Heart of India

Every fall, the sleepy town of Pushkar swells with pilgrims, traders, camels, and cattle who gather for Rajasthan’s most vibrant celebration. With its carnival-like atmosphere—complete with Ferris wheels, music, dancing, and colorfully dressed camels—the Pushkar Festival has become one of India’s must-see events.

In an ideal mix of business and pleasure, the Nagaur Festival begins when carefully groomed camels, horses, and cattle, along with their turbaned owners and prospective buyers, descend upon Nagaur. As the sun sets, however, the festivities begin, as locals indulge in lively games of tug-of-war, henna painting, and camel races.