The Pushkar Camel Fair is one of the most famous cultural festivals in India. It is held every year in Pushkar, Rajasthan, and attracts travelers, pilgrims, photographers, and traders from all over the world. In 2026, the Pushkar Camel Fair is expected to take place around 22–23 November, ending on the sacred Kartik Purnima full moon. These dates mark the most important and spiritual days of the fair.
During this time, Pushkar turns into a lively desert town filled with decorated camels, colorful clothes, music, and local traditions. The fair is not limited to one spot. It spreads across the camel fairground, Pushkar town, and the holy Pushkar Lake. Visitors can explore the camel trading areas, watch cultural events, shop in local markets, and visit famous places like the Brahma Temple, Pushkar Lake ghats, and nearby Ajmer city. Together, the fair and these places create a complete travel experience, not just a festival visit.
What Is the Pushkar Camel Fair?
The Pushkar Camel Fair, also known as Pushkar Mela, has a long history, beginning as a camel and cattle trading fair. Horse, camel, and cow traders and farmers from the desert region of Rajasthan traveled to Pushkar to buy and sell their animals at this fair.
The fair has grown over time and is currently one of the largest camel fairs in the world. The fair also includes many other aspects, such as cultural shows, local competitions, religious ceremonies, and commercial markets, although camel trading is still very much an active aspect of the fair, particularly in the early days of the fair.
Originally a Camel Trading Fair
The fair started as an opportunity for local farmers and traders to sell and purchase camels, horses, and cattle. It is still one of the largest livestock fairs in the world with over 30,000 animals in attendance from rural people.
Now a Major Cultural Festival
Over the years the fair has grown into a massive celebration of Rajasthani culture with tourists, photographers, pilgrims and performers from all over the world. It’s famous not just for the animals but also for:
- Folk music and dance
- Camel races and beauty contests
- Spiritual rituals by Pushkar Lake
- Colorful markets and street food
- Longest mustache and turban tying competitions
It’s all tradition, excitement and spirituality in one place.
Why it’s special:
- Centuries old traditions meet modern experiences.
- Rural India at its rawest.
- One of the largest camel fairs in the world but a cultural deep dive.
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Pushkar Camel Fair 2026 Dates
The Pushkar Camel Fair follows the Hindu lunar calendar. The most important day is Kartik Purnima, the full moon day.
In 2026, Kartik Purnima is expected to fall around 22–23 November. These are the peak days of the fair, when:
- The largest number of pilgrims arrive
- Holy bathing happens at Pushkar Lake
- Cultural events reach their highest energy
- Crowds are at their maximum
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Starts | November 22, 2026 (Prabodhini Ekadashi) |
| Main Fair Period | November 23–November 29, 2026 |
| Ends | November 29, 2026 (Kartik Purnima – Full Moon) |
Why these dates matter:
- Prabodhini Ekadashi signifies the awakening of Lord Vishnu, and the beginning of festivities.
- The last five days before Kartik Purnima bring the greatest crowds for trade, competition, rituals, and, of course, the auspicious bathing in Pushkar lake.
What to Expect Day-by-Day
| Date | Highlight |
|---|---|
| November 22 | Opening, livestock traders and festivities begin |
| November 23–November 29 | Camel trading peaks; competitions like beauty contests, folk events |
| Nov 28–29 (Full Moon) | Biggest crowds for camel races, mustache & turban contests, holy dip |
Pro Tip: Visit between November 23 and 29 to enjoy vibrant events without peak congestion.
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Where to Stay During Pushkar Camel Fair 2026
Pushkar gets very crowded during the fair so book early. You’ll find everything from budget guesthouses to luxury desert camps. Here’s a simple comparison to help you choose:
Accommodation Options in Pushkar
| Stay Type | Budget (per night) | Best For | Perks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget Hotels / Guesthouses | ₹800 – ₹1,500 | Backpackers, solo travelers | Basic rooms, walking distance to fairgrounds |
| Mid-Range Hotels | ₹1,500 – ₹3,500 | Couples, families | Rooftop restaurants, lake views, decent amenities |
| Luxury Tents / Desert Camps | ₹5,000 – ₹15,000+ | Tourists looking for a unique experience | Cultural shows, private bonfires, themed tents, full meals |
| Heritage Resorts (Pushkar/Ajmer) | ₹8,000+ | Premium travelers | Heritage architecture, spa, serene environment |
Tip: If you want a memorable stay, consider one of the desert glamping tents – the tents combine comfort with culture.
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Top Things to Do at Pushkar Camel Fair 2026
The Pushkar Camel Fair is full of exciting events, cultural representations, and local experiences. No matter if you’re a foodie, a photographer, spiritual, or a shopper, there is something for everyone.
1. Watch Camel Trading & Beauty Contests
- Early morning is best to see camel and cattle trading.
- Don’t miss the decorated camel competitions — camels dressed in colourful fabrics, bells and beads.
- There’s even a camel dance which is as fun as it sounds!
2. Enjoy Traditional Folk Shows
- Watch Kalbeliya dance, puppet shows and Rajasthani music.
- Street artists and musicians perform all day near the main ground.
3. Participate in Religious Rituals
- Join thousands of pilgrims for a holy dip in Pushkar Lake on Kartik Purnima.
- Visit the famous Brahma Temple, one of the only temple in the world dedicated to Lord Brahma.
4. Shop at Handicraft Bazaars
- Markets full of silver jewelry, camel leather products, colourful turbans and textiles.
- Great place for souvenirs.
5. Eat Rajasthani Food
- Try street food like kachori, malpua, poha and chaach (buttermilk).
- Many rooftop cafes have a view of the fair and lake.
6. Join the Fun Contests
- Be a part of quirky contests like:
- Longest Mustache
- Turban Tying
- Bridal Dress Contest
- Tug of War (Tourists vs Locals)
7. Try Adventure Activities
- Camel rides through the desert dunes
- Hot air balloon rides for a bird’s eye view of the fair
- Horse safaris and guided village tours
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Final Thoughts
The Pushkar Camel Fair 2026 provides a remarkable opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of Desert Rajasthan through activities such as camel trading and competition, rituals conducted at Pushkar Lake, and visiting the Brahma Temple. All aspects of the Pushkar Camel Fair will be memorable. You will have the opportunity to plan your visit, explore the fair, and have an authentic cultural experience that will stay with you for years to come.
FAQs
The Pushkar Camel Fair 2026 is expected around 22–23 November, with the main events and rituals happening on Kartik Purnima, the most spiritual day of the fair.
Visit early mornings at the fairground to watch camel trading, camel beauty contests, and races. These activities are busiest in the first half of the fair, before Kartik Purnima.
Travelers should explore Pushkar Lake ghats, Brahma Temple, local markets, and nearby Ajmer, combining spiritual rituals, shopping, and cultural experiences with the fair.
Book hotels or desert camps in advance, arrive a day before the peak, carry cash and water, wear light cotton clothes, and use local guides to explore camel trading and village performances.
Visitors can take camel safaris to nearby villages, participate in local contests, see authentic desert rituals, and shop for handmade silver jewelry, camel leather goods, and traditional turbans not available elsewhere.
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