Brahma Temple, Pushkar

Deity

Lord Brahma

Location

Beside Pushkar Lake, Pushkar

Main festival

Kartik Purnima (October or November)

Best time

October to February

Nearest railway station

Ajmer (about 15 km)

Nearest airport

Kishangarh or Jaipur

About the temple

The present structure is generally dated to the 14th century, though the site is believed to be far older and has been rebuilt several times. It is built of marble and stone with a red shikhara, and the approach is up a flight of marble steps.

In the sanctum, Brahma is shown with four faces and four arms, the classic image of the creator. Pushkar's legends tie the lake itself to Brahma, who is said to have performed a great yagna here.

Festivals

The most important time is Kartik Purnima, the night of the full moon in Kartik, which falls in October or November. Pilgrims arrive in huge numbers for a holy dip in the lake and to worship at the temple, and the well-known Pushkar camel fair takes place around the same days, filling the town with traders, livestock and visitors.

Timings and dress

The temple is open from early morning until evening, with a break in the afternoon, and holds aartis at dawn and dusk. Wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and legs. Shoes must be left outside, and cameras and bags are usually not allowed inside, so carry as little as you can.

Best time and how to reach

October to February is the most comfortable season, with cool mornings and sunny days. Summer is very hot, and the monsoon brings only light rain.

Pushkar is about 15 km from Ajmer, which is on the main railway line and has frequent trains from Jaipur and Delhi. The nearest airports are at Kishangarh and Jaipur. Buses and taxis connect Ajmer and Pushkar throughout the day. We can include Pushkar in a Rajasthan tour with Ajmer, Jaipur and Udaipur.

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