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The world's largest camel fair may not be at the top of everyone's list of must-sees, but the annual event at Pushkar is a true spectacle, a riot of colour and a cauldron of ancient tradition. This small town in eastern Rajasthan, on the edge of a beautiful small lake, boasts 400 temples and 52 ghats (bathing platforms). Each November thousands of camel traders haggle through the day, before – towards the end of fair – they get down to the less serious business of camel racing. There is also a form of camel musical chairs and even a camel beauty pageant. The colour of the men's turbans and the pleated 'ghagaras' (ankle-length skirts) of the women and the constant clamour and movement strike a memorable contrast with the sombre tones and the stillness of the desert. Many traders set up shops at Pushkar Fair, selling bead necklaces from Nagaur, woollen blankets from Merta, brassware from Jodhpur and Jaipur, saddles, ropes, and much more.

Times
Early morning-late evening.