Inside the Pushkar Camel Fair What to Expect & Travel Tips

Inside the Pushkar Camel Fair What to Expect & Travel Tips

Every year, when the golden sands of Rajasthan shimmer under the November sun, the sleepy desert town of Pushkar transforms into a festival of colors, music, and culture — the Pushkar Camel Fair. For travelers, it’s not just an event; it’s a living postcard of India’s rural life and royal traditions.

This year, a corporate group of 20 travelers from Gurgaon, led by Mr. Bakshi, decided to swap boardrooms for the desert dunes. Their journey — planned by Rajesh from Rajasthan Tour India — turned out to be an extraordinary experience of camaraderie, culture, and celebration.

Arrival in Pushkar – The Desert Comes Alive

When the team’s tempo travelers left Gurgaon before dawn, laughter and anticipation filled the air. Rajesh had meticulously designed their 4-day Pushkar Fair itinerary, ensuring a perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and local flavor.

The roads unfolded like a desert dream — from the bustling Delhi–Jaipur highway to the calm sands of Pushkar. By afternoon, the group reached their luxury desert camp, complete with Rajasthani tents, private bathrooms, and bonfire areas.

As the sun dipped behind the dunes, folk musicians began playing the sarangi, dancers twirled in colorful ghagras, and the aroma of bajra rotis filled the camp. For Mr. Bakshi’s team, the corporate world had never felt so far away — or so peaceful.

“It’s amazing how a place can feel ancient and yet alive,” remarked one of the team members as they watched the sky turn orange and pink.

Day 1: Exploring the Pushkar Camel Fair

Morning brought the hum of drums, camel bells, and distant temple chants. The group walked toward the fairground, where over 30,000 camels, horses, and livestock were on display. The scene was a mix of spectacle and tradition — traders negotiating deals, nomadic herders showcasing their best animals, and tourists capturing it all.

Rajesh, their trip planner, guided them through the sprawling fairgrounds, explaining how Pushkar’s camel trading tradition dates back over a century. The team learned how traders travel for weeks across the Thar Desert to reach this sacred town — not just to sell camels, but to celebrate community.

The group took turns riding camels, laughing as they swayed along the dunes. Mr. Bakshi couldn’t resist joking, “This is the best ‘team-building exercise’ we’ve ever done!”

Lunch was at a local café overlooking Pushkar Lake, where pilgrims were performing rituals. The team savored Rajasthani thalis — dal baati churma, ker sangri, and mirchi vadas — while watching the ghats shimmer in sunlight.

Evening at the fair was a feast for the senses: folk dances, puppet shows, and a camel beauty contest! As night fell, the group gathered around the campfire, sipping masala chai and listening to desert folk tales shared by Rajesh himself.

Day 2: Pushkar Sightseeing & Hot Air Balloon Adventure

The next morning, before sunrise, Rajesh surprised everyone with a hot air balloon ride — one of Pushkar’s most famous experiences. Floating silently above the golden dunes, the group watched the fairgrounds from the sky. Below them, thousands of camels and tents looked like a painting in motion.

“It felt surreal — like watching life unfold in slow motion,” said Priya, one of the participants.

After landing, breakfast awaited them at the camp — poha, parathas, and hot tea. Then, they explored Pushkar’s spiritual side:

• Brahma Temple: One of the few temples in the world dedicated to Lord Brahma.

• Pushkar Lake: Where pilgrims bathe to wash away sins.

• Varaha Temple: An ancient shrine with fascinating carvings.

Afternoon brought some leisure time. The team wandered through Pushkar’s colorful markets, buying handicrafts, silver jewelry, and leather goods. The alleys were alive with the sounds of drums and the aroma of incense.

Evening was magical. The group attended an Aarti (prayer ceremony) at Pushkar Lake. As diyas floated across the water, even the most corporate-minded travelers felt a touch of spirituality.

Dinner was a royal Rajasthani buffet with live folk music and fire dancing — another perfect day under the desert stars.

Day 3: Desert Safari & Cultural Immersion

By Day 3, the team was ready for adventure. After breakfast, they embarked on a jeep safari across the sand dunes surrounding Pushkar. The desert stretched endlessly — golden, silent, and majestic.

They stopped at a small Bishnoi village, where locals demonstrated traditional weaving and pottery. The simplicity and hospitality touched everyone. Mr. Bakshi shared tea with an elderly villager who spoke about life in the desert.

Back at the camp, Rajesh had arranged a Rajasthani cooking session where the team learned to make dal baati and kachoris. The laughter and teamwork reminded them of their office days — only now, their meeting room was made of sand and sky.

Evening celebrations included a folk concert, with Kalbeliya dancers swirling to the beats of dholaks. Bonfires crackled, stars sparkled, and everyone joined in singing and dancing.

