Pushkar is one of the most vibrant and soulful towns in Rajasthan. Known for its sacred lake, ancient temples, colorful markets, and peaceful vibes, Pushkar is a dream for travelers seeking a unique cultural experience — and it’s perfect for a budget trip! Here’s a simple 2 day plan to help you explore the best of Pushkar without breaking the bank.
Day 1: Dive into Spirituality and Streets
Morning: Visit the Brahma Temple
Start your morning with a visit to the Brahma Temple, one of the few temples in the world dedicated to Lord Brahma. The temple is simple yet highly sacred, drawing pilgrims from across India.
Entry is free, but remember to dress modestly and maintain silence inside.
Breakfast: Local Cafés by the Lake
After your spiritual start, enjoy breakfast at a café near Pushkar Lake. Try banana pancakes, masala chai, or Israeli breakfast platters — popular among travelers. Expect to spend around ₹150–₹200.
Mid-Morning: Explore Pushkar Lake and Ghats
Take a serene walk around Pushkar Lake and its 52 ghats. Witness the locals performing rituals and the peaceful vibe surrounding the waters. You can sit at the ghats, meditate, or just soak in the spiritual atmosphere.
Entry is free, but beware of aggressive priests demanding donations — only offer if you genuinely wish to.
Lunch: Vegetarian Meals
Head to a budget-friendly restaurant like Out of the Blue or Sunset Café, where you’ll find delicious thalis or vegetarian dishes for ₹200–₹250.
Afternoon: Wander the Markets
The Pushkar Market is colorful and lively, offering:
- Handicrafts
- Silver jewelry
- Leather goods
- Tie-dye clothes
- Handmade soaps and incense
Bargaining is a must! You can easily spend an hour or two wandering and shopping.
Evening: Sunset at Savitri Temple
In the late afternoon, hike up (or take a ropeway for ₹150 one-way) to the Savitri Temple for a stunning sunset view over Pushkar town and lake. The trek takes around 30–45 minutes.
The view from the top is absolutely worth the effort!
Dinner: Rooftop Dining
After descending, head to a rooftop café for dinner. Popular spots like La Pizzeria or Sixth Sense offer great views and meals for ₹300 or less. Try wood-fired pizza, falafel, or pasta — Pushkar’s café scene is quite international.
Day 2: Culture, Adventure, and Relaxation
Morning: Desert Safari or Camel Ride
Start your second day with a short desert safari or camel ride around the outskirts of Pushkar.
Local operators offer camel rides for ₹300–₹500 (short rides) or ₹1000+ for longer safaris that include nearby villages.
If you prefer a calm start, you can do yoga classes at local studios like Pushkar Yoga Garden (drop-in sessions for ₹300–₹400).
Breakfast: Healthy Start
After the ride or yoga, fuel up with a smoothie bowl or muesli at places like Ganga Laffa or Coffee Temple Café for ₹150–₹200.
Mid-Morning: Visit Pap Mochani Temple
Visit Pap Mochani Temple (around 2 km from the town center) for some light trekking and scenic views. It’s a small temple, but the location is peaceful and uncrowded.
No entry fee required.
Lunch: Rajasthani Cuisine
Have a traditional Rajasthani meal at a dhaba like Raju Terrace Garden. Dishes like dal baati churma and gatte ki sabzi will cost around ₹200–₹250.
Afternoon: Chill Time at a Café or Take a Dip
Pushkar is meant to be experienced slowly. Spend your afternoon chilling at a café with a book, some chai, and music. Some travelers also try Ayurvedic massages (costs around ₹500–₹700) if you’re in the mood for complete relaxation.
Swimming pools are also available at some hotels for a small charge if you want to cool off!
Evening: Pushkar Aarti and Final Stroll
Wrap up your Pushkar trip by attending the evening aarti at Varaha Ghat or Gau Ghat.
The atmosphere during the evening prayers, with diyas floating on the water and chants filling the air, is magical.
Dinner: Last Treat
For your last meal, pick a rooftop spot like Om Shiva Garden or Baba Rooftop Restaurant, offering meals under ₹300.
Budget Tips for Pushkar:
- Stay: Budget hostels and guesthouses start from ₹400–₹700 per night.
- Food: Stick to local cafés and thali places; meals easily under ₹300 each.
- Transport: Pushkar is a walking town! No need for autos unless visiting outskirts (camel rides or bike rentals cost ₹300–₹400/day).
- Shopping: Bargain politely; check prices at a few shops before buying.
Final Thoughts:
Pushkar is not just a place; it’s an experience of peace, spirituality, and bohemian vibes. In two days, you can enjoy sacred rituals, delicious international food, desert adventures, soulful markets, and stunning sunsets — all while spending only ₹3000–₹4000.
It’s one of those rare places where time feels slower, people are friendlier, and every corner has a story.
