The Pushkar Camel Fair is a great way to see a different side of Rajasthan. Every year, Pushkar hosts a variety of people, including camel and cattle traders, pilgrims, local artists, photographers and tourists.
The fair is great for seeing lots of different activities. Pushkar has decorated camels, traditional clothing, folk culture, local markets, competitions and religious activities all around the area of Pushkar Lake. In addition, it’s a great way to see the culture and spiritual side of the town.
The dates for 2026 are 17th November to 24th November.
This article will give you all the information you need to know about the Pushkar Camel Fair 2026, including dates, activities, camel rides, travel tips, places to visit and more.
Pushkar Camel Fair 2026 Quick Info
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Pushkar Camel Fair 2026 |
| Location | Pushkar, Rajasthan |
| Dates | 17th November 2026 – 24th November 2026 |
| Famous For | Camels, cattle, culture and religious activities |
| Best Of | Camel Rides, Culture, Markets and Sightseeing |
| Closest Major City | Ajmer |
| Main Activity | Camel & Livestock Fair |
| Religious Activity | Pushkar Lake & Kartik Purnima |
According to the Rajasthan Tourism’s official calendar and Incredible India, 2026 will run from 17th November to 24th November.
What is the Pushkar Camel Fair?
The Pushkar Camel Fair (or Pushkar Mela) is a yearly fair in Pushkar, Rajasthan. While historically it has been a key spot for livestock trading, especially camels and cattle, it is now a key cultural activity.
Livestock owners and camel traders come to the area. They decorate their animals and prepare them for trading. As a result, visitors will see a traditional Rajasthani lifestyle.
It is also a key religious spot as it runs around the Kartik period. It is important around Kartik Purnima as pilgrims come to Pushkar Lake.
This means the Pushkar camel fair is a unique event with a mix of livestock, culture & religion.
Pushkar Camel Fair 2026 Dates
The Pushkar Camel Fair 2026 will run from 17th November to 24th November. This can be found on the Rajasthan Tourism 2024-2030 calendar of fairs and festivals, as well as the Rajasthan Tourism website.
It can also be found on Incredible India.
| Event | Dates |
|---|---|
| Pushkar Camel Fair 2026 | 17th November 2026 – 24th November 2026 |
| Main Fair | 17th November 2026 – 24th November 2026 |
| Religious Activity | Kartik Purnima Period |
| Kartik Purnima | Check Official Local Calendar |
Specific activities may have different times. Therefore, it is best to check the official calendar for specific details.
Where is the Pushkar Camel Fair?
The Pushkar Camel Fair takes place in Pushkar, Rajasthan, close to the city of Ajmer.
Activities take place around the fairground. There are many key religious spots and tourist attractions in Pushkar, such as Pushkar Lake and Brahma Temple.
Pushkar is surrounded by hills and creates a completely different vibe to bigger cities in Rajasthan, such as Jaipur and Jodhpur. As a result, the town will be very busy during the fair.
Why is the Pushkar Camel Fair famous?
The fair is famous as it puts together many elements of Rajasthan’s culture.
Some of the key activities are:
- Decorated camels and cattle
- Traditional livestock trading
- Camel activities & competitions
- Traditional Rajasthani clothing & turbans
- Folk music & dancing
- Local crafts
- Traditional food
- Cultural activities
- Religious activities
- Photography
The fair is a big camel and livestock event and has many competitions such as Matka Phod, longest moustache and bridal competition.
Camel & Cattle Fair
One of the oldest and most important aspects of the Pushkar Mela is the camel and cattle fair.
Camel owners and cattle traders will come to Pushkar to show off their animals. You will see groups of camels, often decorated with bright designs and traditional accessories.
The cattle fair in Pushkar will give visitors a chance to see a part of rural Rajasthan.
What to see?
During the livestock fair, you will see:
- Camels being prepped for the fair
- Cattle traders & owners
- Decorated camels
- Traditional clothing
- Animal competitions
- Livestock trading
- Rural Rajasthani culture
Remember that this is a working livestock fair, so give the animals plenty of space and don’t bother them.