Day 4: Farewell to Pushkar – Memories in the Sand

The final morning came too soon. After breakfast, the group visited the fair once more to bid farewell to the camels and traders they had befriended. Some posed for last photos, others just stood silently, soaking in the atmosphere.

Before leaving, they enjoyed a sunset camel ride — a perfect way to close their desert adventure.

On their drive back to Gurgaon, the team couldn’t stop sharing stories: the laughter, the camel races, the hot air balloon, the spirituality, the serenity.

“Rajesh and his team gave us more than a tour — they gave us an experience we’ll never forget,” said Mr. Bakshi as their vehicle crossed back into city life.

Why Pushkar Camel Fair Is a Must-Visit

1. The World’s Largest Camel Fair

It’s not just a livestock market — it’s a celebration of Rajasthan’s soul. From camel parades to cultural performances, it’s a festival unlike any other.

2. Blending Tradition & Adventure

Whether you’re watching a camel race, riding a hot air balloon, or joining a village cooking session — Pushkar blends old-world charm with modern excitement.

3. Perfect for Group Travel

Corporate groups, families, or friends — Pushkar offers shared experiences that bring people closer. The camaraderie around campfires is priceless.

4. Photography Paradise

The golden light, vibrant turbans, and desert silhouettes make Pushkar a dream for photographers.

5. Close to Jaipur & Ajmer

Located just 145 km from Jaipur, it’s easy to include Pushkar in your Rajasthan travel circuit — ideal for weekend getaways or cultural detours.

Highlights from the Corporate Group’s Experience

• Stay: Luxury desert camp with bonfires, private tents, and live music.

• Adventure: Camel rides, jeep safari, hot air balloon, and camel fair activities.

• Culture: Brahma Temple, Pushkar Lake Aarti, folk dance nights.

• Food: Authentic Rajasthani thalis, snacks, and traditional desserts.

• Team Moments: Cooking classes, group games, and evening performances.

Local Tips from Rajesh – Rajasthan Tour India

• Best Time to Visit: November (during the Pushkar Camel Fair).

• What to Pack: Cotton clothes for day, light jackets for night, hats, and sunscreen.

• Stay Options: Heritage camps or boutique hotels like Ananta Resort, Dera Masuda, or Camp Bliss.

• Must-Try Foods: Dal baati churma, malpua, and Pushkar’s famous rose lassi.

• Shopping Tips: Buy handmade jewelry, camel leather products, and colorful textiles.

• Cultural Etiquette: Always ask before photographing locals; remove shoes at temples.

Suggested 4-Day Itinerary for the Pushkar Fair

Day 1:

• Arrival at Pushkar camp

• Evening folk show & dinner under the stars

Day 2:

• Explore the Camel Fair & local markets

• Visit Brahma Temple and Pushkar Lake

• Attend evening Aarti

Day 3:

• Hot air balloon ride

• Jeep safari to nearby dunes & villages

• Desert cooking session and cultural night

Day 4:

• Farewell camel ride

• Local breakfast & return journey

FAQs – Pushkar Camel Fair for Group Travelers

Q1. What is the best time to attend the Pushkar Camel Fair?
The fair usually takes place in November, around the full moon (Kartik Purnima).

Q2. How can corporate or large groups plan their trip?
It’s best to book through experts like Rajasthan Tour India, who handle accommodations, transport, and activities seamlessly.

Q3. What kind of stay options are available?
From luxury tents with modern amenities to heritage resorts, there’s a wide range of stays suitable for all budgets.

Q4. Is it safe and comfortable for large groups?
Yes. The fairgrounds are well-managed, and Rajesh’s team ensures comfort, hygiene, and guided experiences throughout.

Q5. What are the must-see events at the fair?
Camel races, moustache competitions, puppet shows, rural sports, and evening cultural performances.

Q6. How far is Pushkar from Jaipur or Delhi?
Pushkar is about 145 km from Jaipur (3 hours by car) and 400 km from Delhi (8 hours by road).

Q7. Can foreigners participate in activities?
Absolutely! Visitors are welcome to ride camels, join folk dance nights, and even participate in local games.

Mr. Bakshi

For Mr. Bakshi and his 20-member corporate group, the Pushkar Camel Fair wasn’t just an escape — it was an immersion into the real Rajasthan. From camel parades to quiet temple moments, every second was filled with discovery.

The dunes became their boardroom, the stars their ceiling, and laughter their soundtrack. They didn’t just witness the fair — they became part of it.

Thanks to Rajesh from Rajasthan Tour India, their journey was flawlessly organized — every camp, every meal, every smile perfectly timed.

So, if you’re planning to experience the Pushkar Camel Fair, whether with friends, family, or colleagues — don’t just watch it from afar. Drive into the desert, live it, and let Rajasthan’s magic unfold around you.