From Ajmer to Pushkar

Pushkar is a town in the state of Rajasthan in India. Pushkar means born due to flower. In Hindu mythology, It is said that gods released a swan with lotus in its beak and let it fall on earth where Brahma would perform a grand yagna. The place where lotus fell was so called Pushkar. It is situated 14 Km from Ajmer and is one of the five sacred dhams, pilgrimage sites for devout Hindus; it is often called "Tirth Raj" (the king of pilgrimage sites). In recent years it has become a popular destination for foreign tourists.

Pushkar lies on the shore of Pushkar Lake. It has five principle temples, many smaller temples and 52 ghats where pilgrims decend to the lake to bathe in the sacred waters. One of the primary temples is the 14th century temple dedicated to Brahma, the Hindu god of creation. Very few temples to Lord Brahma exist anywhere in the world,Pushkar is also famous for its annual Pushkar Camel Fair.

The natural environment of Pushkar and the sacred lake has become increasingly degraded in the last few decades. The problems stem mainly from overdevelopment of tourist facilities and the deforestation of the surrounding area.