Pushkar is a tiny, atmospheric town built around a sacred Pushkar Lake, just 15 km from Ajmer. It is one of the holiest sites in Hinduism, home to the Brahma Temple — one of the very few temples in India dedicated to Lord Brahma. Over fifty ghats (stepped bathing areas) line the lake, and the town has a devout, vegetarian character — no meat, eggs, or alcohol are sold in the old town centre.
The main reason Pushkar makes international headlines is the annual camel fair, held in October or November (dates follow the Hindu lunar calendar). For a few days, the desert on the edge of town fills with tens of thousands of camels, horses, and cattle, along with traders, performers, and over 300,000 visitors. Camel races, folk music, and moustache competitions are part of the spectacle. Outside of fair season, Pushkar is a mellow backpacker stop with guesthouses, rooftop cafes overlooking the lake, and a relaxed pace. The Savitri Temple on the hill above town offers the best view of the lake and surrounding desert. The bazaar running through the centre sells roses and rose products — the gardens surrounding the town produce much of India's rose essence and rose water.