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11-km from Ajmer on the edge
of the Thar Desert lies a tiny tranquil town of Pushkar along the bank
of the picturesque Pushkar Lake, which is an important pilgrimage for
the Hindus. 
LEGEND
Padma Purana, elaborately describes
the origin and importance of this lake. It says that Brahma, the Creator
of the Universe, was once contemplating to locate a suitable spot on
earth to perform a 'Yajna' (sacrificial ritual), the lotus fell from
his hand and rebounding, struck the earth at three places within a circuit
of kms. Water issued forth, from all the three places and the Creator
called all the three as Pushkar (lotus) distinguishing them as 'Jyeshtha'
(elder), 'Madhya' (central) and 'Kanishtha' (younger).
According to mythology, he performed the 'Yajna' at Jyeshtha Pushkar
from Kartik Shukla Ekadashi to Purnima. Lakhs of devotees assemble and
bathe in the holy waters during this period of the year; but bathing
on the last day which is the full moon (Purnima) day, confers special
blessings.
One of the major attractions in Pushkar is the Pushkar Fair
The cattle fair is held here
on this occasion, where other animals like camels and horses are also
bought and sold. It is attended by people from far and wide.
In recent years, an exclusive
accommodation-Tourist Village, has also been erected for foreign tourists.
Competitions are organized for them and cultural programmes are held
acquainting them with the Rajasthani way of life and culture.
Pushkar has 53 bathing ghats
and many temples, big and small; the most celebrated one being that
of Brahma, the Creator of the Universe.
HOW TO GET THERE
Air: Jaipur at 142-km is the nearest airport.
Rail: Ajmer at 12-km is the nearest railhead from Pushkar.
Road: Pushkar is well connected by road and is 12-km from Ajmer.
PLACES TO STAY
Being a major pilgrimage center Pushkar is well
equipped with good accommodation options.
SHOPPING
A large number of traders gather
at the Pushkar Fair and set up shops. They sell a host of products like
bead necklaces of Nagaur, woollen blankets of Merta, textiles printed
in Ajmer and Jodhpur, brassware of Jodhpur and Jaipur etc. Also on sale
are saddles, ropes, and assorted household items. During the fair, cultural
shows and exhibitions are organised to enliven the event. Movies are
shown and competitions are arranged. Bards and poets recite and sing
tales of valour and heroism of bygone days. Animal races and other competitions
add to the attraction.
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