Pushkar Camel Fair 2025

The Pushkar Camel Fair is an annual multi-day livestock and cultural festival in Pushkar, Rajasthan, India, held in the Hindu month of Kartik. It typically happens in late October or early November. It is one of the world's largest cattle fairs. It features trading camels, horses, and other livestock alongside cultural events like folk music, dances, camel races, and contests for activities such as turban tying and moustache growth. The fair also serves as an essential pilgrimage for Hindus, who gather at Pushkar Lake for a holy dip during this time. During the fair. The town becomes vibrant with thousands of stalls selling crafts, traditional jewellery and more, creating a festival atmosphere. The evening came alive with the thousands of people gathering for parties and watching the beautiful "Shine" procession, where thousands of lamps are lit.

After learning about the Pushkar Camel Fair, if you are excited to be a part of the Pushkar Camel Fair 2025, it is scheduled to take place from Thursday, October 30th, to Wednesday, November 5th, 2025. You can plan your visit accordingly. The basic details about the event are mentioned below. Go through the details and get updated. 

• About Event: The Pushkar Camel Fair, known as the Pushkar Mela or Pushkar Cattle Fair, is one of the world's largest annual cattle fairs.
• Date: October 30th to November 5th 2025.
• Address: Pushkar, Ajmer district, Rajasthan, India.
• Event location: The event will be held at the Puskar Mela Ground, located in Ajmer, Rajasthan, India. 
• Atmosphere: Be prepared for a hot and dry environment. It is advisable to wear light, breathable clothing made of natural fabrics like cotton or linen to stay comfortable. 

The Activities and Highlights to Expect at the Pushkar Camel Fair 2025

At the Pushkar Camel Fair 2025, expect to see a bustling camel and livestock trading spectacle, with animals decorated in vibrant ornaments. Also on offer will be a variety of cultural performances, thrilling races, a large food and shopping market, and the unique atmosphere of the holy city of Pushkar. You can also participate in religious ceremonies at the lake and witness the daily routines of camel herders. The details about the key highlights and the activities that tend to happen at the fair are as cited. 

• Livestock Trading: The fair's primary attraction is the trade of thousands of camels, horses and cattle. Herders decorate their animals with colourful fabric, bells and ornaments to attract buyers. 
• Cultural Events: Enjoy a range of artistic performances, including folk dances, music, and traditional rituals, that showcase Rajasthan's vibrant heritage.
• Camel-related competitions: Witness the exciting events such as camel races and beauty contests, which are popular attractions at the fair. 
• Shopping and Markets: Explore the bustling markets, where you can find a wide array of traditional Rajasthani handicrafts, textiles, jewellery, and local delicacies. 
• Religious Significance: The fair occurs at the holy Pushkar Lake, a sacred site with 52 ghats, where Hindu religious ceremonies and spiritual activities are observed. 
• Photography Opportunities: The fair offers numerous opportunities to capture unique photographs of the decorated camels, local traders, and the vibrant festivities. 
• Spiritual Atmosphere: The sacred site of Pushkar and the religious ceremonies create a spiritual ambience, especially on the day of Kartik Poornima. 

Information about the reasons for visiting the Pushkar Camel Fair

You must visit the Pushkar Camel Fair to witness the world's largest camel gathering, experience unique cultural competitions like the most prolonged moustache and matka-phod, enjoy a desert safari and camel rides, shop for local handicrafts, and more. The reasons for visiting the Pushkar Camel Fair are as mentioned below. Go through the following, respectively.

Cultural and Spiritual Experiences

• Holy Pilgrimage: The fair takes place during a blessed time for Hindus, and people visit the sacred Pushkar Lake and the only Brahma temple in India to bathe in the lake and gain spiritual merit.
• Unique Competitions: Witness and participate in quirky contests such as the most prolonged moustache, matka phod and a bridal competition. 
• Cultural Performance: Experience the vibrant culture of Rajasthan through various performances, including traditional music, dance, puppet shows, and magic shows.
• Nomadic Tribes: Observe the Reika tribe of nomads and their traditions as they gather for this annual event. 

