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attraction of Pushkar and it has
immense significance for the followers of Hinduism. According to the legends, the lake was dedicated to Lord Brahma after a lotus fell from his hands and dropped into this picturesque valley. A lake sprang up on the same spot latter on which is considered holy. The entire lake is supposed to be surrounded by 500 temples, 52 palaces, and 52 ghats. On the occasion of Kartik Purnima in November every year, devotees take holy bath in the lake and a fair is organized, known world over as the Pushkar Fair.
Savitri Temple
The temple is dedicated to Savitri, the wife of Lord Brahma and located on the top of the Ratnagiri Hill. According to the legends when Lord Brahma performed a Yagna (holy fire devoted to gods) along with Gayatri, a local milkmaid, furious Savitri cursed her husband that he would never be worshipped anywhere except in Pushkar and that too only once a year. Savitri left for the Ratnagiri Hill after cursing her husband and immolated herself there. There is beautiful statue of Goddess Savitri inside the temple.
Other Important Temples
Other important temples in Pushkar are 19th century Mahadeva Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva - The Destroyer, with five faces. It is known for the elegance of its structure and ornamentation. Rangaji Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu - the preserver and built in the South Indian architectural style. There are two massive dwarpals (gatekeepers) structure in front of the main gate and an image of Garuda inside. Another important temple is of Varaha - an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and built in 12th century.
Pushkar Bazaar
A bustling bazaar, the Pushkar local market offers tourist as well pilgrimage related products. A range of souvenirs could be purchased including the Rajasthani costumes, jewellery, embroidered fabrics, decorative pieces and groovy accessories. The bazaar becomes a hub of activity during the annual Pushkar Fair.
Pushkar Fair
The most important reason of Pushkar being on the international travel map is Pushkar Fair. The fair is held every year in the month of November during the Kartik Purnima (day of full moon) when hundreds of thousands of people take a holy dip in the sacred Pushkar Lake. This is also an occasion to organize the largest camel fair in the world.
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