Ajmer and Pushkar, though closely connected, offer two distinct travel vibes—Ajmer with its Sufi spirituality and Mughal architecture, and Pushkar with its serene ghats, hippie culture, and vibrant festivals. Together, they make for an unforgettable journey blending devotion, heritage, and immersive local experiences.
1. Offer a Chadar at Ajmer Sharif Dargah
Why visit: Paying respects at this iconic Sufi shrine and offering a chadar is a deeply spiritual and emotional experience for many visitors.
Highlights: – Live qawwali performances – Prayer rituals and offerings – Peaceful, spiritual ambiance
Timing: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free; chadar and flowers available nearby
2. Watch Sunset at Pushkar Lake
Why visit: The serene waters of Pushkar Lake, surrounded by chanting and temple bells, provide the perfect setting for a tranquil sunset.
Highlights: – Evening aarti at the ghats – Holy dips by pilgrims – Street musicians and sadhus
Timing: Best from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Entry: Free
3. Ride the Ropeway to Savitri Temple
Why visit: Soar above Pushkar town in a scenic cable car and soak in panoramic views of the desert landscape and lake below.
Highlights: – Beautiful hilltop temple – Trekking alternative available – Sunrise and sunset views
Timing: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry: ₹140 for round trip ropeway
4. Stroll through Pushkar Bazaar
Why visit: This colorful marketplace is a treasure trove of Rajasthani crafts, silver jewelry, handmade clothes, and spiritual souvenirs.
Highlights: – Tie-dye fabrics and leather goods – Incense, beads, and crystals – Cafes and tattoo studios
Timing: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free; shopping prices vary
5. Take a Camel Ride in the Dunes
Why visit: Just outside Pushkar, a camel safari through the sandy terrain offers a unique desert adventure and stunning sunset vistas.
Highlights: – Traditional camel carts or solo rides – Folk music and dance at camps – Photogenic desert settings
Timing: 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Entry: ₹500–₹1,500 depending on duration
6. Experience the Pushkar Camel Fair (Seasonal)
Why visit: Held annually in November, this is one of India’s most colorful cultural festivals with thousands of camels and vibrant rural life.
Highlights: – Camel races and beauty contests – Cultural performances and stalls – Rural competitions and exhibitions
Timing: Dates vary; usually 7–10 days in Kartik month
Entry: Free entry; event fees may apply
7. Taste Local Street Food
Why visit: From kachoris in Ajmer to malpua in Pushkar, the street food scene here is packed with traditional flavors and vegetarian delights.
Highlights: – Poha, samosas, and chaats – Lassi in clay cups – Hot jalebis and malpuas
Timing: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Free; dishes ₹20–₹100
8. Visit the Brahma Temple
Why visit: This rare temple dedicated to Lord Brahma is a significant spiritual site and a central part of Pushkar’s religious identity.
Highlights: – Ancient idol of Brahma – Pilgrim chants and floral offerings – Located near the lake ghats
Timing: 5:00 AM to 1:30 PM & 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free
9. Explore Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra
Why visit: This striking Indo-Islamic structure, built in just two and a half days, is rich with history and dramatic architectural elements.
Highlights: – Arched stone screens – Intricate calligraphy and pillars – Quiet, meditative surroundings
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: Free
10. Join a Morning Aarti at Pushkar Ghats
Why visit: Begin your day with spiritual energy by witnessing or participating in the peaceful morning rituals at the holy lake.
Highlights: – Sunrise reflections on the water – Chanting priests and diyas – Less crowded than the evening aarti
Timing: 5:30 AM to 7:00 AM
Entry: Free
