Temples in Pushkar

One of the holiest sites in India, Pushkar is a laid back town surrounded by hills on three sides on the desert border. Also known as the ‘city of temples’, Pushkar is one of the oldest Indian cities housing over 400 ancient temples. A tour to Rajasthan cannot be completed without visiting the famed and legendary temples, especially those of Pushkar. Apart from the various shrines that Pushkar boasts of, the Brahma Temple is the special attraction since it is the only temple in India dedicated to Lord Brahma. The somewhat somnolent town of Pushkar reverberates in enthusiasm and liveliness with hectic activities during fairs and festivals, the most prominent being the Pushkar Camel Fair. Check out the various temples of Pushkar that will surely hold you back herein.

Brahma Temple
An important pilgrim centre for the Hindus, the Brahma Temple is nestled in the Pushkar valley, which lies beyond the Nagaparvat and Anasagar Lake. This place, filled with natural picturesque beauty, holds a special place in the hearts of the Indians. It is believed that Lord Brahma, together with all the gods and goddesses, performed a Yagya here. Legend also has it that the ancient Lake Sarovar had appeared miraculously, when a lotus fell from the hands of Lord Brahma and dropped into this valley. Brahma Temple is the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma (the creator of the universe according to Hindu mythology) in the entire country. You can identify it from far, by its red spire and the image of a hans (the goose considered sacred to Lord Brahma). Built in marble, the temple is decorated with silver coins and reveals a silver turtle on its floor.

Savitri Temple
Dedicated to Lord Brahma's first wife, Goddess Savitri, this temple is situated on a hillock right behind the Brahma temple. While climbing the long series of steps leading to the temple, one can catch the panoramic view of the lake and surrounding temples and sand dunes. The presence of the only Brahma Temple in Pushkar is the outcome of Savitri’s curse to Brahma on marrying another Goddess, Gayatri, while starting his yagna in Pushkar.

Rangji Temple
The gracious and conspicuous Rangji Temple is another popular shrine that witnesses thousands of pilgrims and tourists every year. The temple is dedicated to Lord Rangji, believed to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The influence of South Indian style, Rajput style and Mughal style in the temple’s architecture is highly noticeable and eye-catching. The high rising ‘Gopuram’ prevalent mainly in the temples present in South India is another feature of the temple that attracts visitors.

Warah Temple
The Warah Temple houses the image of Lord Vishnu in the fifth incarnation of a wild boar. Constructed by King Anaji Chauhan (1123-1150), this temple is considered equally significant as the most popular Brahma temple. According to mythology, it is believed that Vishnu came to earth in the form of a wild boar to kill the demon Hirnayaksh and liberate the land from his atrocities.

Apteshwar Temple
This 12th century Apteshwar Temple is another important shrine visited by numerous devotees round the year. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has been artistically and splendidly constructed. Apparently the oldest and most revered Indian God, Lord Shiva is believed to have come down to this temple and bless his devotees heartily.