Snapshots
Every year, the golden sands of Rajasthan come alive with vibrant colours, rhythmic folk music, and thousands of camels at the iconic Pushkar mela in Rajasthan. A cultural experience set against the spiritual backdrop of the holy town of Pushkar, this extraordinary event blends tradition, trade, and festivity like no other. This year, the Pushkar Camel Fair 2025 promises an unforgettable cultural spectacle, where livestock meets lifestyle, and ancient rituals dance alongside the modern charm. Now, with the ending of the Diwali season, the celebrations aren't over yet, so here’s a vivid glimpse into the rustic heart of India with the upcoming Pushkar Camel Fair 2025.
About the Pushkar Camel Fair
The Pushkar fair in Rajasthan is a globally renowned cultural festival that is held annually in the sacred town of Pushkar. An event that largely happens around the full moon day of Kartik, this fair was originally a livestock trading event. With time, the Pushkar mela in Rajasthan has grown into a vibrant celebration of the Rajasthani culture, that features thousands of camels, cattle, and horses, alongside lively folk music, traditional dances, camel races, and colourful competitions like turban tying and moustache contests.
Pushkar Camel Fair 2025 dates
This year the Pushkar mela in Rajasthan will run from October 30, 2025 till November 5, 2025, promising you a rare blend of religious devotion, rural charm, and festive spectacle, making it India’s most unforgettable cultural experience.
Major events lined up for the 2025 edition of the Pushkar Camel Fair
From the bustling trade beginning at the break of dawn to the thunder hooves of the camel ride in Pushkar, or the swirl of a folk dancer’s skirt and the shimmering joy of the desert night markets, here are some of the major events that you can expect at the Pushkar Camel Fair 2025-
1. Livestock trading and decorated camel parade
From the break of dawn, the vast fairgrounds echo with the low moans of camels and the bustling footfalls of traders. Thousands of animals converge here in the grand spectacle of the Pushkar fair in Rajasthan draped in colourful cloths, silver bells, and beads. A key highlight of the fair is the decorated camel ride in Pushkar.
2. Camel and horse races
The fairground transforms into a racetrack when the spirited camels and horses thunder across the desert land. These races are not simply for show, the stakes are high and the atmosphere echoes an electrifying excitement.
An essential travel tip for the travelers is to arrive at the racing arena early so that you can claim a good vantage point.
3. Desert safaris
A trip to the Pushkar mela in Rajasthan is incomplete if you have not experienced the desert safari. Imagine riding in a camel cart at sunset across dunes, with the wind in your hair, and the sky flaming with colour.
4. Quirky competitions and folk games
Among the very unique events that take place at the Pushkar fair in Rajasthan, like the ‘Longest Moustache’, the rapid fire Turban tying competition, and the even famed ‘Matka Phod’, these challenges are extremely fun and exciting. Experience the culturally rich games that offer you an insider’s view of the Rajasthani spirit, pride, and heritage, also making for fantastic anecdotes for your travel story.
5. Folk music, dance and nighttime cultural performances
As the dusk settles, the fair’s tempo shifts from trade to performance. The desert becomes a theatre with the local tribes swirling into action, featuring the sinuous moves of the Kalbeliya dance, the elegant circles of Ghoomar, and the haunting tunes of folk singers under starlit skies. Puppet shows, street magic, and acrobatics round out the entertainment.
6. Hot air ballooning and glamping
For a truly elevated experience, sign up for a hot-air balloon ride above the fair steppe. Watch the sea of colourful tents, camels, and the desert horizon from up high, making for an absolutely unforgettable experience. You can also glamp under the stars in luxury tents with the traditional folk nights happening around the campfires.
7. Markets, handicrafts and culinary delights
Shopping at the Pushkar Camel Fair 2025 is an example of a vibrant chaos in the best possible way. With alleys after alleys of stalls selling silver jewellery, mirror work fabrics, camel leather bags, and embroidered footwear, the markets here offer both souvenirs and stories. Foodies will delight in savoury specialities like onion kachoris, malpua and snacks cooked in the open desert air.
Things to do at the Pushkar Camel Fair 2025
A colourful event that brings tourists from across the world to the holy town of Pushkar in Rajasthan, the Pushkar mela portrays a beautiful tapestry of colours, traditions, and some of the most memorable experiences. Apart from the major events happening at the Pushkar Camel Fair 2025, here’s a list of other experiences you can indulge in
1. Capture the iconic desert photography
Boasting of golden sand dunes, vibrantly dressed locals, elaborately adorned camels, and the surreal morning light, Pushkar becomes a paradise for photographers during the time of the mela. Sunrise and sunset provide stunning opportunities for capturing authentic India in action.
2. Take a holy dip in the Pushkar Lake
During the Kartik Purnima, which is when the fair takes place, pilgrims from across the country take a sacred bath in the Pushkar Lake to cleanse their sins. As a visitor, witnessing the sunrise aarti here is a deeply moving and spiritual experience.
3. Visit the Brahma Temple
Pushkar is home to India’s only Brahma Temple. Visiting this sacred site adds a spiritual layer to your journey, especially during the fair when the energy is heightened with prayers and rituals.
FAQs: Pushkar Camel Fair 2025
1. Where is the Pushkar Camel Fair held?
The fair is held in the town of Pushkar, located in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan, which is at a distance of about 150 km from Jaipur.
2. What is the main highlight of the fair?
The Pushkar Camel Fair is famous for its camel and livestock trading, folk performances, cultural contests, camel races, and the spiritual ritual bath in Pushkar Lake during Kartik Purnima.
3. Is the Pushkar Fair suitable for families and children?
Yes! The fair offers family-friendly experiences, including folk shows, fun contests, animal displays, shopping, and delicious local food.
4. How can I reach Pushkar?
The nearest airport is in Jaipur. You can also take a train to Ajmer and then travel for about 30 minutes by car or taxi to Pushkar.
5. Do I need to book accommodation in advance?
Absolutely. The fair attracts thousands of visitors, so it is advisable to book hotels, guesthouses, or desert camps well in advance, especially for stays around November 4-5.
6. Are there any entry fees to attend the fair?
Entry to the fairground is free for visitors. However, certain activities like hot-air balloon rides, camel safaris, or glamping may require advance booking and separate payment.
7. What should I wear at the fair?
Light, breathable clothing is ideal during the day, but bring a scarf or a shawl for cooler desert nights. Modest attire is appreciated at religious sites like the Pushkar Lake and temples.
8. Is photography allowed at the fair?
Yes, and it is highly encouraged! The fair is a visual feast. However, remember to ask for permission before photographing the locals, especially in sensitive or sacred areas.