Pushkar is one of the holiest places of pilgrimage for Hindus. The lake here, around which the whole town revolves, is considered to ne extremely holy and a bath here is second only to one in the Ganges at Varanasi. Hundreds of small temples are built on the periphery of the lake. Well designed, wide stone steps lead down to the lake. These are called the `ghats’. Devotees come to worship at the temples and on the ghats early every morning and at sunset too. Prayers and chanted, hymns are sung, and devotional music is played at the temples.

Pushkar is also known for its annual “Camel Fair”. Traditionally, when devotees would come on a pilgrimage at the time of the first full moon of the Hindu year, they would bring along their cattle, camels and brisk trade would take place. It is now one of the largest fairs of its kind and attracts thousands of people. This is a fantastic opportunity to see people in traditional, ceremonial attire, entire families having travelled considerable distance to attend the fair. The various animals are displayed in their finery and there are competitions and races too.

Pushkar Palace is one of the oldest hotels in Pushkar and is located right on the banks of the lake. Until recently, the hotel had a fabulous sunset terrace with well tended palm trees and other mature trees. A zealous town council decreed that the garden was violating the public space and tore it down. Minus the terrace, the Pushkar Palace still has lovely views from the suites which are right next to the lake and from the upper floors of the main wing. A small garden is in the centre and this is a delightful place to sit and relax.

The hotel’s owner, Mr Jagat Singh is a great collector of antique furniture and all rooms have hand-picked features and fittings. Large armoires with cut glass handles, carved mirror frames, poster or canopy beds and other smaller pieces of colonial or Rajasthani furniture are a delight.

Being a place of pilgrimage, only vegetarian food is served in Pushkar, and alcohol is not available.