Inside The Iconic Pushkar Camel Fair

Plan your visit to the Pushkar Camel Fair, a unique cultural event in Rajasthan featuring livestock trading, folk music, traditional dress, and desert festivities.

The vibrant festivals of India have long drawn travellers from around the world, with each celebration offering a unique glimpse into its cultural soul. From the colourful chaos of Holi to the glowing lights of Diwali, these events bring life to every corner of the country. Among them, the Pushkar Camel Fair stands out as a unique blend of tradition, spirituality, and spectacle, and deserves a spot on every Rajasthan itinerary.

Held annually in the desert town of Pushkar, this fair is more than just a gathering of camels - it is a cultural phenomenon where pilgrims, performers, and curious travellers come together to experience rural India in its rawest form. 

Camels take centre stage at the Pushkar Camel Fair - dressed in vibrant fabrics, beads, bells and colourful pom-poms, they’re paraded, traded and even entered into beauty contests.

Why is the Pushkar camel fair so famous?

The Pushkar Camel Fair is famous for being one of the largest and most vibrant livestock fairs in the world. Traders, farmers, and nomads from across the state gather in the temple town of Pushkar to buy, sell, and parade thousands of camels, horses, and cattle. The vibrant atmosphere, colourful attire, and traditional music turn the city into a living museum of rural North India.

Rajasthan, known for its deserts, palaces, and vibrant traditions, truly comes alive during this iconic event. Pilgrims and villagers from all over the country take a holy dip in Pushkar Lake and offer prayers at the only Brahma temple in the country. Cultural performances, camel races, folk dances, quirky competitions and contests captivate visitors. The fair is a one-of-a-kind window into the spirit of Rajasthan, drawing travellers, photographers and spiritual seekers alike.

Where is the Pushkar Camel Fair held?

The annual Pushkar Camel Fair or Pushkar Mela takes place in the picturesque town of Pushkar, located in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan. Set beside the sacred Pushkar Lake and surrounded by the Aravalli Hills, the town is steeped in spirituality and myth. Known as a temple town, Pushkar is home to the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma in India, making it an important pilgrimage site for Hindus.

Rajasthan, with its rich cultural fabric and dramatic desert landscapes, offers the perfect backdrop for this iconic fair, celebrating life, livestock and legends. The golden sands, vibrant towns, and spiritual landmarks give the Pushkar Mela its unique setting. The fair also reflects the soul of Rajasthan, where heritage, faith, and everyday life come together in a way that is both timeless and deeply rooted in tradition.

The sacred lake at Pushkar is believed to have formed when Lord Brahma dropped a lotus flower to earth. Bathing in its waters during the full moon of Kartik is said to cleanse sins and bring spiritual merit, drawing thousands of pilgrims each year.

What are the key highlights of the Pushkar Camel Fair?

The Pushkar Camel Fair is believed to have originated more than 100 years ago, initially as a gathering for livestock traders timed to coincide with the Kartik Purnima festival - the full moon in the Hindu month of Kartik (usually October or November). This date holds religious significance, as thousands of pilgrims come to Pushkar to bathe in the holy lake on this auspicious day.

While the exact founding year isn’t formally recorded, the fair has grown significantly since the early 20th century, evolving from a livestock market into one of India’s most iconic cultural festivals. For curious travellers wondering what to expect, here are a few highlights from the Pushkar Camel Fair.

Camel Racing

Camel racing is one of the most anticipated events at the Pushkar Mela. Imagine decorated camels galloping across the desert track, cheered on by enthusiastic crowds. It’s a thrilling event that combines skill, speed, and tradition. Riders often dress in traditional attire, adding to the festive spirit and cultural charm.

Folk Dancing

Traditional folk dances bring the fairground to life each evening. Local performers, adorned in colourful costumes, showcase dances like Ghoomar and Kalbelia. The rhythm of live music and swirling skirts captures the essence of Rajasthan’s rich artistic heritage. Audiences often join in, turning performances into joyful celebrations.

Local Sports

From tug-of-war, Kabaddi, Cricket, Gilli Danda to Langdi Tang (hopping on one leg) local sports at the fair invite friendly competition and community participation. These events are a lively tribute to the region’s athletic spirit, providing fun for both locals and tourists. Often humorous, these games add another layer of entertainment to the festivities.

Festival Competitions

Unusual competitions like the longest moustache contest, turban tying, India bride and groom contest and matka phod draw large crowds. These quirky and spirited contests highlight the fun side of the fair while honouring Rajasthani customs. They offer great photo opportunities and plenty of laughs, making them a favourite among visitors.

Market Stalls

The fairground transforms into a bustling bazaar with rows of stalls selling everything from handicrafts to spices. Visitors can shop for colourful textiles, silver jewellery, leather goods, and traditional Rajasthani artefacts. It’s also a great place to sample local snacks and sweets while soaking in the festive atmosphere.

One of the most entertaining sights at the Pushkar Camel Fair is the camel dance competition, where local men dress up and ride life-sized camel puppets in colourful, often comical displays of desert tradition and flair.

What is the date of Pushkar Mela?

As the Pushkar Mela follows the Hindu lunar calendar, the dates of the event change every year. The fair begins in the Hindu calendar month of Kartik and ends on the Kartik Purnima, which usually falls in late October and early November. In 2025, the nine-day event is scheduled from October 30 to November 5, with key spiritual rituals taking place on the final day.

Historically, the Pushkar Mela began as a gathering for livestock trading, especially camels, horses, and cattle, by local farmers and nomadic communities. The fair still opens with this tradition, featuring animal parades and contests that showcase Rajasthan’s rural heritage. As the fair continues, the focus shifts to religious ceremonies and rituals around Pushkar Lake, drawing thousands of visitors and devotees from across India and around the world.

Experience the festivals of India with India Unbound

Ready to witness one of India’s most vibrant cultural festivals? The Pushkar Camel Fair promises unforgettable moments in the heart of Rajasthan. From spiritual rituals and vibrant markets to the desert’s unique charm, India Unbound curates Rajasthan itineraries that match your interests. Get in touch today to plan your North India adventure with comfort, insight, and expert guidance.