Your Travel Partner
SINCE 1989
Your Travel Partner
SINCE 1989
There’s a particular image that comes to mind when people picture Rajasthan - a vast, open landscape, camels silhouetted against a setting sun, and a sense of scale that’s hard to find elsewhere. The Pushkar Camel Fair is where that image becomes, for about a week each year, something you can actually walk through.
Held in the small lakeside town of Pushkar, the fair began as a practical event - a place for rural traders to buy, sell, and exchange livestock, primarily camels, but also cattle, horses, and other animals. Over the decades, it’s grown into something considerably larger: part livestock market, part cultural festival, and increasingly, part photography pilgrimage for visitors from around the world.
The Pushkar Camel Fair unfolds in two overlapping phases. In the earlier part of the week, the focus is genuinely on trade - tens of thousands of camels, along with horses and cattle, are brought in by herders from across rural Rajasthan, and the open desert areas around Pushkar fill with temporary camps, animals, and traders going about business that, in many cases, hasn’t changed dramatically in generations.
As the week progresses, the cultural programme becomes more prominent. This includes camel races, camel decoration competitions, and a series of folk events that have become particular favourites among visitors - the longest moustache competition and turban-tying contests being two of the more memorable ones. Music and dance performances take place in the evenings, often continuing well into the night.
The fair concludes around Kartik Purnima - a full moon considered particularly auspicious - when thousands of pilgrims also arrive in Pushkar to bathe in the sacred lake, adding a spiritual dimension to what’s otherwise a fairly secular spectacle of trade and festivity.
It’s worth pausing on Pushkar as a place, separate from the fair. Even outside fair season, Pushkar is one of Rajasthan’s more distinctive towns - built around a sacred lake said to have been created when Brahma dropped a lotus flower, and home to one of the very few temples in India dedicated to Brahma himself, a notable rarity in Hindu religious geography.
The town has a laid-back, slightly bohemian atmosphere that’s developed over decades of attracting travellers, with a main bazaar selling everything from silver jewellery to textiles, and a series of ghats around the lake where pilgrims bathe. During fair season, this already distinctive town becomes considerably more crowded and more vivid - but the underlying character of the place remains, if you know where to look for it.
It’s difficult to discuss the Pushkar Camel Fair without addressing its reputation among photographers, because that reputation is, by now, a significant part of why many international visitors come. The combination of dramatic desert light, traditionally dressed herders, decorated camels, and an enormous range of faces and activity makes it one of the most photographed events in India.
For travellers with a serious interest in photography, the fair rewards early starts - the morning light across the camel camps, before the day’s heat and crowds build, tends to produce the most striking results. It’s also worth approaching photography here with some sensitivity; many of the people at the fair are there for genuine trade, not as photographic subjects, and a friendly approach - sometimes simply asking, even without shared language - tends to be well received.
The Pushkar Camel Fair is, by most accounts, an intense experience - crowded, dusty, and at times overwhelming, particularly during the peak days around the cultural programme and Kartik Purnima. This isn’t a criticism so much as a fact worth knowing in advance, because it shapes how a visit should be planned.
Accommodation in Pushkar itself becomes scarce and expensive during the fair, with many visitors instead opting to stay in nearby Ajmer (about 15km away) or even further afield in Jaipur, visiting Pushkar for day trips during the fair period. Some visitors choose to stay in temporary luxury camps that are set up specifically for the fair season, offering a more comfortable base within reasonable reach of the festivities.
Dust is a near-constant presence given the desert setting and the sheer number of animals and people - bringing something to cover your face, along with sunglasses, isn’t excessive caution so much as practical preparation.
Not every day of the fair is equally worth experiencing, particularly for visitors with limited time. The early trading days, while authentic, can feel less eventful to visitors unfamiliar with what they’re looking at - vast numbers of animals and traders, but without the structured competitions and performances that come later.
The final two to three days of the fair, leading up to and including Kartik Purnima, tend to offer the richest experience for most visitors - this is when the camel races, decoration competitions, and cultural performances are concentrated, alongside the spiritual activity around the lake. For travellers with only a day or two to spare, timing a visit toward the end of the fair period generally makes sense.
Pushkar’s location - close to Ajmer, and within a reasonable distance of Jaipur - makes it a natural addition to a broader Rajasthan itinerary, rather than a standalone destination. A common approach combines the Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur) with an extension to Pushkar timed around the fair, before continuing on to other parts of Rajasthan such as Udaipur or Jodhpur.
Given the fair’s specific dates each year - and the fact that it falls in November, right at the start of Rajasthan’s most comfortable travel season - it works particularly well as the centrepiece of a winter Rajasthan trip, with the desert landscapes, palace stays, and the fair itself all complementing each other.
It would be reasonable to ask whether a crowded, dusty livestock fair is really worth building travel plans around - and for some travellers, it genuinely isn’t. But for those drawn to it, the appeal isn’t really about comfort. It’s about scale and authenticity - tens of thousands of animals and traders gathering in a way that’s existed, in some form, for a very long time, with the cultural programme and tourist interest layered on top of something that was never originally designed for visitors at all.
