Pushkar Fair 2026: Dates, Things to Do & Travel Guide

Pushkar Fair is one of Rajasthan’s most vibrant cultural festivals, bringing together traditional camel trading, folk performances, local markets and religious celebrations. Held in the historic town of Pushkar, the fair offers travellers a chance to experience Rajasthan’s rural traditions while exploring its spiritual and cultural heritage. From decorated camels and colourful bazaars to traditional music and delicious local food, there is plenty to discover during the festival.

If you are planning a trip to Rajasthan in November, Pushkar Fair is a great opportunity to explore the town at its liveliest. You can spend your mornings exploring the fairground, visit temples and ghats during the day, and enjoy local food and cultural performances in the evening. The festival also gives you time to discover Pushkar beyond the main celebrations, including its historic temples, bustling streets and scenic viewpoints.

Whether you are travelling with family, friends or as a couple, this Pushkar Fair 2026 travel guide covers the festival dates, celebrations, places to visit, things to do, local food, shopping and travel tips to help you plan your trip.

What Are the Dates for Pushkar Fair 2026?

Pushkar Fair 2026 is scheduled to take place from 17 November to 24 November 2026. The festival is associated with the Hindu month of Kartik and the auspicious occasion of Kartik Purnima, when pilgrims visit Pushkar Lake for religious rituals.

The fair traditionally began as a livestock trading event, bringing camel and cattle traders together from different parts of Rajasthan. Over time, it has grown into a major cultural attraction, with traditional markets, folk performances and activities for visitors. The busiest days can attract large crowds, so it is worth planning your accommodation and transport.

What Is Pushkar Fair Famous For?

Pushkar Fair is famous for its decorated camels, traditional livestock trading, Rajasthani folk performances and religious significance. It is one of the best opportunities to experience the region’s rural culture and local traditions in one place.

Some of the main highlights include:

• Camel trading: Watch traditional livestock activities and see camels decorated with colourful accessories.
• Folk performances: Enjoy Rajasthani music, dance and cultural programmes scheduled during the fair.
• Religious rituals: Visit Pushkar Lake and nearby temples during the Kartik festival.
• Traditional markets: Shop for textiles, jewellery, handicrafts and souvenirs.
• Local food: Try popular Rajasthani snacks, sweets and vegetarian dishes.
• Festive atmosphere: Experience the lively fairground and the town’s colourful streets.

What Are the Main Celebrations at Pushkar Fair?

Pushkar Fair brings together traditional activities, cultural entertainment and religious observances. While the exact programme can vary each year, these are some of the experiences visitors can look forward to.

1. Camel and Livestock Trading

Camel and livestock trading is at the heart of Pushkar Fair’s traditional identity. Traders and livestock owners gather from different parts of Rajasthan, creating a lively scene that reflects the region’s rural way of life.

What to Experience:

• Explore the designated livestock areas.
• Observe camels decorated with traditional ornaments and colourful saddles.
• Learn about the role of camels in Rajasthan’s rural communities.
• Follow safety instructions and maintain a respectful distance from animals.

2. Rajasthani Folk Music and Dance

Folk music and dance add to the festive atmosphere, with performers showcasing the region’s traditional art forms. Depending on the official programme, visitors may find cultural performances around the fairground.

What to Experience:

• Watch traditional Rajasthani folk dancers.
• Enjoy live music and regional instruments.
• Look out for cultural programmes scheduled during the fair.
• Check official event timings before planning your visit.

3. Kartik Purnima Celebrations

Kartik Purnima is an important religious occasion associated with Pushkar Fair. Pilgrims visit Pushkar Lake to take part in sacred bathing rituals and prayers, making this period especially significant for the town.

What to Experience:

• Visit Pushkar Lake and its ghats.
• Observe religious rituals respectfully.
• Explore nearby temples.
• Expect larger crowds around important religious dates.

4. Traditional Markets and Local Crafts

During the fair, Pushkar’s markets become especially lively, with shops and temporary stalls selling colourful clothing, jewellery, handicrafts and souvenirs.

What to Experience:

• Browse traditional Rajasthani textiles and accessories.
• Shop for jewellery and locally made handicrafts.
• Explore stalls selling decorative items and souvenirs.
• Compare prices before making purchases.

5. Local Food and Cultural Experiences

Food is another enjoyable part of visiting Pushkar. Local eateries and stalls offer traditional Rajasthani dishes, snacks and sweets, giving visitors a chance to sample regional flavours between sightseeing stops.

