Evening aarti at Pushkar Lake ghats
Evening Aarti at Pushkar Lake is a serene, sensory-rich ritual held on the ghats of Pushkar Lake as the sun sets. Priests chant Vedic mantras while offering rows of oil lamps (diyas) and incense, creating a golden spectacle reflected on the water. It's a living cultural experience—part devotion, part theatrical performance—and a highlight for visitors to Pushkar.
Location
Pushkar Lake Ghats (main aarti at Varaha/Brahma ghats), Pushkar, India
Duration
45–60 minutes (including pre- and post-ritual activity)
Best Time to Visit
October to March for pleasant evenings and clear skies. The aarti is daily at sunset—arrive 20–45 minutes before sunset for a good view.
Pricing
Free to attend. Donations to priests or ghat caretakers are customary (suggested: ₹10–₹200). Vendors may sell flowers, lamps and offerings (₹20–₹300).
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Golden lamps reflected on the lake as priests perform synchronized offerings
Traditional Vedic chants and bhajans
Opportunity to offer flowers or diyas and receive blessings
Atmosphere: a mix of devotion, tourism and photogenic sunset views
Nearby evening markets and local snacks to explore after the aarti
Itinerary
Arrive at the ghats and find a spot—seating is informal on steps or low walls.
Popular ghats near Brahma and Varaha are busiest; secure a front-row spot early.
Vendors sell flowers, incense, small diyas and rose petals for offerings.
Purchasing a small offering is customary if you want to participate.
Aarti begins: priests perform lamp offerings while chanting; lamps are circled rhythmically.
Stand respectfully, clap or join silently. Photography is allowed but avoid using flash or disturbing the ritual.
Devotees may perform pradakshina (circumambulation) of the lake and receive prasad/blessings.
Crowds can surge—move carefully and keep belongings secure.
Stroll the ghats, visit nearby stalls, or head to the evening market.
Combine with a visit to Brahma Temple (short walk) or find a rooftop cafe for a panoramic view.
Safety Requirements
Dress modestly — cover shoulders and knees out of respect for the religious setting.
Remove shoes when entering certain ghats or temple areas if requested.
Stay well back from the edge of wet, uneven steps—ghats can be slippery.
Supervise children closely; crowds can be dense during peak season.
Keep valuables secure and avoid leaving bags unattended.
Be mindful of open flames (diyas) and incense—maintain a safe distance.
If you have mobility issues, choose a less-crowded ghat or request assistance.
Tips
Arrive 30–45 minutes before sunset for the best viewing spot and cooler temperatures.
Bring a small cash amount for donations, offerings and snacks—ATMs in Pushkar are limited.
Wear non-slip shoes for navigating the steps; carry a shawl in cooler months.
Use a smartphone or camera without flash; ask permission before filming priests up close.
If you want a quieter experience, join from the less-crowded ghats on the northern side.
Combine the aarti with an evening rooftop dinner to enjoy a panoramic view of the lit ghats.
Respect local customs: do not interrupt aarti, avoid loud conversation during the ritual, and accept that photography etiquette varies by ghat.
