Every year, the sacred town of Pushkar in Rajasthan transforms into a lively carnival of colors, camels, and culture. Welcome to the Pushkar Camel Fair, one of India’s most iconic and vibrant festivals, where tradition meets spectacle in the heart of the desert.
Held in October–November around the Kartik Purnima full moon, this week-long celebration draws thousands of camels, livestock traders, folk performers, and tourists from all over the world.
In this guide, we cover the Pushkar Camel Fair dates, top experiences, and must-know travel tips to make your visit truly unforgettable.
Pushkar Camel Fair 2025 Dates
The Pushkar Camel Fair usually begins a week before Kartik Purnima (the full moon day of the Hindu month of Kartik).
Pushkar Camel Fair 2025 Dates: 30 Oct-5 Nov
This is the spiritual peak of the fair when thousands take a holy dip in Pushkar Lake.
What is the Pushkar Camel Fair?
The Pushkar Fair (locally called Pushkar Mela) is a traditional livestock fair turned global cultural event, held for centuries. Originally a trading fair for camels and cattle, today it showcases:
- Camel trading & parades
- Rajasthani folk music & dance
- Competitions (longest mustache, turban tying, camel races)
- Cultural shows, exhibitions & crafts
- Religious rituals & holy bathing
It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that merges spirituality, culture, and spectacle in a desert town setting.
Where Does the Fair Happen?
The fair is held at the Pushkar Mela Ground, located on the outskirts of Pushkar town, near the dunes and camel camps. The entire area becomes a pop-up city with tents, stalls, music stages, and arenas for events.
The nearby Pushkar Lake, temples, and ghats host the religious aspects of the fair.
Top Experiences at Pushkar Camel Fair
1. Camel Trading & Decoration Parade
See thousands of decorated camels and cattle being bought, sold, and paraded. Traders dress up their camels with bright fabrics, tassels, and painted patterns.
2. Cultural Performances
Watch Rajasthani folk dance, music shows, puppet acts, Kalbelia dancers, and even fire performances under the desert sky.
3. Fun Competitions
Don’t miss quirky contests like:
-
- Longest Mustache Competition
- Matka Race
- Turban Tying Contest
- Camel Beauty Pageant
- Bride & Groom Competition (Rajasthani dress-up)
4. Hot Air Balloon Rides
Float above the Pushkar fairgrounds and capture a bird’s-eye view of the desert town and the bustling camel camps.
5. Camel Safari & Sunset at Dunes
Book a camel safari into the surrounding desert and end your day watching the sunset from the sand dunes.
6. Shopping in Pushkar Bazaar
Shop for handicrafts, silver jewelry, textiles, embroidered leather, Rajasthani turbans, and artwork in the fair market and city lanes.
7. Take a Holy Dip in Pushkar Lake
On Kartik Purnima, pilgrims take a dip in the sacred lake to wash away sins. Participate or observe the ritual bathing along the ghats.
Most Instagrammable Spots
- Camel camps at sunrise
- Pushkar Lake during aarti
- Colorful crowd shots at mela ground
- Decorated camels close-up
- Sunset from Savitri Temple or the dunes
Pushkar Camel Fair Travel Tips
✔️ Accommodation
- Book early! Pushkar gets packed during the fair.
- Choose from heritage hotels, desert camps, guesthouses, or luxury tents.
- Camps near fairgrounds offer an authentic experience.
✔️ What to Pack
- Comfortable walking shoes (dusty paths)
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, scarf/hat (daytime heat)
- Light jackets (desert evenings can be cool)
- Camera/phone with backup battery
✔️ Local Etiquette
- Ask before taking portraits, especially of locals and performers.
- Dress modestly near temples or ghats.
- Bargain politely in bazaars.
✔️ Food & Water
- Try Rajasthani street food, but stick to bottled water.
- Popular snacks: Malpua, Dal Baati Churma, Kachori, Poha
✔️ Getting Around
- Pushkar is walkable.
- Auto-rickshaws and camel carts are available for local travel.
How to Reach Pushkar
- By Air: Nearest airport is Kishangarh Airport (45 km) or Jaipur International Airport (150 km).
- By Train: Ajmer Railway Station (11 km) is the nearest railhead. Take a taxi or local bus to Pushkar.
- By Road: Buses and taxis available from Jaipur, Ajmer, Delhi, and Udaipur.
Where to Stay During the Fair
- Luxury: The Westin Pushkar Resort, Ananta Spa & Resort
- Desert Camps: Royal Safari Camp, Skywaltz Luxury Tents
- Budget Options: Zostel Pushkar, Moustache Hostel, Hotel Everest
Final Thoughts
The Pushkar Camel Fair is much more than a livestock festival — it’s a living celebration of Rajasthan’s soul. Whether you’re here for the camels, culture, or the spiritual energy of Pushkar Lake, this annual fair offers an experience that’s truly one-of-a-kind.
Mark your calendars, pack your bags, and get ready for a desert spectacle full of tradition, color, and unforgettable moments.
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