That combination - genuine rural commerce alongside an increasingly elaborate visitor experience - is unusual, and it’s part of what makes the fair feel different from more curated cultural festivals. For travellers willing to embrace a bit of dust, crowds, and unpredictability, Pushkar during fair week offers something that’s difficult to find anywhere else in India, or arguably anywhere else in the world.
If the Pushkar Camel Fair is something you’d like to experience, we can build a private Rajasthan itinerary around it - combining the fair with the Golden Triangle, heritage stays in Jaipur, and onward travel to other parts of Rajasthan such as Udaipur or Jodhpur. Given how quickly accommodation around Pushkar fills up during fair season, early planning genuinely helps. Share your travel dates, and we’ll put together a tour built around this festival.
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My South India trip with friends was an unforgettable experience filled with vibrant culture, lush landscapes, and delicious food. We explored beautiful places like Coorg, Ooty, and Mysore, enjoying the serene beauty of the Western Ghats and the rich heritage of temples and palaces. Traveling with friends made it even more fun—late-night chats, spontaneous detours, and shared laughter added magic to the journey. The accommodations were comfortable and clean, especially the homestays that offered a warm, local touch. We booked a travel package that included transportation, guided tours, and daily breakfasts, which made everything hassle-free. The service throughout was excellent—friendly staff, prompt responses, and well-planned itineraries. This trip gave us not just memories but also a deeper appreciation for South India’s charm. I’d definitely go again!
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My trip to Rajasthan was an amazing experience, full of colorful markets, imposing forts, and a thriving culture. Every place captivated me, from the tranquil lakes of Udaipur to the imperial palaces of Jaipur. The tour was really made better by our guide, Mr. Manoj. His extensive historical knowledge, friendly demeanor, and narrative brought each monument to life. All of our inquiries were patiently addressed, and he recommended uncrowded local locations. Mukesh, our driver, was just as remarkable. We had a comfortable and secure trip thanks to his cool, competent driving through the congested cities and twisting desert roads. Mr. Manoj and Mukesh both contributed to the trip's ease, comfort, and enjoyment. I was able to enjoy Rajasthan's splendor worry-free because of them. I highly recommend Travel Plan for their services.
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Our Golden Triangle tour was planned by Travel Plan. It was a fantastic way to experience India's cultural core. We started in Delhi and saw busy markets and historic forts. Jaipur astonished us with its palaces and vibrant streets, while Agra's magnificent Taj Mahal left us in awe. What particularly impressed me was Travel Plan's outstanding service. With accuracy and consideration, they made all the arrangements, from cozy lodgings to knowledgeable local guides. The driver was kind and accommodating, and the car was spotless and consistently on time. The whole trip was well-planned, with every aspect contributing to a seamless and unforgettable experience. Their staff was helpful and always willing to help. If you want to book your Golden Triangle trip with a trustworthy and knowledgeable travel company.
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I visited Rajasthan with my friends last month. It was one of the unique experiences for as. As we stepped on the “land of kings” Rajasthan, we were amazed by the rich culture and hospitality. We explored the top attractions of the cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur and Jaisalmer. From exploring exquisite forts in Jaipur to spending one night in the desert of Jaisalmer, our trip was completely effortless. I appreciate our guide, Shankar, for guiding us throughout the trip and helping us to interact with locals and to learn about the culture of Rajasthan. Our driver, Shyam, was a skilled driver. Both of them gave their best to make our trip comfortable and cosy. I am glad that I chose Travel Plan as my travel partner. I highly recommend them for their services.
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I was very impressed with the services provided by Travel Plan for my short trip to Jaipur. They arranged a great guide (Mr. Kamlendra) and driver (Mr. Ajit) who took as to see the main sites and were flexible based on our interests. The car they provide is excellent and clean. The guide was knowledgeable and answered all of our many questions and, of course, knew the best places to take pictures for us! Travel Plan also booked the leopard safari for us - unfortunately we didn't see any leopards but that's all up to luck anyway. It was still a nice experience, showing the natural side of Jaipur. Make sure to bring warm clothing as it is in the early morning when it is cold. All in all, these guys are a top class tour operator and I would trust them for any travel arrangements in Rajasthan. They aren't expensive but also not cheap - you get a high level of service for a reasonable price. Do it!
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We had an amazing Rajasthan trip (Jaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer) through Travelplan with our driver Mr.Ganesh Rao. It was a very informative, exciting and an eye-opening experience.
Our driver Mr Rao was especially very helpful, friendly and went above and beyond to accommodate us. He spoke English well, was quite interesting and made the long drive between the cities feel instant.
I highly recommend Travelplan if planning a Rajasthan trip.
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Having used Travel Plan on a previous occasion we contacted them again when planning our return visit to Jaipur. All our arrangements were honoured and as expected punctual. The cars were spotlessly clean with good safe drivers and of course AC. From meeting us at the airport to final drop off we were completely satisfied and can wholeheartedly recommend this company. We will be back!
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Very nice tour with travel plan. They provide good tour Guides, hotels and the car also. And Enjoy the food also at recommended restaurant.
