As every year approaches an end or perhaps, when a new year is about to begin, I have noticed a strange feeling of discontent encompass my very being. I feel a certain sense of detachment from my surroundings and it seems that my soul wants to break free from all its worldly entrapments and find peace and tranquility from within. Staying in India has its advantages in the fact that there are many such places that you visit, that are sure to rejuvenate your senses. One such getaway for me has always been Haridwar and Rishikesh. However, this year I was yearning for something new and somewhere different and my friends suggested a visit to the Pushkar temple. I was intrigued by the mythological and historical background of this place and have decided to pay the colorful land of Rajasthan a visit, if only to visit Pushkar.

Pushkar is one of the sacred pilgrimage places for all Hindus and its association with Lord Brahma, the ultimate creator, lends its own charm to the place. The name Pushkar itself, is derived from twp words, Pushp meaning flower and Kar meaning hand. The story goes that flower petals had fallen from Lord Brahma's hands to give rise to the most scared lake in Pushkar and thus the city was created. The most famous temple in Pushkar is known to pay homage to Lord Brahma and is reputed to be the only temple in India to worship the creator, Brahma. This story itself has added to the special charm of this temple in Pushkar and has been able to draw crowds both from India and abroad. The architectural beauty of the temple is also awe-inspiring. This 14th century Pushkar temple is built on a high plinth and has marble steps leading up to it.

The Brahma temple in Pushkar has a silver turtle, which been beautifully carved on the floor and faces the sanctorum. Many donors have provided silver coins that have been embedded into the marble floor, with the donors names engraved on the coins. The Goddess Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of music and learning who is also regarded as Lord Brahma's consort, is designed on the walls of the temple. The overall beauty of the place is sure to mesmerize any individual who steps into the temple compound and this temple itself makes the trip to Pushkar worthwhile. However, the Brahma temple is not the only attraction that draws you to Pushkar, as the place has many more attractions to draw the crowds.

The land of Pushkar is home to many more temples and has lakes that are deemed sacred to the Hindu community. In case you are planning a trip to Pushkar with your friends or family, it is advisable to approach a travel agent and book your accommodation in advance. The famous fairs of Pushkar also attract a large crowd and you could be inconvenienced if you land up in Pushkar at a time when the place is overflowing with people from all walks of life. It may make sense to surf the internet and gather all possible information about the place and plan out an exciting trip to Rajasthan.