Top 15 Photo Opportunities at the Pushkar Camel Fair

A Photographer’s Field Guide

The Pushkar Camel Fair has been one of India’s most visually arresting festivals for over a century — a whirlwind of culture, tradition, spirituality, and raw desert beauty.

Photographing the Pushkar Camel Fair is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the colour, spectacle, and carnival-like energy of one of the last great traditional fairs. It draws livestock traders, farmers, nomads, and villagers from across Rajasthan — each bringing their own stories, heritage, and presence into this dynamic tapestry.

As a photographer, stepping into Pushkar during this time feels like entering a living canvas, where every moment holds the potential for a captivating frame.

Over the years, as someone deeply focused on people and rituals, my journey through the lens at Pushkar has been nothing short of transformative. And through leading multiple Pushkar Photo Tours for over 12 years, I’ve had the privilege of discovering not only the iconic visuals but also the hidden gems that most travellers overlook.

I feel truly blessed to be connected with so many families in Pushkar — especially among the camel herder communities and local people — many of whom now feel like extended family. These relationships have allowed me (and the photographers I guide) to access intimate, authentic moments that go far beyond the tourist eye.

Here’s my curated list of the top 15 photography opportunities you shouldn’t miss at the Pushkar Camel Fair.

Camel harders are making fire to make their body warm during Pushkar Mela.

Camel herders sit and stand around a small bonfire at dawn during the Pushkar Mela in Rajasthan, India.

1. The Camel Traders and Their Herds

At the break of dawn, the sand dunes on the camel grounds come alive with movement and murmurs — a quiet rhythm before the chaos. Camel traders, dressed in bright turbans and weathered dhotis, begin their day tending to their herds, lighting small fires for chai, and negotiating deals over hushed conversations and shared laughter.

The camels, often adorned with colourful beads, nose rings, and decorative harnesses, stand silhouetted against the soft morning light, their breath visible in the chilly desert air. The entire scene — camels bathed in the golden hue of dust and sunrise, mingling with traders and nomads wrapped in warm shawls — feels like it’s been lifted from another century.

This is a very small window when the sun is just rising above the hills and the weather is cold and smoky. Magical images can be made during this time. One of my favourite moments has always been capturing the quiet bonds between the herders and their animals — a herder gently stroking his camel’s neck, a boy leading a caravan at dawn, or an old man whispering into the ear of his prize camel before a sale. These subtle, human connections give the images a deeper emotional resonance.

For photographers, it’s a visual symphony of texture, tone, and story. This is not just a market — it’s a living tradition, a cultural theatre unfolding on the desert stage.

2. The Daily Journey to the Hills

Each evening, as the bustle of the fairgrounds fades, most camels are led away from the dusty, crowded Pushkar Mela grounds toward the nearby Aravalli hills. There, they spend the night grazing in the quiet scrublands. At dawn, herders gently guide them back, their silhouettes emerging through the golden light and lingering dust — a scene steeped in Rajasthan’s timeless pastoral rhythm.

The bond between herder and herd is deep and instinctive, built on trust, vigilance, and shared nights under the open sky. Many herders sleep beside their camels, guarding them from harm.

Camels being led to the nearby Aravalli foothills for all-night grazing near the Pushkar Camel Fair grounds.

Camels returning to Pushkar Mela after night grazing in the Aravalli hills, guided by herders through the dusty dawn landscape.

For photographers, these moments offer an exceptional opportunity — whether capturing the dust-kissed silhouettes at sunrise or the slow, rhythmic procession along the hills. Each frame tells a story of resilience, connection, and life at the heart of the Pushkar Mela.

Camels returning to Pushkar Mela after night grazing in the Aravalli hills, guided by herders through the dusty dawn landscape

3. The Art of Camel Decoration

Pushkar is where even camels are transformed into living works of art. Traders spend hours adorning them with vibrant textiles, shimmering beads, elaborate haircuts, and striking patterns painted onto their bodies. These intricate designs are not just for show — they reflect pride, tradition, and the spirit of competition. While the official camel decoration contests inside the stadium can feel a little staged, I’ve found that the most natural and compelling shots often come from the camel grounds themselves. That’s where you’ll see moments like this — a young herder quietly preparing his camel in the golden light, adjusting ornaments, and adding final touches before meeting potential buyers. These candid scenes carry an authenticity that’s hard to recreate, and for photographers, they can be far more rewarding than the spotlight of the stadium.