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Thanks to Travel Plan India for arranging trip to Manwar Desert Camp including jeep & camel ride at dunes.They also arranged very nice cultural evening with folk dance & music.We enjoyed a lot.
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It was a great experience to travel by TRAVEL PLAN INDIA to down town, Jodhpur. They arranged a very good cycling tour for us through the narrow lanes of blue city with hustle & bustle in the colourful market in clock tower area, also had some street snacks & sweets with lassi.
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We all friends travelled through Travel Plan India to Ranakpur & had wonderful time as Travel Plan India booked us at nice beautiful Orchard which was away from city & no noise pollution with clean swimming pool.staff was very friendly,food quality & service was excellent.Orchard really worth for outing with friends & family
We will recommend Travel Plan India to our friends
Vinod was really nice with us, recommending good place to eat, explaining us the story of the place. He took us the all afternoon to visit the palaces. We totally recommend him.
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I booked my visit to udaipur and khumbhalgrah. All the services were very professional . I was also upgraded at both the hotels i stayed. Would highly recommend them for a memorable trip
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Travel Plan India has nice fleet of transport in Bikaner.
Our driver was very punctual and well behaved.
Guide was very knowledgeable and polite.
Many thanks to Travel Plan India for making our trip memorable.
Travel Plan India provided excellent services in Kolkata.
Enjoyed the tour of city. Guide was excellent and very good Driver.
Enjoyed a lot.
I was very impressed with the services provided by Travel Plan for my short trip to Jaipur. They arranged a great guide (Mr. Kamlendra) and driver (Mr. Ajit) who took as to see the main sites and were flexible based on our interests. The car they provide is excellent and clean. The guide was knowledgeable and answered all of our many questions and, of course, knew the best places to take pictures for us! Travel Plan also booked the leopard safari for us - unfortunately we didn't see any leopards but that's all up to luck anyway. It was still a nice experience, showing the natural side of Jaipur. Make sure to bring warm clothing as it is in the early morning when it is cold. All in all, these guys are a top class tour operator and I would trust them for any travel arrangements in Rajasthan. They aren't expensive but also not cheap - you get a high level of service for a reasonable price. Do it!
...Read More
Having used Travel Plan on a previous occasion we contacted them again when planning our return visit to Jaipur. All our arrangements were honoured and as expected punctual. The cars were spotlessly clean with good safe drivers and of course AC. From meeting us at the airport to final drop off we were completely satisfied and can wholeheartedly recommend this company. We will be back!
...Read More
Very nice tour with travel plan. They provide good tour Guides, hotels and the car also. And Enjoy the food also at recommended restaurant.
...Read More
We all friends travelled through Travel Plan India to Ranakpur & had wonderful time as Travel Plan India booked us at nice beautiful Orchard which was away from city & no noise pollution with clean swimming pool.staff was very friendly,food quality & service was excellent.Orchard really worth for outing with friends & family
We will recommend Travel Plan India to our friends
Vinod was really nice with us, recommending good place to eat, explaining us the story of the place. He took us the all afternoon to visit the palaces. We totally recommend him.
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Hi myself my wife and two teenage kids planned a trip to Jaipur through Travel Plan. We just let them know what we want and left everything on them and we were not disappointed. Their selection of guides, car,driver, monuments,restaurants and different activities like city tour and walking tour was exceptionally managed.
Thank you Travel Plan and their team.
we have enjoyed the view of the city from Nahargarh fort at Sunset by travel plan india.
wax museum is anazing.
Find the answers to all of our most frequently asked questions
The 2026 fair runs from 17 to 24 November, with the cultural programme concentrated toward the end of this period.
Camels are the most famous element, but the fair also involves horses, cattle, and other livestock, alongside cultural events and a spiritual gathering around Kartik Purnima.
Accommodation in Pushkar itself becomes scarce and expensive during the fair. Many visitors stay in nearby Ajmer or Jaipur and visit Pushkar for day trips.
Yes, particularly during the final days around the main cultural events and Kartik Purnima - it’s an intense, busy experience by design.
The final two to three days, including the camel races, decoration competitions, and Kartik Purnima celebrations, tend to offer the richest experience.
Yes, it’s particularly popular among photographers, with early morning light over the camel camps considered especially rewarding.
A significant full moon in the Hindu calendar, marking the spiritual climax of the fair, when pilgrims bathe in Pushkar Lake.
Yes - it’s commonly added as an extension to a Delhi-Agra-Jaipur itinerary, given Pushkar’s relative proximity to Jaipur.
Yes, the desert setting and large numbers of animals mean dust is a constant presence - bringing face protection and sunglasses is advisable.
A quieter, lakeside town known for its sacred lake, the rare Brahma temple, and a relaxed bazaar atmosphere - quite different from the fair-week intensity.
Yes - many people at the fair are there for genuine trade, so a respectful, friendly approach to photography is appreciated.
Share your travel dates, and an itinerary combining the fair with a wider Rajasthan or Golden Triangle tour can be arranged - early booking is recommended given accommodation demand.
