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The Pushkar Camel Fair is one of the largest in India and the only one of its kind in the entire world. During the fair, Lakhs of people from rural India flock to Pushkar, along with camel and cattle for several days of livestock trading, horse dealing,pilgrimage and religious festival. 

This small town, becomes a cultural phenomenon when colourfully dressed devotees, musicians, acrobats, folk dancers, traders, comedians, ‘sadhus’ and tourists reach here during Pushkar fair. According to Hindu chronology, it takes place in the month of Kartika (October or November) beginning on ‘ashtmi’ 8th day of Lunar Calendar and continues till full moon (‘Poornima’). The camel and cattle trading is at its peak during the first half of festival period. During the later half, religious activities dominate the scenario. Devotees take dips in the holy "Sarovar" lake, as the sacred water is known to bestow salvation.

This small town is transformed into a spectacular fair ground, as rows of make shift stalls display an entire range of objects of art to daily utility stuff. Decoration items for cattle, camel and women, everything is sold together. Small handicraft items are the best bargain for buying souvenirs. The camel and horse races have crowds to cheer. Camel judging competitions are quite popular with animal lovers. Each evening brings different folk dances and music of Rajasthan, performers delivering live shows to the roaring and applauding crowds.

Pushkar fair has its own magic and it's a lifetime experience for travellers. It has featured in numbers of travel shows, films and magazines. According to the Lonely Planet: "It’s truly a feast for the eyes. If you are any where within striking distance at the time, it’s an event not to be missed." 

Foot Print India handbook 2001 writes: "The huge mela is Pushkar's biggest draw. An unforgettable experience." 

Shilpgram:
During the fair, arts and crafts exhibition cum sale is organised at 'Shilpgram', situated at RTDC Tourist Village Campus. Crafts persons and artisans from all over Rajasthan and nearby states participate to exhibit and demonstrate their art and talent.

Where to Stay:
RTDC provides the range of tourist hotels in Ajmer, namely Khadim and Sarovar and Tourist Village in Pushkar. There are good numbers of luxury, moderate, heritage and budget hotels for comfortable stay. The RTDC and many private operators pitch luxury tents during Pushkar Fair.
For boarding and accommodation, please contact Tourist Reception Center, Hotel Khadim, Ajmer.

How to Reach:
Air -nearest airport is Jaipur, which is connected with major cities. A newly built air strip at Kishangarh can cater to small charter flights. Helipad at Ghooghra (Ajmer) and Devnagar (Pushkar) can cater to clients travelling by helicopter.

Rail -Ajmer is well connected by Rail to all important cities. Pushkar is just 13 kms away from Ajmer. 

Road -Ajmer is well connected to important cities of Rajasthan and country. Jaipur-135 Km., Delhi-405 Km., Mumbai-900 Km., Ahmedabad-520 Km., Jodhpur-205 Km., Bikaner-265 Km., Nagaur-16O Km., Jaisalmer-475 Km., Merta-80 Km., Bundi-180 Km., Kota-220 Km. 
 

Rajasthan Tourism Festival Calendar 2009