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 for excellent views over Pushkar, the ghat, and the surrounding desert landscape.
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Where is 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.
The Gayatri Mata Temple Hike
Well, it’s not really much of a hike. From the base it might take you 10 minutes, if that, to reach the temple atop the hill. The path is just a worn track in 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.
More Pushkar Temple Viewpoints: Savitri Temple Pushkar – Viewpoint Hike
About the Temple
The Gayatri Mata temple is another devotion to the 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 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.
RELATED: 4 BEST SUNSET SPOTS IN PUSHKAR
Where to Stay in Pushkar – Accommodation Guide
With so many accommodation options to choose from in Pushkar, I can understand the frustration when trying to book. When choosing, I recommend finding a place that is near to the lake. This is because most of the things to do in Pushkar are within walking distance of the lake. Since accommodation is plentiful and cheap in Pushkar, there really is little reason not to book a bed near the action.
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 2019 by Hostelworld for its vibe, three terraces, a rooftop chilling area, and a yoga/camping terrace. To make things even better, dorms are around $6 a night. This one is a no-brainer for me and one that I have no problem in recommending.
Best-value private room: Varah Square Guest House
One of the only accommodation options in Pushkar without a negative review. Close to the ghat with rooftop views of Pushkar and the surrounding mountains. Budget rooms are only around $5, while you can get a deluxe room with a view for an extra $2.
More Pushkar Travel Guides
Planning more adventures and things to do in Pushkar? After adding the Gayatri Mata Temple to your Pushkar itinerary, check out some of my other guides and articles in the list below.
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