Animal and Adventure Activities:

• Camel Safari and Ride: Embark on an exciting safari through the sand dunes to witness a beautiful sunset over the desert. 
• Livestock Market: The traditional purpose of the fair is to observe the bustling trade of camels, horses, and other livestock.
• Camel and Animal Decorations: See camels and horses decorated with intricate designs and tattoos, adding to the fair's visual spectacle. 

Local Life and Shopping

• Shopping for Handicrafts: Browse and purchase a variety of delightful handicrafts, traditional jewellery, puppets, and clothing from thousands of stalls. 
• Local Cuisine: Indulge in the flavour of Rajasthan by trying local street food and other culinary delights available at the fair. 
• Street Markets: Explore the chaotic and vibrant streets of Pushkar, which transform into bustling marketplaces during the fair. 

The Historical Significance of the Pushkar Camel Fair

The Pushkar Camel Fair began over a century ago as a livestock market where local camel, horse, and cattle traders would gather during the Kartik Purnima religious festival. Over the years, the fair evolved from a purely commercial event into a vibrant cultural spectacle. It now attracts thousands of international tourists, blending its historic role as a trading post with a celebration of Rajasthan's rich culture and heritage. 

Origins as a Religious And Commercial Event

• Kartik Purnima: The fair's roots are tied to the Kartik Purnima festival, a holy occasion in the Hindu lunar month of Kartik, when the full moon is celebrated. 
• Holy Site: Pushkar is a sacred city associated with Lord Brahma. It is believed that a holy dip in Pushkar Lake during this auspicious time cleanses sins. 
• Livestock trading: The Fair was established to bring together local camel, horse and cattle herders and traders who attended the religious rituals of Kartik Purnima. 
• Historical Significance: The fair served as a vital commercial hub for the desert people of Rajasthan, allowing them to trade important livestock animals. 

Evolution into a Cultural Spectacle

• Tourism: While retaining its commercial and spiritual routes, the fair has transformed into a massive tourist attraction, drawing visitors worldwide. 
• Cultural Activities: The event is now a multi-day carnival featuring camel races, beauty pageants, traditional folk music and dance performances, and a vibrant art and crafts bazaar. 
• Camel Culture: The fair highlights camels' cultural significance, with owners adorning them in colourful cloths and intricate decorations. 
• Modern Development: The state government has invested in the fair's development, transforming it into a grand celebration of Rajasthan's culture while incorporating modern attractions. 

Details about how to be a part of the Pushkar Camel Fair 2025

To participate in the Pushkar Camel Fair 2025, you can attend the event from October 30th to November 5th. Thus, it is suggested that you arrive a few days early to witness the camel trading and decorations. You can also participate by visiting, watching competitions, participating in safari and camping tours, or volunteering. Transportation options to Pushkar include flying to Jaipur or Kishangarh, taking a train to Ajmer, or driving by road. 

Attend the Fair:

• Arrive Early: The official dates for 2025 are October 30 to November 5th, but arriving a few days before the official start allows you to see the arrival of the camels and their traders. 
• Witness the Events: You can participate by watching camel races, cultural performances by singers and dancers, and competitions such as moustache and turban tying contests. 
• Immerse in Culture: Experience the lively atmosphere, visit the temples, explore the bazaars and enjoy local Rajasthani culture. 

Participate in Activities:

• Camel Safari and Camping: Join the hutted desert safari for sunset/sunrise camel rides and overnight camping, including local performances like the Kalbelia dance. 
• Volunteer: Contribute your skills by volunteering for an organisation that welcomes help in management, photography and cooking. 
• Buy Souvenirs: You can purchase souvenirs online or at the fair to take a piece of the experience home. 

The different modes of getting to the Pushkar Camel Fair

After deciding to visit Pushkar to attend the Camel Fair 2025, you can proceed to the destination and have a great adventurous time. If you are wondering about the modes through which you can reach Pushkar, go through the information below and get updated on the following. 