Camel Ride
A camel ride can be a memorable activity during your time in Pushkar.
Camels and camel-related activities are often associated with the Pushkar fair. Taking a short ride can give you a new perspective.
Before booking, ask the company how long the ride lasts, how much it costs, what the route is and what is included.
Camel Ride Tips
- Choose a company who treat the animals well.
- Check the animal is in a good condition.
- Avoid companies with sick, injured or overworked animals.
- Ask how long the ride lasts.
- Wear comfortable clothing and closed/secure footwear.
- Bring a bottle of water, especially if visiting during the day.
- Follow any safety instructions given by the rider.
Taking photos can be more comfortable in the early mornings and later afternoons due to the softer light.
Activities at the Pushkar Fair 2026
There are plenty of activities you can do.
1. Livestock
Take some time to watch the livestock. The decorated camels and brightly dressed traders will make this one of the most interesting parts of the fair.
2. Camel Ride
If you would like to get a new perspective of the landscape, take a camel ride. Choose an ethical company and avoid very long rides during the hottest time of day.
3. Explore the Fair
Walk around the fair and take your time to see the different areas of the fair. You will find livestock, food, local produce and cultural activities.
4. Pushkar Lake
Pushkar Lake is a key religious spot in the town. Many pilgrims will visit during the festival period.
Therefore, be respectful when visiting and dress appropriately.
5. Brahma Temple
Brahma Temple is one of the most important religious spots in Pushkar. It can help give you an insight into the spiritual side of the fair.
6. Cultural Activities
There are lots of traditional activities included in the fair. Depending on the programme for the year, you may see folk activities.
7. Local Markets
The local markets are a great place to find crafts, clothing, jewellery, decorations and more.
Take your time and compare prices.
8. Local Food
You can enjoy some local food whilst in Pushkar. Look out for Rajasthani food and simple snacks.
9. Traditional Competitions
There are lots of competitions throughout the fair. Rajasthan Tourism have mentioned some competitions such as Matka Phod and longest moustache.
10. Sunrise/Sunset
The hills and open landscape around Pushkar can be stunning during sunrise/sunset. This can also be a more comfortable time to walk around and take photos.
11. Photography
There are plenty of photo opportunities during the camel pushkar experience, from decorated animals and traditional clothing to markets and landscapes.
However, ask permission to take close-up photos of people, especially during religious activities.
12. Spiritual Side of the Pushkar Festival
Don’t just stick to the fairground. Instead, take some time to explore Pushkar Lake, temples and the spiritual side of the town.
Pushkar Festival & Religious
Pushkar is a key pilgrimage site and has a strong connection to the Hindu calendar.
The fair runs around Kartik Purnima, a key full moon during the Kartik month in Hinduism. During this time, pilgrims will visit Pushkar Lake.
While the fair isn’t the same as the religious aspect of Pushkar, they are very connected.
As a traveller, you will get to see traditional culture in Rajasthan and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of Pushkar.
What to Expect at the Pushkar Fair Rajasthan
If you are visiting for the first time, you may want to know what to expect.
You can expect:
- Lots of people during key days
- Camels & livestock
- Dusty & open fairgrounds
- Traditional Rajasthani clothing
- Folk music & cultural activities
- Food stalls
- Local markets
- Religious activity
- Lots of photo opportunities
The fair can be very different from a normal visit to Pushkar. It can also be busier to stay and travel during the fair, so plan ahead.
Best Time to Visit the Pushkar Camel Fair 2026
The fair officially runs from 17th November 2026 to 24th November 2026.
If you are focused on the livestock and camel aspect, then you should try to visit during the busy days of the fair.
If you are interested in the religious aspect, then plan your visit around the key days of the Kartik festival. This can get quite busy.
If you are wanting to take photos, then the early mornings and late afternoons can be nice.
However, individual programmes can vary, so check the official calendar.
How to Get to the Pushkar Camel Fair
Pushkar is well connected to nearby cities.
