Rajasthan, India
Airtel, Jio, and Vodafone Idea (Vi) are major mobile network operators. Jio and Airtel generally offer the best coverage and data speeds in Rajasthan. Consider an Airalo eSIM for easy activation.
Hindi is the national language, widely spoken. Marwari, a Rajasthani dialect, is common locally. English is understood in tourist-facing businesses.
Basic Hindi phrases for daily interactions.
Simple yes, no, and apology phrases.
For airport lounge access worldwide, Priority Pass is available.
Cultural sensitivity leads to respectful and meaningful interactions in Pushkar, a town deeply rooted in spiritual traditions.
The common greeting is "Namaste" with palms together. Modest clothing for women (shoulders and knees covered) is appropriate, especially at religious sites.
Remove shoes before entering temples, homes, and often the ghats of Pushkar Lake. A head covering for women in temples shows respect.
Always eat, give, and receive items with your right hand. The left hand is traditionally considered unclean.
Always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially women and children. Respect "No Photography" signs inside temples. Be sensitive when photographing rituals.
Always eat with your right hand. Avoid wasting food. Tipping is appreciated but not always mandatory. Refer to Section 2.3 for specific guidelines.
Bargaining is customary in markets; negotiate respectfully for a fair price. Avoid public displays of affection. For security, use ATMs attached to bank branches during business hours.
Pushkar's infrastructure, while charming, presents challenges for travelers with mobility needs.
Pushkar's infrastructure is generally not designed with accessibility in mind. Streets in the old town are narrow, uneven, cobbled, and can be very crowded.
Specialized services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited in Pushkar. Traveling with a companion is highly recommended for assistance.
Some newer hotels or resorts might feature ramps and accessible rooms. Direct access to some historical sites will remain limited.
Private taxis with drivers are the most adaptable transportation option for navigating the town and reaching specific points.
Pushkar's charm lies in its traditional setup, which does pose challenges for accessibility. Prior planning and direct communication with service providers can mitigate some difficulties.
Pushkar can cater to various budgets, from backpacker-friendly to luxury experiences.
Maximize walking within Pushkar. Use local buses for travel to Ajmer and shared auto-rickshaws for short distances to save money.
Enjoy a mix of local eateries and mid-range rooftop cafes. Use private auto-rickshaws for convenience within Pushkar and to Ajmer.
Indulge in fine dining at your hotel's restaurants or explore upscale vegetarian restaurants in the area. Arrange private chef experiences.
Travel during the shoulder season (September or April) for better prices on accommodation and fewer crowds. Always negotiate prices for souvenirs and local transport.