• Reach Pushkar by Air: You can fly to the Jaipur International Airport, about 146 km away, or the closer Kishangarh Airport HSR, about 40 km away, and then take a taxi or bus to Pushkar.
• Reach Pushkar by Train: The nearest major railway station is Ajmer Junction, from which you can take a short bus or taxi ride to Pushkar. This is the fastest way to travel to Pushkar by train. 
• Reach Pushkar by Road: Pushkar is well-connected by road. You can drive or take a bus from nearby cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Delhi. Then, you can comfortably travel to Pushkar by road by taking mid-breaks. 

An itinerary to explore the Pushkar Camel Fair 2025

Experience the bustling atmosphere of the Pushkar Camel Fair, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture, markets and unique camel rides. 

DAY 1

Arrive at the Pushkar Camel Fair 2025

• Morning: Arrive at the Jaipur International Airport, collect your baggage, take a taxi, and reach your reserved hotel.
• Afternoon: You can freshen up in your hotel, rest after a long day, and have snacks or a little lunch at the nearby restaurant. 
• Evening: Explore the colourful and unique Main Market. You can browse food stalls, bangle shops, and local bet shops in the evening. 

DAY 2

Spend a day at the Camel Fair

• Morning: Wake up, have breakfast at the nearby restaurant, and get ready to explore the Camel Fair. 
• Afternoon: Experience the lively Pushkar Camel Fair, a spectacle featuring camels, horses, livestock, snake charmers, and a vibrant display of art, music, and entertainment. 
• Evening: Enjoy a camel safari, particularly a sunset ride, to witness the desert glow and capture picturesque moments. Some recommend it as a great experience for friends and family. Later, you can enjoy the spicy Indian-inspired Israeli cuisine at this street-side stall, offering a unique culinary experience. 

DAY 3

Visit the Temple and then the Fair:

• Morning: Get up in the morning and prepare for an adventure. Have breakfast at the nearby restaurant and then proceed. 
• Afternoon: Visit the Brahma Temple, one of the few dedicated to the Hindu creator, Brahma. Then, experience the cultural vibrancy of the nearby Pushkar Camel Fair.
• Evening: Immerse yourself in the grand Pushkar Camel Fair, a celebrated annual event that draws large crowds with its cultural festivities and lively religious market. 

DAY 4

Explore the Pushkar ambience.

• Morning: Witness the lively ambience of Pushkar Lake during the Camel Fair, when the ghats come alive with religious ceremonies, camel races, and cultural performances. 
• Afternoon: Participate in the activities that tend to be held at the Camel Fair and enjoy the moment, as this is definitely the best time to spend in Pushkar. 
• Evening: Take a break from the hustle and bustle at out-of-the-blue restaurants, enjoying their food and drinks in a relaxed setting. 

DAY 5

Head back from the Pushkar

• Morning: Embark on a camel safari with Dharma, which visitors praise for its affordable price. Information guides provide excellent photography opportunities, ideal for families and friends.
• Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the heart of the Pushkar camel, where the main attractions are the diverse array of camels and the theatre, as noted by some visitors. 
• Evening: By the evening, you can further travel to the Jaipur international airport and board your scheduled flight.;

FAQ's

What is the Pushkar Camel Fair?

It is a week-long celebration combining a lively camel and livestock fair with significant spiritual and cultural events. 

What is the best time to visit the Pushkar Camel Fair?

Days 2 to 6 are the ideal days to visit the fair, as camel trading is at its peak, cultural events are in full swing, and the crowds are more manageable. 

Is there a dress code for visiting the Pushkar Camel Fair?

There is no strict dress code for the Pushkar Camel Fair, but you must dress modestly and respectfully, as it's a sacred event with cultural significance. Wear breathable and comfortable fabrics that cover your shoulders, chest, and legs. 

What should you avoid when visiting the Pushkar Camel Fair?

Avoid wearing disrespectful clothing, as shorts and tank tops are inappropriate for the sacred location. Also, avoid carrying alcohol, as alcohol is banned within a specific distance of the Temple.