Pushkar Travel Attractions
The Temples :
Of the over 400 temples dotting the Pushkar landscape, the Brahma temple on the banks of Pushkar lake is the most revered. It is the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma in the world. Constructed in the 14th century, the temple stands on high plinth with many marble steps leading to it. The temple floor is made of marble and many silver coins have been embedded containing the names of donors. A beautifully carved silver turtle also sits on the floor facing the sanctorum. The temple dedicated to Goddess Savitri perched on top of a hill is another important temple of the place. Devotees have to trek for one hour to reach the temple. Irrespective of size and significance, all the Pushkar temples are well maintained and worship services are offered on a regular basis.
Pushkar Lake :
Pushkar LakeThe Pushkar Lake is considered highly sacred by the Hindus. There are 52 flight of steps leading to the lake which are called ghats. According to legend, many gods like Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva had appeared on the ghats. Guru Gobind Singh had also recited the Guru Granth Sahib on the ghats. A holy dip in the waters of Pushkar Lake is believed to cleanse all sins and offer salvation. Offerings of coins, coconut and flowers are also made at the time of holy dip. It may be mentioned that during Kartik Purnima, people throng Pushkar in large numbers for holy dip.
Pushkar Fair :
Pushkar adorns an altogether new look during the animal fair held in the Hindu month of Kartik (October-November). The fair is held for a duration of one week on the banks of holy Pushkar lake. For the participant villagers who lead a difficult life in the arid deserts, the fair comes as a whiff of fresh air.On the first five days, trading of cattle is the main attraction. Tourists love to witness the transaction process which itself is considered unique in many respects. Long drawn negotiations take place between the buyers and sellers before arriving at settlements.
However, it is colourful events involving camels that is the main attraction of the fair. Supervised by their masters, camels participate in games like races and musical chairs. Beauty contests for camels are also held on the occasion. Strength of camels is also tested in games like laadoo oonth. The camel that lifts the highest weight is declared the winner.The Pushkar fair is dubbed the biggest camel fair in the world. Needless to say that it is also the most colourful fair in the whole world involving animals.
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