What to Experience:

• Try dal baati churma at a local restaurant.
• Sample kachori and mirchi vada.
• Look for traditional sweets such as malpua.
• Explore cafes around the market streets.

What Are the Best Things to Do at Pushkar Fair?

There is more to Pushkar Fair than the main livestock activities. You can explore the town, discover its religious landmarks, shop in the markets and enjoy the surrounding landscape.

1. See the Decorated Camels

Camels are among the most recognisable sights at Pushkar Fair. Many are decorated with colourful saddles, ornaments and traditional patterns, making the livestock areas an interesting place to explore.

What to Experience:

• See traditional camel decorations up close.
• Observe grooming and preparation activities.
• Photograph the fairground respectfully.
• Learn about the importance of camels in Rajasthan.

2. Visit Pushkar Lake

Pushkar Lake is the spiritual heart of the town and an important pilgrimage destination. Surrounded by ghats and temples, it offers a quieter experience away from the busy fairground.

What to Experience:

• Walk around the lake and its surrounding ghats.
• Visit in the early morning for a calmer atmosphere.
• Observe local religious customs respectfully.
• Enjoy views of the temples surrounding the water.

3. Explore Pushkar’s Markets

The town’s market streets are filled with colourful shops selling clothing, jewellery, handicrafts and souvenirs. During the fair, the shopping experience becomes even more lively.

What to Experience:

• Browse traditional textiles and embroidered clothing.
• Shop for silver jewellery and accessories.
• Look for handmade gifts and decorative items.
• Try local snacks while exploring the streets.

4. Watch Folk Performances

Cultural performances are a great way to experience Rajasthan’s artistic traditions. Depending on the programme, you may find traditional music, dance and other organised activities during the fair.

What to Experience:

• Watch local folk dancers and musicians.
• Enjoy traditional instruments and regional songs.
• Check the official programme for confirmed performances.
• Arrive early for popular events.

5. Enjoy a View from Savitri Temple

Savitri Temple is located on Ratnagiri Hill and offers panoramic views of Pushkar and the surrounding landscape. It is a popular stop for visitors looking to enjoy the scenery after exploring the fairground.

What to Experience:

• Take in views of Pushkar Lake and the town.
• Visit in the morning or around sunset.
• Use the ropeway if it is operating.
• Wear comfortable footwear and carry water.

What Are the Best Places to Visit in Pushkar During the Fair?

Pushkar has several attractions that are worth exploring alongside the festival. Its temples, lake, markets and nearby viewpoints make it easy to plan a mix of cultural experiences and sightseeing.

1. Pushkar Lake

Location: Central Pushkar

Pushkar Lake is one of the town’s most important landmarks and a major destination for pilgrims. Its surrounding ghats and temples make it a meaningful place to visit, especially during the Kartik festival.

What to Experience:

• Explore the lakeside ghats.
• Observe religious rituals respectfully.
• Enjoy the peaceful surroundings in the morning.

2. Brahma Temple

Location: Near Pushkar Lake

Dedicated to Lord Brahma, this temple is one of Pushkar’s best-known religious landmarks. It attracts devotees throughout the year and can become particularly busy during the fair.

What to Experience:

• Visit the temple and learn about its significance.
• Admire its distinctive architecture.
• Explore the surrounding streets and shops.

3. Savitri Temple

Location: Ratnagiri Hill, Pushkar

Savitri Temple is known for its hilltop setting and wide views of Pushkar. You can reach it by climbing the steps or taking the ropeway when it is operating.

What to Experience:

• Enjoy views of the town and surrounding hills.
• Plan a morning or sunset visit.
• Check ropeway timings before setting out.

4. Varaha Temple

Location: Near Pushkar’s main market

Varaha Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Varaha incarnation. It is a worthwhile stop if you want to explore Pushkar’s religious heritage.

What to Experience:

• Explore the temple and its architecture.
• Learn about its religious significance.
• Combine your visit with a market walk.

5. Rangji Temple

Location: Pushkar town

Rangji Temple is known for its distinctive architectural style and is another interesting stop for travellers exploring the town’s temples.

What to Experience:

• Admire the architectural details.
• Explore the nearby streets.
• Check visiting hours before planning your visit.

6. Pushkar Market

 

Location: Main market streets, Pushkar

Pushkar Market is a great place to browse traditional Rajasthani products and pick up souvenirs. During the fair, the streets become especially colourful and busy.

What to Experience:

• Shop for textiles, jewellery and handicrafts.
• Browse local accessories and decorative items.
• Try snacks from local food stalls.