A young camel herder in a red checked shirt decorates and prepares his camel early in the morning at the Pushkar Mela in Rajasthan, India.

4. Environmental Portraits of the Camel Herders

In the heart of the Pushkar Mela, camel herders become more than just caretakers of their animals — they are living embodiments of Rajasthan’s desert culture. Creating environmental portraits of these men means framing them not in isolation, but within the landscape, light, and atmosphere that define their way of life.

The sweeping dunes, the textured earth, and the silhouettes of their camels form as much a part of their identity as the vibrant turbans they wear. By working with natural light — whether the warm glow of dawn or the diffused tones of late afternoon — the portraits gain a depth that speaks of both place and personality.

These images are not hurried snapshots; they are quiet collaborations between photographer and subject. A good environmental portrait allows the viewer to sense the grit of the sand, the weight of the day’s labour, and the unspoken bond between herder and herd. In doing so, it becomes more than a picture — it becomes a story.

An elderly camel trader in a bright yellow turban stands proudly as the rising sun casts a golden glow over the fairground.

A confident camel trader in a vivid red turban poses with a wooden stick at the bustling Pushkar Mela, his twirled mustache and intense gaze reflecting desert pride.

Environmental portraiture can be made from a long distance or from very close. Both have advantages and disadvantages. I personally believe in personal interaction with my subject, so never shoot from a long distance. Every time I shoot a portrait, I try to discuss various things, making him comfortable with me and the camera.

An elderly camel shepherd in a red turban lights a cigarette at Pushkar Mela, his weathered face reflecting a life shaped by the desert.

In 2018, I met this elderly camel shepherd at the Pushkar Mela. The sun was low, bathing the desert in a warm, golden haze. I didn’t raise my camera immediately; instead, I sat with him on the sand, letting the conversation wander through topics as simple as the weather and as personal as his family. He smiled often; his face was deeply lined from years under the desert sun. He told me that, as the eldest of three brothers, he had taken responsibility for supporting the family. But with the price of camels declining every year, continuing this profession had become increasingly difficult for him.

When I finally made the portrait, the camera simply captured what had already been built — a moment of trust, framed by the desert wind, the scent of tea, and the unspoken understanding between two strangers brought together by a story. During my tours, I guide participants on approaching subjects respectfully — often bridging the conversation before the camera comes out.

5. Lowlight shooting opportunity of camel traders’ activity

In my opinion, dawn and dusk offer some of the most magical moments to capture camel herders at work. Before sunrise, when the air turns crisp and cold, the herders gather around small fires, the smell of burning wood mingling with the desert air. Their faces are softly illuminated by the warm glow of the flames, while the surrounding darkness adds drama and mystery.

Three camel shepherds are preparing their food at night during Pushkar Mela.

After sunset, the desert takes on an entirely different character. The sky becomes a canvas of deep oranges and purples, offering the opportunity to frame magnificent silhouettes of camels and traders. With careful composition, you can capture the elegant curve of a camel’s neck or the distinctive posture of a herder against the fading light. These brief windows at dawn and dusk are when the Pushkar Mela feels almost timeless — moments that demand patience, observation, and a readiness to click the shutter at just the right instant.

Men in traditional Rajasthani dress gathered around a bonfire at night, lit by the warm glow of the flames in the Pushkar desert.

A camel herder’s wife crouches by a small bonfire at night, blowing air to stoke the flames for cooking food during the Pushkar Mela.

6. Folk Performances and Traditional Dances

Throughout the fair, performers in dazzling, colourful attire bring the music and dance traditions of Rajasthan to life. The sinuous movements of Kalbeliya dancers, the soulful tunes of folk musicians, and the charm of traditional puppet shows create an atmosphere steeped in heritage. For my participants, I arrange an exclusive Kalbeliya fire dance on the sand dunes at sunset — a truly unique experience that cannot be found elsewhere, where the golden light, swirling skirts, and flickering flames merge into a magical, unforgettable spectacle.

