Rajasthan is one of the most beautiful states in India and popular for its vibrant culture, royal forts and palaces and panoramic sand dunes. Tourists often like to visit the state due to its rich and colorful cultural heritage. But the one big event that attracts many visitors every year is the famous Pushkar Cattle Fair that’s held between October-November at the time of Kartik Purnima (i.e. full moon). This year Pushkar cattle fair is celebrating from 18 to 25 November 2015.
It is believed to be one of the world’s largest livestock fair, graced by thousands of camels, livestock, farmers and other villagers. However, you can witness much more than that in this biggest traditional carnival. Here are 10 interesting reasons that would surely make you pack your bags and set forth to this colorful land of Rajasthan:
Holy Pushkar lake magnifies charm of the fair
Pushkar fair takes place on the banks of Holy Pushkar Lake, which is known sacred according to several Indian mythological texts. The lake is surrounded by 52 bathing wharfs, where people come to cleanse their sins and cure diseases, whilst taking few dips in water.
Of course, the biggest livestock sale
Well, what do you expect in the world’s largest livestock fair? Popularly known as the ‘camel fair.’ Here, around 50,000 camels are brought by their owners for sale. The more beautiful the camel looks, the higher is its selling price. Apart from camels, people also come here to trade other animals like horses, sheeps, goats and cows.
Don’t forget to try the camel safari
If you visit Pushkar cattle fair, then you must also try the camel safari to visit various small towns, While moving around these towns, you’ll notice difference in culture and can see closer lifestyle of the people living here.
Witness life of a Cameler
As you walk by the dessert terrain, you’ll find camels everywhere and their owners. This means you’ll be able to get closer glimpse of a cameler’s life and how they breed, raise and trade these beautiful animals.
It is known as little Israel of India
Very few people know the fact that Israelis have set up a Jewish Community Center known as ‘Chabad,’ here and locals can also speak Hebrew. Moreover, traditional Jewish recipes like jachnoon, cinnamon cake, etc. are served in few restaurants, Hence, Pushkar is aptly called the Israel of India, reflecting hint of Jewish culture too.
Traditional puppet shows
While talking about Rajasthan, how can we forget about traditional string puppet shows known as ‘kathputli’ (kath=wood, putli=doll). These puppet shows are full of vibrant colors and tourists find them very interesting.
Shop Rajasthani shoes and other decorative items
In the fair, you’ll find several small stalls selling decorative items, bamboo sticks and camel-themed paintings. Apart from that, many seller also offer handmade Rajasthani shoes made from camel-leather. These attractive items will certainly create a burning hole in your pocket.
You must visit the Brahma Temple
It is considered as the holy land of Gods, and has one of the very few existing Brahma (Hindu creator) temple. Exterior of the temple is adorned in beautiful colors, and has few traditional idols or Gods and several other symbols.
Mouth-watering vegetarian food is served in restaurants
Being considered as a sacred Hindu land, non-vegetarian food and alcohol are hard to find here. But mouth-watering vegetarian dishes like poha and falafal are served here. You’ll surely like delicious delicacies of Pushkar.
Hot air balloons floating in the air
Many colorful hot air balloons can be seen here floating above the fair ground during Pushkar fair. If you like the view of these colorful balloons in mid-air, you can also take these to blow up into the air. Just imagine how much fun you’re going to have in this colorful land and in this Rajasthan tour. You’ll surely go back with load of fun-filled memories.