7. Gurudwara Singh Sabha

Location: Pushkar town

Gurudwara Singh Sabha is an important Sikh place of worship in Pushkar. It offers a quieter stop for travellers interested in the town’s diverse religious heritage.

What to Experience:

• Visit respectfully and follow the customs of the shrine.
• Learn about its historical associations.
• Spend some time in its peaceful surroundings.

8. Man Mahal

Location: Near Pushkar Lake

Man Mahal is a historic palace associated with Raja Man Singh I. Its traditional architecture and location near the lake make it an interesting addition to a sightseeing itinerary.

What to Experience:

• Admire the palace’s traditional design.
• Enjoy views of the surrounding area.
• Combine the visit with a walk around Pushkar Lake.

9. Desert Outskirts of Pushkar

Location: Around Pushkar

The outskirts of Pushkar offer open landscapes and views of the surrounding hills. Depending on local availability, you may also find guided countryside or camel safari experiences.

What to Experience:

• Explore the surrounding landscape with a local guide.
• Enjoy the scenery during comfortable daylight hours.
• Choose responsible operators if booking a camel safari.

10. Ajmer

Location: Approximately 15-16 km from Pushkar

Ajmer is close enough to Pushkar for a short excursion if you have extra time. The city is known for Ajmer Sharif Dargah, local markets and its cultural heritage.

What to Experience:

• Visit Ajmer Sharif Dargah.
• Explore local markets and food spots.
• Allow extra travel time during the fair.

What Are the Best Things to Do in Pushkar Beyond the Fair?

If you have more time in Pushkar, you can explore the town at a relaxed pace and discover experiences beyond the festival.

• Take a heritage walk: Explore the old streets, temples and traditional buildings.
• Spend time at Pushkar Lake: Enjoy the lakeside atmosphere and observe local customs.
• Explore local cafes: Take a break with tea, coffee or a light meal.
• Shop for handicrafts: Browse the market for textiles, jewellery and souvenirs.
• Visit a scenic viewpoint: Head to Savitri Temple for panoramic views.
• Take a trip to Ajmer: Explore its religious landmarks and markets if your schedule allows.

What Is the Best Time to Visit Pushkar?

November is generally a comfortable month for exploring Pushkar, and the fair makes it one of the most popular times to visit. The town can become crowded during the main festival dates, so planning your accommodation and local transport ahead of time is helpful.

• For the fair: Plan your trip around 17–24 November 2026.
• For religious rituals: Check the schedule around Kartik Purnima.
• For sightseeing: Start early in the morning and explore again in the late afternoon.
• For shopping: Allow enough time to browse the markets without rushing.

How to Reach Pushkar for the Fair?

Pushkar is connected to other parts of Rajasthan by road and is accessible through nearby transport hubs.

By Air: Kishangarh Airport is one of the nearest airport options, while Jaipur International Airport offers a wider range of flight connections. From the airport, you can continue to Pushkar by taxi or a pre-booked transfer.

By Train: Ajmer Junction is the most convenient major railway station for reaching Pushkar. From Ajmer, you can continue by taxi, auto-rickshaw or bus, depending on availability. Booking train tickets in advance is recommended during the fair.

By Road: Pushkar is accessible by road from Ajmer, Jaipur and other destinations in Rajasthan. You can travel by private car, taxi or bus. Allow extra time for traffic and check parking arrangements if you are driving during the festival.

What Are the Best Foods to Try in Pushkar?

Pushkar’s food scene includes traditional Rajasthani dishes, popular snacks, sweets and local cafes. Trying regional food is a simple way to make your trip more memorable.

Popular Foods to Try:

• Dal baati churma: A classic Rajasthani combination of lentils, baked wheat balls and sweetened churma.
• Kachori: A crispy savoury snack popular at local food stalls.
• Mirchi vada: A spicy fried chilli snack often served with chutney.
• Malpua: A traditional sweet available at local sweet shops.
• Rajasthani thali: A good option for sampling several dishes in one meal.
• Lassi: A refreshing drink to enjoy after sightseeing.

What Can You Shop for at Pushkar Fair?

Pushkar’s markets are a great place to find traditional Rajasthani products and souvenirs. During the fair, stalls and shops offer plenty of colourful items to browse.

Popular Things to Buy:

• Traditional textiles: Scarves, embroidered fabrics and colourful clothing.
• Jewellery: Silver jewellery, earrings and traditional accessories.
• Handicrafts: Handmade decorative items and crafts.
• Leather goods: Bags, footwear and accessories, depending on availability.
• Home decor: Wall hangings and decorative pieces.
• Souvenirs: Small keepsakes to remember your visit.

