Pushkar Camel Fair 2026 — Complete Visitor Guide

The world's largest camel fair. Complete guide to Pushkar Pushkar Mela — when to go, what to expect, accommodation and cultural tips.

The Pushkar Mela — What It Is

The Pushkar Camel and Livestock Fair is held annually in Kartik (October-November) on the banks of Pushkar Lake. Tens of thousands of camels, horses, and cattle are traded. Simultaneously one of India's most important Hindu pilgrimage sites and one of its most vibrant cultural festivals.

What to Expect at the Fair

The fairground: vast tented city, camel races, folk performances, turban-tying competitions, cultural events. The town: Hindu pilgrimage (Brahma Temple, Pushkar Lake ghats). The atmosphere: intense, colourful, chaotic, extraordinary.

Logistics

Pushkar town is small — accommodation fills months ahead for the Mela period. Ajmer (11 km) provides overflow accommodation. OTATTS packages include fair-period accommodation and guides. Negotiate camel rides directly at the fair — prices are reasonable off the beaten track.