The Gayatri Mata Temple Pushkar, also known as Pap Mochani, is a small hilltop temple offering great views over Pushkar and can be reached within 20 minutes from the ghat.
Are you chasing a sunrise or sunset viewpoint, or simply just a great view of Pushkar that’s within walking distance of the lake? The Gayatri Mata Temple is one of Pushkar’s best viewpoint hills and is unfortunately often overshadowed by the more popular Savitri Temple.
However, in this guide, I’ll hope to convince you to give the markets a rest and take the short 20-minute hike up to the Gayatri Mata temple as I did. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with excellent views over Pushkar, the ghat, and the surrounding desert landscape!
Where is the Gayatri Mata Temple in Pushkar?
The Gayatri Mata temple trail is located behind the Marwar Bus Stand, just 10 minutes from Pushkar Lake. You'll likely see the small hill resting just behind Pushkar directly to the north.
Unfortunately, Google Maps can be a little confusing at first, since there is actually an incorrect pin when searching "Gayatri Mata Temple". Instead, search "Gayatri Mata Pap Mochani" to give the correct location. I've pinned the correct spot on the map below.
From the lake, walk north towards the bus stop and continue around it, just near One Light Hostel, where the road forks. Take the right fork and continue on this road until you see the dirt track leading up the hill.
Location: FHW3+GMH, Pushkar, Rajasthan 305022, India
The Gayatri Mata Temple Hike
Well, it's not really much of a hike. From the base, it took us about 10 minutes, if that, to reach the temple atop the hill. The path is just a worn track on the hillside with a few sections of steps which is very easy to follow.
While not as steep or high as the more popular, Savitri Temple, you'll actually get a closer view of Pushkar from the top.
About the Temple
The Gayatri Mata temple is another devotion to Lord Brahma's wife Savitri. This temple is honestly not very impressive, especially considering the incredible religious structures in Pushkar.
However, the bright pink coloring does indeed make it a unique temple, especially due to the strange contrast with the dry Pushkar landscape.
I have been told that the Hindu priests are only at the temple just after sunrise and before sunset. Unfortunately, there was nobody at the temple when I visited.
As a result, I wasn't able to ask about the temple's second name; Pap Mochani. There's also very little information online, so if you find out or know the significance, let me know!
Pushkar Views from the Hill
From the top, you'll get panoramic views over Pushkar, with clear views of the lake and ghats, as well as the mountains and valleys in the distance.
The view from Gayatri Mata Temple (Pap Mochani) is in my opinion, better than the view from the opposite Savitri Temple. This is especially true for sunrise hikes as the sun rises behind the hill, lighting up the lake and city beautifully.
Where to Stay in Pushkar
There are so many accommodation options to choose from in PushkarI but I highly recommend finding a place that is near to the lake. This means you'll be within walking distance of all the top attractions.
- Where I stayed: Madpackers Pushkar - This hostel made my entire visit to Pushkar and the vibe fits the destination perfectly. It was rated India's best hostel in the world a few years back by Hostelworld for its vibe, three terraces, a rooftop chilling area, and a yoga/camping terrace.
- Terraced Hotel near the lake: Inn Seventh Heaven - an amazing hotel with stunning views of the desert oasis.
- Best-value private room: Cooking Art & Homestay - the top-rated homestay in Pushkar with amazing hosts who will treat you to an authentic Pushkar experience!
FAQs
What is the best time to visit the Gayatri Mata Temple?
The best times to visit are during sunrise or sunset, offering stunning views and cooler temperatures. These times provide ideal lighting for photography and a serene atmosphere. We visited in the daytime and it was a little bit hot, and Haylea needed to cover up due to it being a temple.
Are there any cultural etiquette guidelines to follow?
Dress modestly to show respect at the temple, and remember to remove your shoes before entering. If priests or locals are present, be mindful of photography and ask for permission if necessary. You can take good photos outside the temple with no problems.
What amenities are available nearby?
The nearest restrooms are located at the Marwar Bus Stand. You’ll also find several food stalls and small shops near the bus stand for refreshments before or after your hike.
Planning more adventures and things to do in Pushkar? Check out some of my other guides and articles in the list below!
- Epic 1-month India Itinerary - the ultimate India travel itinerary covering the best places to go and things to see.
- Taj Mahal View Locations - best spots to see & photograph the Taj Mahal.
- Things to do in Rishikesh - explore the adventure & yoga capital of India in this travel guide.
- Training & HMI Darjeeling - my experience completing my Basic Mountaineering Course in Darjeeling.
- India Packing List - everything you need to bring on a trip to India (and what you should leave at home)
