Dedicated to Varaha, Lord Vishnu’s incarnation in the form of a wild boar, Varaha Temple is one of this city’s most famous pilgrimage spots. The temple houses a vast white idol of Lord Varaha. Besides this idol, there are many sculptures, carvings, gold-styled pillars depicting Garuda, the mythical bird, and life-size statues of doorkeepers in the temple. Thousands of devotees visit this temple yearly, offering prayer and getting blessings. After your temple tour, you will get an insight into the ancient Hindu scriptures of Vishnu Purana and Dashavatara Katha.
Mythology Connection of Varaha Temple, Pushkar
According to the legend, Lord Vishnu took an avatar of half boar-half man while coming to the earth to slay the demon -Hiranyaksha, who threatened to destroy all life. Lord Vishnu had also killed his elder brother, Hiranyakashyap. This is why Lord Vishnu is called the Preserver in Hindu mythology. He took on many avatars to slay demons and kill all evil to preserve peace on earth. It is believed that he took 9 such avatars, one of which is Varaha. The temple is dedicated to honor the same avatar of Lord Vishnu.
History of Vraha Temple
The Varaha Temple, Pushkar, was built in the 12th century by King Anaji Chauhan. It is believed that the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb destroyed a significant part of the temple. The temple was renovated by Raja Sawai Jai Singh II of Jaipur in the 18th century. After that, many kings and business people contributed to improving the structure of this temple. Today, it has become the center of attention for tourists and offers them great insight into the culture and tradition.
Architecture of Varaha Temple
The incredible design of this temple reflects the typical Marwadi-Rajasthani style that has stoned walls guarding it. You will notice that numerous pilasters, getaways, hanging eves, and chhatris make the wall of this temple delightful. In the center of the temple, you will see 2 feet idol of Lord Varaha, which is placed in the decorated sanctum. Moreover, the Parikrama path that connects the temple to the Pushkar Lake ghats is the highlight of this architecture.
Varaha Temple, Pushkar Timings
Opening Timing
- 6:00 am – 12:00 pm
- 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Closed Timing
- 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Attractions of Varaha Temple
Pushkar is home to various ancient temples associated with legends and mentioned in Hindu scriptures. Varaha temple is also one of them that has great significance from a spiritual and historical point of view. The connection of mythology, rich history, and intricate design are prime attractions for this temple that attract tourists worldwide.
Best Time to Visit Varaha Temple
October to March is the ideal time to visit Varaha temple and the peak time. During these months, dry and cold wind will make your sightseeing tour more pleasant and comfortable. However, the temple remains open throughout the year and welcomes tourists. Another reason to visit here in between this month is that according to the Hindu calendar, these are the months of Kartika when the Pushkar Camel Fair takes place in this city. So, you can also attend that grand festival. Make sure to visit early in the morning or evening to attend the Aarti ceremony in the Varaha Temple.
How to reach Varaha Temple
The distance between Pushkar Bus Stand and Varaha temple is hardly 1 km, and you can walk for 15 minutes. Pushkar is a small city, so you will catch any transport mode from any corner to reach this temple. Tuk-tuk and auto rickshaws are two ideal choices for you.