By Plane
The closest main airport is Jaipur International Airport. From here, you can travel to Pushkar.
Alternatively, you can travel to Ajmer first.
By Train
The closest main train station is Ajmer Junction.
Ajmer is connected to many main cities across India via train. From here, you can travel to Pushkar.
Book your train tickets in advance if you are visiting during the fair, as there may be increased demand.
By Car
You can travel to Pushkar from Ajmer and other cities in Rajasthan.
By:
- Bus
- Taxi
- Private car
- Hire car
If you are driving during the fair, allow extra time as there may be increased traffic.
Where to Stay During the Pushkar Fair
Accommodation can be limited during the Pushkar Fair.
You can stay at:
- Budget hotels
- Guesthouses
- Mid-range hotels
- Camps
- Luxury tents
- Homestay
Camping is popular in Pushkar. Camps can be found close to the fairgrounds and on the edge of the desert.
Booking Tips
- Book in advance.
- Look at how close the accommodation is. Staying close to the fairground can save you time travelling. However, staying further away can give you a more peaceful experience.
- Look at what is included in the price of your room/camp, especially during the busy fair.
Pushkar Camel Fair 2026 Travel Tips
To make your trip easier:
- Book your hotel or camp in advance.
- Book train/bus tickets in advance.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Take sunscreen and sunglasses.
- Take a bottle of water.
- Wear comfortable clothing.
- Have some cash to spend on small items.
- Keep your phone and wallet safe in busy areas.
- Respect local traditions around the temples and Pushkar Lake.
- Ask for permission to take close-up photos.
- Don’t bother the animals.
- Avoid being out in the sun too much during the afternoon.
- Check the official calendar.
- Allow extra time for busy days due to traffic.
Pushkar Camel Fair vs Pushkar Festival
The Pushkar Camel Fair, Pushkar Fair, Pushkar Mela and Pushkar festival are often mentioned when referring to this annual event.
However, there are different aspects to the fair.
The camel & livestock fair is focused around the animals, trading, competitions and rural culture. The religious aspect is around the temples, Pushkar Lake and Kartik Purnima.
Overall, this makes the annual event much more than just a camel fair.
Should I Visit the Pushkar Camel Fair?
If you are interested in traditional culture, rural life, photography, festivals and religious sites in Rajasthan, then this can be an interesting addition to your trip.
As it is very different to visiting the forts and palaces in Rajasthan, you will get to see a large traditional livestock gathering, along with cultural and religious activities.
However, there can be busy days with lots of people, dusty environments, walking and busy accommodation. Therefore, plan your stay and transport in advance.
FAQs
The Pushkar Camel Fair 2026 will run from 17th November 2026 to 24th November 2026. This can be found on Rajasthan Tourism and Incredible India.
The Pushkar Camel Fair takes place in Pushkar, Rajasthan, close to Ajmer. Livestock and cultural activities take place around the fairgrounds. Pushkar Lake and key temples can be found in the town.
If you are interested in the culture, camels, livestock, local markets, photography and religious traditions in Rajasthan, then this can be a great experience. As it is a large traditional gathering, it can be very different to a normal sightseeing trip.
You can enjoy camel & livestock activities, cultural activities, markets and traditional competitions. Rajasthan Tourism have mentioned competitions such as Matka Phod and longest moustache.
The Pushkar Fair usually refers to the camel, cattle, cultural and trading activities. The festival refers to the wider period including religious activities around Pushkar Lake and Kartik Purnima. They are very connected during the annual event.
Final Thoughts
The Pushkar Camel Fair is one of those experiences in Rajasthan that combines travelling, culture and tradition.
From decorated camels, livestock traders, local markets, folk activities and the serene surroundings of Pushkar Lake, there is plenty to see.
If you are planning to visit in 2026, then add 17th November 2026 – 24th November 2026 to your calendar and book your accommodation and transport in advance.
Whether you are visiting for the camels, culture, photography or spiritual side of Pushkar, give yourself enough time to explore the town.
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