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Pushkar is a town in the Ajmer district in the state of Rajasthan India. It is situated at 14 km North West from Ajmer at an average elevation of 510 metres (1673 feet) and is one of the five sacred dhams (pilgrimage sites for devout Hindus). It is often called "Tirth Raj" - the king of pilgrimage sites - and has in recent years become a popular destination for foreign tourists. Pushkar is one of the oldest cities of India. Pushkar lies on the shore of Pushkar Lake. The date of its actual origin is not known but legend associates Lord Brahma with its creation. It is mentioned that Brahma performed penance here for 60000 years to have a glimpse of Vishnu. Pushkar has many temples. Most of the temples are not very old since many were destroyed during Muslim conquests in the area. The Pushkar lake has 52 ghats where pilgrims descend to the lake to bathe in the sacred waters. Pushkar is also famous for its annual Pushkar Camel Fair. The natural environment of Pushkar and the sacred lake has become increasingly degraded in the last few decades.
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