Tribal fire dance during Pushkar Mela.

7. Dust and Backlight Magic

When camel herders guide their animals across the fairgrounds or descend from the surrounding hills, the rising dust catches the sun’s golden backlight, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. This natural haze transforms ordinary scenes into striking silhouettes and glowing outlines, offering photographers a perfect opportunity to capture some of the most unique and evocative images of the Pushkar Mela. From a photographer’s standpoint, timing is everything—position yourself with the sun behind the subjects, expose for the highlights, and wait for the perfect alignment of camel, handler, and dust to craft a frame that feels both cinematic and timeless.

A camel shepherd leads his herd through the golden dust of the Thar Desert during sunset at Pushkar Mela in Rajasthan.

8. The Moustache & Turban Competitions

These quirky, light-hearted events are a visual treat for photographers. Proud bearers of Rajasthan’s grand moustaches and elaborately wrapped turbans gather to compete — each whisker, fold, and vibrant fabric carrying a story of heritage and regional pride.

However, it’s important to note that these competitions are not held at the camel trading grounds. They are organised by the government inside the stadium, in front of thousands of spectators. The atmosphere is lively but also staged, so if you’re comfortable photographing such organised, theatrical moments, it can still be rewarding.

A striking portrait of a camel trader with a thick, curled moustache and a vibrant red-and-black patterned turban at the Pushkar Mela.

An elderly camel trader wearing a bright orange turban and prayer beads stands among his camels at the Pushkar Mela.

Personally, I prefer more natural moustache portraiture of the herders in their authentic environment. When approached respectfully, most herders are delighted to display their magnificent moustaches for your lens — often with a touch of pride and a twinkle in their eyes. These spontaneous encounters can result in portraits that feel more genuine, capturing the person as they are, rather than as part of a performance.

9. Majestic Horses

Pushkar is not only about camels — it’s also a hub for magnificent horses. A significant part of the Mela is the vibrant horse market, where various breeds are bought and sold. Among them, the legendary Marwari breed stands out, instantly recognisable by its elegant inward-curving ears and spirited temperament.

Night Horse Trading under Street Lights – Pushkar Camel Fair, Rajasthan Horse traders gather around a prized Marwari horse under the warm glow of lantern light at night during the Pushkar Camel Fair. The fairgrounds transform after sunset, with negotiations and inspections continuing late into the evening, creating dramatic and atmospheric scenes. The Pushkar Fair, also called the Pushkar Camel Fair or locally Kartik Mela or Pushkar ka Mela is an annual multi-day livestock fair and cultural fête held in the town of Pushkar near Ajmer city in Ajmer district in Rajasthan.

A young horse shepherd is spending some intimate time with his horse during Pushkar Mela, Rajasthan. The Pushkar Fair, also called the Pushkar Camel Fair or locally Kartik Mela or Pushkar ka Mela is an annual multi-day livestock fair and cultural fête held in the town of Pushkar near Ajmer city in Ajmer district in Rajasthan.

Prices here can range from a few lakhs to several crores, reflecting the prestige and lineage of these animals. In 2024, a Marwari stallion named Karmadev made headlines when he received a staggering ₹11 crore bid — which his proud owner turned down. Such stories add to the allure of the fair, where tradition, pride, and passion often outweigh even the most tempting offers.

The horse camps present an exciting opportunity for photographers to capture the power, elegance, and deep bond between horse and handler, set against the vibrant backdrop of the fair. In the early mornings, when the sun’s golden rays filter through rising dust, the entire scene takes on a cinematic quality, perfect for capturing the grace and strength of these majestic creatures.

10. Buffalo at Pushkar Fair

Another unique attraction of the Pushkar Fair is the trading of buffaloes, which has been gaining increasing attention year after year — often commanding remarkably high prices. In 2024, a highly prized buffalo named Anmol was featured with a staggering price tag of ₹23 crore. Generally, Murrah buffaloes — a popular and sought-after breed — are priced between ₹50,000 and ₹1,50,000, depending on factors such as age, weight, and milk production capacity.

