Pushkar is one of the oldest cities in India. Located to the northwest of Ajmer, the tranquil city of Pushkar is a favoured destination for thousands of tourists and devotees flocking to Rajasthan. Situated at a height of 510 metres, Pushkar is surrounded by hillocks on three sides. The ‘Nag Pahar’, literally meaning Snake Mountain forms a natural border between Ajmer and Pushkar. Known as ‘the rose garden of Rajasthan’, the essence of the famous Pushkar rose is exported all over the world. Along with an interesting mythological history, a legacy of timeless architectural heritage makes Pushkar a fascinating city.
According to legends, Lord Brahma, believed to be the creator of the Universe dropped a lotus to the ground leading to the immediate creation of a lake. He then decided to name the place after the flower, and thus the name, Pushkar. The city of Pushkar is home to the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma in the whole world. Hindus consider a journey to Pushkar to be the ultimate pilgrimage that must be undertaken to attain salvation.
History of Pushkar
Pushkar is one of the most sacred religious sites and hence is connected to some interesting stories and legends. It is believed that the town of Pushkar was created by Lord Brahma. Once there was a battle between demon Vajra Nabh and Lord Brahma. Lord Brahma killed the demon with lotus and three petals of the lotus fell in Pushkar. Those three petals created the three beautiful lakes in Pushkar. According to religious beliefs, people who visit four Dhams must visit Pushkar in order to achieve salvation. In history, Pushkar was also mentioned by the Chinese pilgrim traveler Fa Hien. This historically and religiously significant city of Pushkar is the place where you must visit at least once in your lifetime.
Places to visit in Pushkar
Pushkar Lake: According to Hindu scriptures, the sacred Pushkar Lake is described as ‘Tirtha Raj’, the king of all pilgrimage sites. No pilgrimage is considered to be complete without a dip in in the holy Pushkar Lake. Semi-circular in shape and about 8-10 metres deep, Pushkar Lake is surrounded by 52 bathing ghats and over 400 temples and is truly a magnificent sight to behold.
Brahma Temple: Nestled in the picturesque Pushkar valley beyond the Nangaparvat and Anasagar Lake, the Brahma temple holds a special place in the hearts of Indians. It is the only temple in the world dedicated to Lord Brahma. Built with marble and decorated with silver coins, this temple can be identified by its red spire and the image of a swan (considered sacred to Lord Brahma). The chaturmukhi (four faced) idol of Lord Brahma is housed in the inner sanctum. A marble statue of the sun god stands sentinel at the temple. Interestingly, while all the gods are shown bare footed, Surya is shown wearing ancient warrior’s boots.
Old Rangji Temple: The gracious and conspicuous Rangji Temple is another popular shrine that witnesses thousands of pilgrims and tourists every year. The temple is dedicated to Lord Rangji, believed to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The influence of South Indian style, Rajput style and Mughal style in the temple’s architecture is highly noticeable. The high-rising ‘Gopuram’, prevalent mainly in the temples present in South India is another feature of the temple that attracts visitors.
Atmateshwar Temple: This beautiful 12th century temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has an underground component. The intricate Hemadpanti architectural style carvings give this temple a magnificent appearance. Thousands of devotees flock here to pay their respects during the auspicious time of Shivaratri, when Lord Shiva is ritually respected.
Savitri Temple: Dedicated to Lord Brahma’s first wife, Goddess Savitri, this temple is situated on a hillock right behind the Brahma temple. While climbing the long series of steps leading to the temple, one can catch a panoramic view of the lake, surrounding temples and sand dunes. The presence of the only Brahma Temple in Pushkar is the outcome of Savitri’s curse to Brahma for marrying another Goddess, Gayatri, while starting his yagna in Pushkar..
Gurudwara Singh Sabha: situated in the eastern part of Pushkar, was built in the beginning of the 19th century to commemorate the visits of the first and the tenth gurus- Guru Nanak Dev and Guru Govind Singhji.
How to reach the sacred city of Pushkar?
Being the most visited pilgrimage site, Pushkar is finely connected to other major cities of Rajasthan. Pushkar is around 17 Kilometres from Ajmer and 150 Kilometres from the pink city Jaipur. Here are the ways by which you can easily reach Pushkar.
Reach Pushkar by Air – The town of Pushkar doesn’t have an airport. Jaipur International Airport is the nearest airport to Pushkar. From Jaipur Airport you will easily find any road transport to reach Pushkar to complete your Jaipur Pushkar Tour.
Reach Pushkar by Train – There are fewer direct trains to Pushkar. Ajmer Railway Station is the nearest station to Pushkar which is well-connected to other major stations. You can experience the daily routine of locals while traveling to Pushkar via train.
Reach Pushkar by Road – Pushkar is well-connected to other destinations via roadways. Several private and public transports run between Pushkar and other cities. You will also find some luxury buses to reach Pushkar.