Located in the popular city of Pushkar in the colourful Indian state of Rajasthan is the ancient Savitri Temple. Dedicated to the Hindu goddess, Savitri, this temple is located atop Ratnagiri hill, a steep climb from the famous Pushkar Lake. The temple is a much-revered pilgrimage spot as is evident from the number of devotees flocking to the temple each day. It is said to have been constructed in 1687 CE and reconstructed by an illustrious family in the early 1900s. But the idols of the deities inside the temple date back to about 700 AD. The temple can be accessed by climbing the steps from the base of the hill or taking a ropeway car to the top. Along the way, scenic views of the surrounding valley, Pushkar city and Pushkar Lake can be enjoyed. Pay your respects at the temple and then make your way out to the lookout points from where panoramic views of the whole of Pushkar await you. For all this and more, take a look at our guide to Savitri Temple, Pushkar.
Things to do / highlights
Enjoy sunrise or sunset views from the top
One of the most fascinating things to do at this temple is to take in the amazing views from the top of the hill, right outside the temple. Make the trip to the temple at sunrise or an hour before sunset for the best views of the surrounding hills, valley, Pushkar city and of course, the Pushkar Lake. Admire the beauty of the hills against the kaleidoscopic colours of the sky and snap breathtaking pictures of the scenic beauty that is sure to set your Instagram feed on fire!
Offer prayers as you admire the 7th-century idols
Though not mandated, you can choose to follow the Hindu method of worship or offering prayers. Begin by ringing a bell suspended from the ceiling and then make your way to the area just before the sanctum sanctorum, where the seventh-century idols of Hindu goddesses, Savitri and Gayatri, are situated. Gaze upon these ancient idols and offer your prayers or just bask in the energy of the devotees thronging the temple. Either way, you are sure to have a beautiful spiritual experience.
Ride the ropeway for amazing Pushkar city views
The most convenient way to reach the temple from the base of the hill is also the most picturesque. About 1000 steep steps lie between the base and top of the hill. You can hike to the top or ride a ropeway cable car. For a charge of about USD 1.27 (INR 90), a ropeway service is available to take devotees and tourists to the top of the hill. Along the way, gorgeous views of Pushkar town and the hills can be enjoyed.
Travellers tips
Morning walk
Posted by Dean Gough on Thursday, 9 January 2020
Watch out for monkeys
Similar to other temples in North India, monkeys are often found around and on the paths leading to popular pilgrimage sites. On the climb up to the Savitri temple, watch out for monkeys as they can sometimes be aggressive and snatch your belongings. It is advisable to keep eatables and drinks tucked away in your bag and keep a firm grip on your bag, cap, mobile phones, etc.
Time your visit
Pushkar is also famous for the Pushkar Fair, annual livestock fair and cultural celebration that lasts over a period of few days. It starts on the full moon of the Hindu calendar month of Kartik (generally in November) and if you time your visit to Savitri temple at this time, you can visit the Pushkar Fair at the same time too. Plus, it signals the start of the winter season, which is also the best time to visit Pushkar. The weather is cool and quite pleasant in winter. But remember to dress in layers as it can get quite windy and chilly up on the hill sometimes.
Restrictions on attire
Since the temple is a place of worship, it is advisable to dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees. You will have to remove your footwear before you enter the temple, so be mindful of that too.
How to get there
Combination of public and private transport
Since no direct public transportation is available to the temple, you’ll have to take a combination of public and private transport to reach it. The closest train station to Pushkar is at Ajmer, from where you can take a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the base of the temple hill. From the base of the hill, take the ropeway or trek up the hill.
Private vehicle
Pushkar town is also well-connected to other major cities in the state and country by road. It is located just two kilometres away from the temple on Kharekhari Road, making it very easy for travellers to reach the temple by car. Driving directions are also easily available.
Parking information
Parking is available at the base of the hill in front of the stairs and entrance to the ropeway leading up to the temple. Parking is free but the number of spaces may be limited.
Savitri Temple Information
Savitri Temple
Address: Kharekhari Road, Ganahera, Pushkar, Rajasthan 305022, India
Opening hours: 6am - 12pm, 2pm - 6:30pm (daily)
Department of tourism: Rajasthan Tourism
Private Pushkar Sightseeing Trip from Jaipur - Klook
Duration: 10hrsDuration
History
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