A livestock trader washes his prize buffalo early in the morning before showcasing it for sale at the Pushkar Mela in Rajasthan. As water droplets glisten in the sunlight, the decorated animal stands ready for potential buyers at India’s largest livestock fair, which attracts traders from across the region.

I photographed this buffalo, named Kali, in 2014, when her owner was washing her early in the morning before presenting her for sale. In recent years, it has become increasingly difficult to photograph buffaloes in open spaces, as most are now kept inside tents. Still, from a documentary photography perspective, capturing these magnificent animals remains essential to telling the complete story of the fair.

11. Stunning female portraiture

Beyond the camels and vibrant markets, Pushkar offers a chance to capture striking portraits of the camel herders’ daughters and the banjara women, known for their vivid attire and ornate jewellery. A respectful approach is essential—greet them warmly, explain your interest, and seek permission before lifting your camera. In many cases, offering a small payment in exchange for their time and cooperation is both appreciated and fair. While some photographers debate this practice, I believe it’s a form of mutual respect and support. These women, like anyone else, have livelihoods to maintain, and acknowledging their participation in your art can foster goodwill and create more authentic, relaxed portraits for you and your group. Their steady gaze and the intricate detail of their adornments invite the viewer into a moment of quiet connection, where tradition and individuality meet.

A young Rajasthani woman wearing a printed veil and traditional jewelry poses for a portrait at the Pushkar Mela, Rajasthan, India. The annual fair attracts thousands of villagers, traders, and tourists to celebrate culture, livestock trading, and spirituality in a colorful atmosphere.

A striking portrait of a young girl, the daughter of a camel herder, wrapped in a maroon shawl with a traditional gold nose ring, photographed in the early morning light at the Pushkar Camel Fair in Rajasthan, India. Her intense gaze reflects the resilience and quiet strength of nomadic communities that gather here each year.

A young tribal Keady at Pushkar Mela, Rajasthan. Shot during Pushkar Mela, the largest camel fair in Asia. The Pushkar Fair, also called the Pushkar Camel Fair or locally Kartik Mela or Pushkar ka Mela is an annual multi-day livestock fair and cultural fête held in the town of Pushkar near Ajmer city in Ajmer district in Rajasthan.

In 2019, I made this portrait of the young daughter of a camel herder at the Pushkar Mela. Draped in a vivid red veil, she instinctively drew it closer as we spoke, her dark eyes meeting mine with a mix of curiosity and caution. The rope in her hand hinted at her part in the bustling fair, while the intricate henna on her skin spoke of cultural traditions carried with pride. I spent time earning her trust before raising my camera, allowing the moment to hold both her quiet strength and natural reserve. In that instant, the chaos of the fair seemed to dissolve, leaving only the unspoken connection between photographer and subject — a fleeting encounter preserved in light and colour.

12. Camel Water Reservoirs and Reflections

Throughout the Pushkar Mela grounds, the government prepares several water reserves and wells for camels to drink from — some circular, others rectangular in shape. These spots remain lively throughout the day, offering endless photographic opportunities. From the bustling activity of herders and animals to the shimmering reflections in the water, each scene tells a story. With the right light and perspective, these reservoirs can become perfect stages for capturing unique, visually striking images.

At the Pushkar Mela in Rajasthan, India, camel herders gather around a desert well to bathe and water their camels. In the heat of the day, a man pours water over his head while another washes at the well’s edge. Decorated camels stand nearby, waiting for their turn to drink.

Silhouetted against the setting sun, camel herders in traditional white attire bring their camels to a well for drinking water during the Pushkar Mela in Rajasthan, India. The camels, adorned with colorful nose decorations, stand in a desert clearing as golden light spills over the horizon, capturing a timeless desert tradition.

Herders and camels stand along a desert well in the late afternoon light during the Pushkar Mela, their silhouettes and the animals’ reflections mirrored in the water. The warm pre-sunset glow and long shadows create a dramatic, reflective scene that captures the daily rituals and atmosphere of the livestock fair.