Where to Stay in Pushkar During the Fair?

Pushkar can get busy during the fair, so it is a good idea to book your accommodation in advance. Staying somewhere comfortable gives you a place to relax after spending the day exploring the fairground, temples and markets.

For families and groups, a private villa can offer more space and privacy than a standard hotel room. Explore ELIVAAS luxury villas in Pushkar to find an option that suits your group and travel dates. Check the location, amenities and availability before booking, especially during the festival period.

Why Choose ELIVAAS Villas in Pushkar?

• Spacious accommodation: Enjoy room to relax with family or friends.
• Privacy and comfort: Unwind after a busy day at the fair.
• Suitable for groups: A convenient option for families and friends travelling together.
• A relaxed setting: Spend quality time together between sightseeing plans.
• Easy booking: Explore available properties, facilities and pricing before finalising your stay.

What Is a Suggested 3-Day Itinerary for Pushkar Fair 2026?

A three-day itinerary gives you time to experience the fair, explore Pushkar’s main attractions and enjoy the local food and markets.

1st Day: Explore Pushkar Fair

• Arrive in Pushkar and check in to your accommodation.
• Explore the fairground and livestock areas.
• Watch cultural performances if they are scheduled.
• Browse the local markets and try Rajasthani snacks.

2nd Day: Temples and Local Sightseeing

• Start the day with a visit to Pushkar Lake.
• Visit Brahma Temple and other nearby religious landmarks.
• Explore Pushkar Market for handicrafts and souvenirs.
• Head to Savitri Temple for views of the surrounding landscape.

3rd Day: Local Experiences and Departure

• Enjoy breakfast at a local cafe.
• Return to the fairground to explore any activities you missed.
• Consider a countryside experience with a responsible local operator.
• Shop for last-minute souvenirs before leaving Pushkar.

Travel Tips for Visiting Pushkar Fair

• Book early: Reserve your accommodation and train tickets in advance.
• Check the schedule: Confirm event timings before planning around specific performances.
• Wear comfortable shoes: You will spend a lot of time walking.
• Carry water and sunscreen: These are useful for outdoor sightseeing.
• Plan local transport: Check traffic and parking arrangements during the fair.
• Respect local customs: Follow temple rules and be considerate around the ghats.
• Be mindful around animals: Keep a safe distance and avoid activities that cause distress.
• Keep valuables secure: Take extra care in crowded markets and fairground areas.

Experience the Best of Pushkar Fair 2026

Pushkar Fair 2026 is a wonderful way to experience Rajasthan’s traditions, cultural heritage and spiritual side in one trip. From decorated camels and folk performances to historic temples, lively markets and traditional food, the festival offers plenty to explore.

Plan your visit around the activities you are most interested in, leave time to discover the town beyond the fairground and book your accommodation early. Whether you are visiting for the cultural celebrations or simply want to explore Pushkar in November, the fair can make your trip a memorable one.

Suggested Read: Places to Visit in Pushkar: Best Tourist Attractions You Can’t Miss

FAQs About:- Pushkar Fair 2026

1. When is Pushkar Fair 2026?

Pushkar Fair 2026 is scheduled for 17-24 November. Check local announcements for activity timings.

2. Where is Pushkar Fair held?

The fair takes place at the Pushkar Fairground in Pushkar, Rajasthan.

3. What is Pushkar Fair famous for?

It is known for camel trading, livestock shows, folk performances, local markets and Kartik Purnima celebrations.

4. How many days are enough for Pushkar Fair?

Two to three days are enough to explore the fair, visit temples and browse local markets.

5. Is Pushkar Fair suitable for families?

Yes, families can enjoy cultural performances, sightseeing and local food while taking precautions in crowded areas.

6. What is the best time to visit Pushkar Fair?

Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for exploring the fairground, temples and markets.

7. How can I reach Pushkar by train?

Travel to Ajmer Junction and take a taxi, auto-rickshaw or bus to Pushkar.

8. What should I wear to Pushkar Fair?

Wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes. Carry a light jacket for chilly mornings and evenings.

9. Where should I stay during Pushkar Fair?

Travellers seeking space, comfort and privacy can explore ELIVAAS villas in Pushkar for a relaxed festival getaway.

10. What places can I visit near Pushkar?

Visit Pushkar Lake, Brahma Temple, Savitri Temple and Pushkar Market. Ajmer is also around 15-16 km away.