Pushkar Temple

Brahma Temple

The Brahma Temple in Pushkar is the only standing Hindu temple in India dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe. Built in the 14th century, it stands on a high platform near Pushkar Lake. Brahma is part of the Holy Trinity in Hinduism, alongside Vishnu the Preserver and Shiva the Destroyer. While temples dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu are numerous across India, temples for Brahma are rare, making this one of the holiest.

Marble steps lead up to the temple, where a silver turtle is embossed in the floor facing the sanctorum.

Gayatri Temple (Pap Mochini Temple)

Located in the northern section of Pushkar, the Pap Mochini Temple is not particularly known for its architecture or deity but for the belief that visiting this temple purifies anyone who kills a Brahmin. This belief was more relevant in ancient times, as modern law does not consider this.

Savitri Temple

The Savitri Temple, situated on the other side of Pushkar, honors Savitri, Brahma’s wife. According to legend, Gayatri, who sat by Brahma’s side during his ceremonial sacrifice, was an untouchable and was purified by being put into the mouth of a cow and taken out from the other end. To reach the temple, it is best to take the route from behind the bus stand and walk up a hill. Both the Savitri and Gayatri temples are closed during lunch hours, so the best time to visit is either before noon or in the evening.

Rangji Temple

Pushkar has two Raghunath temples, one old and one relatively new. The Old Raghunath Temple, built in 1823, houses images of Venugopal, Narasimha (Vishnu’s fourth incarnation), and Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. However, foreign tourists may find a sign that says “Foreigners not allowed.” This segregation is unusual for Indian temples.

The temple is notable for its South Indian style of architecture, featuring a high-rising Gopuram.

Other Temples in Pushkar

Pushkar boasts over 400 temples, including the Banji ka Mandir, Atmateshwar Mahadeo Temple, Varah Temple, and Man Mandir.