13. Domestic Life at Pushkar Camps

Some of the most captivating images emerge when the wives of camel herders prepare food for their families in the quiet warmth of the afternoon. These candid moments often feature Rajasthani women in vibrant-coloured sarees, their arms adorned with multiple bangles and beaded necklaces — symbols of their marital and cultural identity. Behind them, the rugged hills of Rajasthan rise gently against the golden light, with the open desert stretching far beyond the camps. Such photographs offer an intimate glimpse into the daily rhythms of camel-trading families during one of India’s most vibrant and culturally rich fairs.

Wife of a camel herder is preparing food during Pushkar Mela, Rajasthan.

At a temporary camel trading camp during the Pushkar Mela in Rajasthan, India, the wife of a camel trader prepares a fresh spice paste for cooking, using a traditional mortar and pestle. Surrounded by cooking vessels and supplies, she sits under a makeshift tent, her vibrant red headscarf and traditional jewelry reflecting the region’s cultural heritage. The scene captures the essence of daily life at the famous fair, where trade, family, and tradition converge.

However, as a photographer, it is essential to approach respectfully — these traditional Rajasthani women will often cover their faces with a veil, and polite permission is a must before capturing the scene.

14. Camel Dancing and Running

Camel dancing and running are among the most lively spectacles of the Pushkar Mela. Often, potential buyers want to assess the strength, stamina, and agility of a camel before making a purchase. In response, the sellers encourage their animals to run in powerful strides or perform playful “dances,” lifting their heads high and stepping rhythmically in the dust. For photographers, this is a perfect chance to capture dynamic frames filled with motion, energy, and swirling earth—moments that blend the raw power of these animals with the cultural vibrancy of the fair.

A camel shepherd is showing his camel running to the client during Pushkar Mela, Rajasthan. Shot during Pushkar Mela, the largest camel fair in Asia. The Pushkar Fair, also called the Pushkar Camel Fair or locally Kartik Mela or Pushkar ka Mela is an annual multi-day livestock fair and cultural fête held in the town of Pushkar near Ajmer city in Ajmer district in Rajasthan.

At the Pushkar Mela in Rajasthan, India, a camel herder demonstrates the strength and fitness of his camel to potential buyers. The camel stands elevated for inspection as the warm evening light casts a golden glow over the desert fairground, with other herders and camels in the background

Position yourself low for dramatic angles, and use a fast shutter to freeze those fleeting gestures that tell the camel’s story.

15. The Final Silhouettes

Just when you think you’ve photographed everything and it’s time to pack up, the Pushkar Mela offers one last gift—the chance to capture magnificent silhouettes. This fleeting moment arrives during the narrow window when the setting sun paints the sky in deep reds and oranges. Positioning the camels in clean, well-defined alignments against this fiery backdrop can create images that feel both dramatic and serene. Patience is key—wait for the right combination of sky colour, camel movement, and spacing to produce frames that stand as timeless closing notes to your day’s work.

A camel shepherd is with his camel during Pushkar Mela, Rajasthan. The Pushkar Fair, also called the Pushkar Camel Fair or locally Kartik Mela or Pushkar ka Mela is an annual multi-day livestock fair and cultural fête held in the town of Pushkar near Ajmer city in Ajmer district in Rajasthan.

At Pushkar Mela in Rajasthan, a camel and its owner share a moment of quiet connection under the night sky. The camel’s head leans affectionately toward the man, whose traditional attire catches a warm red glow from nearby lights. Both figures appear in silhouette against deep purples and blues, with faint fairground lights twinkling in the distance. The scene captures not only the deep bond between herder and animal but also the festival’s vibrant yet intimate atmosphere.

Bonus Experience: The Unscripted Moments

What I love about Pushkar is that no matter how much you plan, the best shots are often the unplanned moments—an old man offering tea, a young girl balancing on a rope, a sudden dust storm framing a caravan of camels.
This is why on our Pushkar Photo Tour, I emphasise not just set shots, but cultivating an eye for the spontaneous and unexpected.

Interested in joining a guided photography experience at the Pushkar Camel Fair?
Check out our exclusive Pushkar Photo Tour on EXPOSURE for an immersive, hands-on experience tailored for photographers:
👉 Explore the Pushkar Photo Tour here.