Wine shops and alcohol in Pushkar

JakobJ

New Member
Hi

I was just going through some posts and found that being a holy city, alcohol consumption is forbidden in Pushkar. Is that true? Is it forbidden for Hindu's only or nobody is allowed to consume alcohol in Pushkar?

Is there any wine shop available in or around Pushkar, I was wondering if alcohol is forbidden, then what other options are available there?

Jakob
 
Pushkar is an ancient holy place for Hindus and there are no wine shops and no restaurants serve non veg food either. If you want alcohol while you are at Pushkar then go to Ajmer which is about 20 mins drive where you can also get non veg food in restaurants.
 
There is one shop where you can get alkohol in Pushkar but the choice is very limited so most people drive to Ajmer to get their alkohol/alcohol. Contrary to popular belief the hotels there have no problem with guests drinking in their rooms and you can even ask if they would allow you to have your own drinks in the restaurant.
 
It is a religious place and for serving alcohol you need a bar license which the government wont provide near locations of religious gatherings and importance. Wine shop is a bit further away from the temples and sarowar.
 
I have been past Pushkar a couple of times, but never actually been there, from what I know there is nothing really special to see there, why do people even go there?
 
There is nothing to see in Pushkar really, even I don't know why people go there, but if you do happen to go to Pushkar there is a restaurant right opposite the saraovar which serves some of the most amazing food and it is a great place to go relax and enjoy good food. You would find a lot of foreigners there as well. Sorry I can not remember the name of the restaurant!
 
Hello and welcome to the forum!

I was just going through some posts and found that being a holy city, alcohol consumption is forbidden in Pushkar. Is that true?

Yes, alcohol isn't legal to drink in Pushkar. The local government forbids drinking alcohol within the city limits.

Is it forbidden for Hindu's only or nobody is allowed to consume alcohol in Pushkar?

Well, generally, it's for everybody. However, it's not unusual for some hotels and shops to sell alcohol, discreetly of course. So as you can see, it's not as strictly enforced in the city.

Is there any wine shop available in or around Pushkar, I was wondering if alcohol is forbidden, then what other options are available there?

As I've said, some shops and restaurants still sell alcohol or alcoholic drinks. There's the Hard Rock in the Main Market Road in Pushkar. You can actually buy alcoholic drinks and other types of drinks in here. It's more of a bar/restaurant with loud music playing.

Then another one is R.R. Hotel and Bar in Ganahera in Pushkar. You can find it near the Petrol Pump. It's mainly a hotel but it also has its own bar which serves alcoholic drinks. They have many brands of beers and alcohols you can choose from and they're relatively cheaper. You can also buy non-vegetarian dishes here.

Otherwise, many hotels do offer wines and champagnes on their menu. You can opt for that as well.

I hope this helps!
 

Alcohol and Wine Shops in Pushkar – What You Need to Know in 2025​

Pushkar, one of Rajasthan’s most sacred towns, has long been known for its spiritual and cultural significance. The town attracts thousands of visitors every year, drawn by its stunning temples, vibrant markets, and the famous Pushkar Camel Fair. However, when it comes to alcohol, Pushkar follows strict regulations that every traveler should be aware of.

Is Alcohol Available in Pushkar?

Officially, Pushkar is a dry town, meaning the sale and consumption of alcohol within city limits is prohibited by law. This rule has been reinforced in recent years, with stricter fines and penalties for those caught selling or consuming alcohol in public. Restaurants, cafes, and hotels within Pushkar are not legally allowed to serve liquor.

That being said, some visitors have reported that a few discreet places may offer alcohol unofficially. However, this is not recommended, as these businesses operate outside legal regulations, and purchasing alcohol within Pushkar could lead to trouble with local authorities.

Where Can You Buy Alcohol Near Pushkar?

For those who wish to enjoy a drink legally, the best option is to head to Ajmer, which is just a 20-minute drive from Pushkar. Ajmer has several government-licensed wine and liquor shops where you can purchase alcohol without any restrictions. Many tourists visiting Pushkar choose to stay in Ajmer and make day trips to Pushkar, especially if they prefer access to alcohol and non-vegetarian food, both of which are restricted in Pushkar.

Tips for Travelers Visiting Pushkar

  • Respect Local Culture: Since Pushkar is one of India’s holiest towns, avoiding alcohol within city limits is a sign of respect for local traditions.
  • Avoid Unofficial Sources: If someone offers you alcohol within Pushkar, remember that it is illegal, and you could face fines or legal issues.
  • Plan Your Stay Accordingly: If having a drink is important to your trip, consider staying in Ajmer and traveling to Pushkar for sightseeing during the day.
Pushkar is best enjoyed for what it is—a spiritual and cultural gem that offers unique experiences like the mesmerizing evening Aarti at Pushkar Lake, camel rides in the desert, and exploring colorful bazaars filled with handicrafts and souvenirs. Whether or not you drink, the beauty of Pushkar lies in its peaceful vibe and rich heritage, making it a must-visit destination in Rajasthan.
 
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