How to reach Pushkar
Pushkar, a sacred town in Rajasthan, India, is a popular pilgrimage destination known for its Pushkar Lake and Brahma Temple. Here’s how to reach Pushkar by air, rail, and road:
How to reach Pushkar by Air
– Nearest Airport: The nearest airport to Pushkar is the Jaipur International Airport (JAI), located approximately 150 kilometers away.
– From Jaipur Airport to Pushkar: Upon arriving at Jaipur Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Pushkar. The journey takes around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
– Flight Options: Jaipur Airport is well-connected to major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata, with regular domestic flights operated by various airlines.
How to reach Pushkar by Rail
– Nearest Railway Station: The nearest railway station to Pushkar is Ajmer Junction Railway Station (AII), located around 15 kilometers away.
– From Ajmer Railway Station to Pushkar: After arriving at Ajmer Junction Railway Station, you can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or local bus to reach Pushkar. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes.
– Train Options: Ajmer Junction Railway Station is well-connected to major cities in India, including Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Jodhpur, with regular train services operated by Indian Railways.
How to reach Pushkar by Road:
– From Jaipur: Pushkar is approximately 150 kilometers away from Jaipur, and the journey takes around 2.5-3 hours by road. You can drive to Pushkar from Jaipur via NH 48 or hire a taxi.
– From Delhi: Pushkar is located approximately 400 kilometers away from Delhi, and the journey takes around 7-8 hours by road. You can drive to Pushkar from Delhi via NH 48 or take a bus operated by Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) or private operators.
– From Ajmer: Pushkar is located around 15 kilometers away from Ajmer, and the journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes by road. You can hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or take a local bus from Ajmer to reach Pushkar.
Pushkar is a small town, and there is no direct airport or railway station. Visitors often prefer to travel to nearby cities such as Jaipur or Ajmer and then proceed to Pushkar by road. Additionally, it’s advisable to check for any travel restrictions or road conditions before planning your journey.
FAQs about Hindu Pilgrimage Town Pushkar
1. What is Pushkar known for?
– Pushkar is renowned as a sacred Hindu pilgrimage town in Rajasthan, India, known for its Pushkar Lake and Brahma Temple. It is believed to be one of the oldest towns in India and holds great religious significance.
2. Why is Pushkar considered holy?
– Pushkar is considered holy primarily because of its association with Lord Brahma, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. It is believed that Lord Brahma performed a yajna (sacrificial fire) here, making it a sacred site. Additionally, Pushkar is one of the few places in the world with a temple dedicated to Lord Brahma.
3. What is the significance of Pushkar Lake?
– Pushkar Lake, also known as Pushkar Sarovar, is considered one of the holiest lakes in India. It is believed to have been created by Lord Brahma and is said to have the power to cleanse sins and bestow blessings upon devotees. Taking a dip in its waters during the Kartik Purnima festival is considered highly auspicious.
4. How many ghats are there in Pushkar?
– Pushkar has several ghats surrounding the Pushkar Lake, each with its own significance. There are approximately 52 ghats in total, including Brahma Ghat, Varaha Ghat, and Gau Ghat, among others.
5. What is the significance of the Brahma Temple in Pushkar?
– The Brahma Temple in Pushkar is one of the very few temples in the world dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator god in Hinduism. It is believed to be more than 2,000 years old and is a major pilgrimage site for devotees seeking the blessings of Lord Brahma.
6. When is the best time to visit Pushkar?
– The best time to visit Pushkar is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and conducive for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Additionally, the annual Pushkar Camel Fair, usually held in November, is a major attraction.
7. What are some other attractions in Pushkar?
– In addition to its temples and ghats, Pushkar offers other attractions such as Savitri Temple, Varaha Temple, Rangji Temple, and the bustling local markets. Visitors can also enjoy activities like camel rides, hot air balloon rides, and cultural performances.
8. How can one reach Pushkar?
– Pushkar can be reached by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is in Jaipur, approximately 150 kilometers away. The nearest railway station is in Ajmer, around 15 kilometers away. Pushkar is well-connected by road to major cities in Rajasthan and neighboring states.
9. Are there any accommodation options in Pushkar?
– Yes, Pushkar offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, including luxury hotels, heritage resorts, guesthouses, and budget hotels. There are also ashrams and dharamshalas for pilgrims and budget travelers.
10. What are the customs and etiquettes to be followed while visiting Pushkar?
– Visitors are advised to dress modestly and respect the religious sentiments of the locals. Shoes are not allowed inside temples, so it’s important to remove them before entering. Additionally, it’s customary to take a bath or wash one’s hands and feet before entering the Pushkar Lake or temples.