THE BLESSING OF BRAHMA

11 km from Ajmer on the edge of the desert lies the tiny tranquil  town of Pushkar along the bank of the picturesque Pushkar Lake - an important pilgrimage spot for the Hindus.

The 'Nag Pahar' or the snake mountain forms a natural boundry between Ajmer and Pushkar.

The Lake has a mythological significance associated with it. According to myth, Lord Brahma was on his way to search for a suitable place to perform a 'Yagna' (a fire sacrifice). While contemplating , a lotus fell from his hand on the earth and water sprouted from three places. One of them was Pushkar where Lord Brahma performed his yagna.

Surrounded by hills on three sides, Pushkar abounds in temples. Of these the most famous is the Brahma temple - the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma in the country.

Although a serene town, Pushkar bustles with life during the joyous celebrations, held on Kartik Purnima.

Every year thousands of devotees throng the lake around the full moon day of Kartik Purnima in October - November to take a holy dip in the lake. A huge and colourful cattle fair - the Pushkar Fair, is also held during this time.

Dance, music and colourful shops spring up during this fair. Also on sale are mouth-watering traditional delicacies. Colourfully attired village folk enhance the fun of the occasion.

A host of cultural events against the backdrop of this pretty setting are also organised including attractive puppet shows. Cattle auction and camel races are also a part of the festivities.

PRIME SITES - SAVITRI TEMPLE

A temple dedicated to the first wife of Lord Brahma - the Savitri tample is located on the hill behind the Brahma Temple which can be reached by a flight of steps. The temple offers a panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding desertscape.

PRIME SITES - MAN MAHAL

On the banks of Pushkar is the magnificent palace built by Raja Man Singh I of Amer. Now convertd into a Hotel it offers a comfortable accommodation to the visitors.

PRIME SITES - THE BRAHMA TEMPLE

It is the only temple in India dedicated to Lord Brahma. The temple is marked by a red spire and over the entrance gateway is a beautiful statue of a 'Hans' or goose - the celestial carries of Lord Brahma.

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