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Surbhi Agarwal: My Back-packing to Pushkar

  • JWB Post
  •  June 15, 2015

 

After a hectic schedule, it is important to take a break and explore the world. Being a writer, I feel it is not just a need but also a requirement for me. I have taken many short trips to various places; but Pushkar is a place which never fails to surprise me. Coming back to this place again and again has qualified me to guide you on how to travel Pushkar in best possible manner.

The town initially became famous due to its Camel Fair for foreigners. For Indians, especially for backpackers with a small pocket like me, this place has some old world charm.

Stay

It depends on your budget. For the shoestring traveler, one of the best options is a guesthouse or dharamshala. These places are small but provide you with clean rooms & all necessities.

‘Atithi Guest house’ is one of them.  It is situated in the outskirt of the main market and just the right amount of walk will take you here.

Approximate rent- 400 Rs to 1500 Rs (per day)

If you want luxury, Pushkar is full of 5-star resorts. Good is to choose the best deal of the season.

Approximate rent- 3000 Rs to 15000 Rs (per day)

Eat


My two favourite eat joints are ‘La Pizzeria’ and ‘Out of the Blue’. At La Pizzeria, try white sauce cannelloni. It is a delight and just costs Rs. 160 rupees. It also provides a view of the Pushkar Palace. ‘Out of the Blue’ is right in the main market that has interesting beverages with good view of the lake and the hills. To explore more, you can also try places like ‘Honey and Spice’ or ‘Sun n Sand’, that serve healthy food. Suggested delicacies there are coffee and yummy apple crumble.

The timings of all the places are different but most of them close down by 11 p.m.

If you want to enjoy desserts in the desert, try this – Radhe ji Ki dukan, known for its maalpua, which is a famous dish of Pushkar. Without it, your visit is incomplete. Mark my words. Don’t forget to take this heavenly delights home too that can last up to 10 days very easily.

Brahma Temple

This temple is the only one in the whole world. The temple has numerous stories associated with it that you can hear from the locals, shop owners, pundits, etc.

 

Since it is famous, it is always crowded with people performing various religious rituals. Because not every devotee can reach close to the idol, don’t get afraid if a coin or laddoo hits your head!

Pushkar Lake & Ghat

Walk around this artificial lake, along the Ghats whilst waiting for the sunset. The holy lake is an attraction by itself and has immense significance for the followers of Hinduism. The lake is believed to have miraculous heading and purifying water. If you want to conduct a small puja with a pandit, make sure to hire one as soon as you reach here to avoid a herd of them around you. I apply this trick!!

You can also join one of the daily evening prayers along the Ghats.

Varaah Ghat:  Around 6:45pm at the corner.
Gau Ghat:  Around 6pm with a center view of the lake.

Street Shopping

The main street leading down to the Pushkar Lake is Market road. Most of the shopping can be done here that has many small shops and stalls. Try your bargaining skills with the shopkeepers, but not too much since they have got many loyal firang customers. If you are fan of colors like me, you will not be disappointed.

The Hippie culture

I was a bit surprised with the smell of marijuana at the eastern end just in front of the Pushkar Palace. Young and old hippies doing their thing, playing a little music are a common sight here.

Warning: Do not walk on the Ghats with your shoes on, this is a sacred place. Also do not forget that smoking, alcohol and eating meat are banned. It can upset the locals. Dress respectfully and do not wear sleeveless tank tops, or shorts.

With all the tips and suggestions that I have given here, take a break from your busting city life and plan your weekend getaway now!

Photographer: Niteesh Jangid

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