Experience the Magic of the Pushkar Fair
If you’re planning a trip to Rajasthan, the Pushkar Fair is an unmissable highlight! Held during the Hindu month of Kartik, just after the Diwali festival in November, this vibrant cattle fair transforms the tranquil town of Pushkar into a bustling hub of activity for ten exhilarating days.
Known as a historic livestock market, Pushkar attracts breeders from far and wide who come to buy and sell camels, cattle, and horses. Over the years, the fair has grown tremendously, making it one of Asia’s largest livestock events. The once-peaceful town buzzes with energy as thousands of pilgrims, tourists, and local traders set up camps and tents alongside their herds of animals.
The fair features an array of thrilling events, including camel, horse, and donkey competitions held in a specially designed amphitheater, where the cheers of the crowd add to the electric atmosphere. For two weeks, Pushkar is alive with excitement, showcasing colorful ferris wheels, open-air theaters, and enticing food stalls that offer a taste of local cuisine. In the evenings, visitors gather around bonfires to enjoy traditional melodies that echo through the night.
The fair reaches its zenith on the full moon night (Purnima), when pilgrims flock to the sacred Pushkar Lake for a ritual dip. As the sun sets, the serene waters are illuminated by terracotta lamps floating on leaf boats, creating a magical scene.
Among the stars of the fair are the legendary Marwari horses, whose roots trace back to ancient civilizations around 6,000-5,000 BC. Originating from the Marwar region of Rajasthan, these horses are known for their endurance, adaptability, and striking appearance. Protected by the Indian government since 1952, they are predominantly bred in the arid desert areas of Rajasthan.
Marwari horses are medium-sized and boast a proud yet graceful stance. Their remarkable resilience has earned them admiration from the ancient Rajput warriors. With heights ranging from 145 to 169 cm for stallions and 142 to 163 cm for mares, these horses come in shades of bay, gray, and piebald. They possess an elegant head with distinctive features, including large, intelligent eyes and unique inward-curving ears that can rotate 180 degrees.
Their robust physique includes a well-defined neck, strong legs, and resilient hooves, making them perfectly suited for the challenges of desert life.
Join Go Horse for an unforgettable journey through these enchanting landscapes, riding the iconic Marwari horses and experiencing the vibrant culture of the Pushkar Fair firsthand!
