Gayatri Mata Temple Pushkar (Pap Mochani) – View point on the hill
Gayatri Mata Temple Pushkar, also known as Pap Mochani, is a small hilltop temple that offers great views of Pushkar and can be reached within 20 minutes from the ghat. Are you looking for a sunrise or sunset viewpoint or just a great view of Pushkar within walking distance from the lake? The Gayatri Mata Temple is one of Pushkar's best viewing points and is unfortunately often overshadowed by the more famous Savitri Temple. However, in this guide, I hope to convince you to give the markets a break and take the short 20-minute hike to Gayatri Mata Temple...
Gayatri Mata Temple Pushkar (Pap Mochani) – View point on the hill
Gayatri Mata Temple Pushkar, also known as Pap Mochani, is a small hilltop temple that offers great views of Pushkar and can be reached within 20 minutes from the ghat.
Are you looking for a sunrise or sunset viewpoint or just a great view of Pushkar within walking distance from the lake? The Gayatri Mata Temple is one of Pushkar's best viewing points and is unfortunately often overshadowed by the more famous Savitri Temple.
However, in this guide I hope to convince you to give the markets a break and take the short 20-minute hike 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?
Gayatri Mata Temple Trail is located behind Marwar Bus Stand, just 10 minutes from Pushkar Lake. You will probably see the small hill just behind Pushkar just to the north.
Unfortunately, Google Maps can be a bit confusing at first as searching for “Gayatri Mata Temple” actually shows an incorrect pin. Instead, search for “Gayatri Mata Pap Mochani” to provide the correct location. I have marked the correct location on the map below.
From the lake, go north to the bus stop and walk around it, right near the One Light Hostel where the road forks. Take the right fork and continue on this road until you see the dirt road leading up the hill.
Hike to Gayatri Mata Temple
Well, it's not really much of a hike. From the base, it may take you 10 minutes to reach the hilltop temple. The trail is just a worn path on the hillside with some stepped sections that is very easy to follow.
Although not as steep or high as the more popular Savitri Temple, you get a closer view of Pushkar from the top.
alt=“GAYATRI MATA TEMPLE TREK IN PUSHKAR”>
Other viewpoints of Pushkar Temple:Savitri Temple Pushkar – Hike to the viewpoint
About the temple
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 light pink coloring actually makes it a unique temple, especially due to the strange contrast with the arid landscape of Pushkar.
I was told that the Hindu priests are only at the temple shortly after sunrise and before sunset. Unfortunately, there was no one in the temple when I visited. As a result, I could not ask about the second name of the temple; Pap Mochani. There is also very little information online, so if you find out or know the meaning, let me know!
alt=“GAYATRI MATA TEMPLE PAP MOCHANI PUSHKAR”>
Pushkar views
From the top you get a panoramic view of Pushkar with clear views of the lake and ghats as well as the mountains and valleys in the distance.
In my opinion, the view from Gayatri Mata Temple (Pap Mochani) is better than the view from Savitri Temple opposite. This is especially true for sunrise hikes, when the sun rises behind the hill and beautifully illuminates the lake and city.
alt=“PUSHKAR VIEWPOINT FROM PAP MOCHANI TEMPLE”>
alt=“PUSHKAR VIEWPOINT FROM PAP MOCHANI TEMPLE”>
RELATED: 4 BEST SUNSET PLACES IN PUSHKAR
Where to Stay in Pushkar – Accommodation Guide
With so many accommodation options in Pushkar, I can understand the frustration when booking. When choosing, I recommend finding a place that is close to the lake. This is because most of the activities in Pushkar are within walking distance of the lake. Since accommodation in Pushkar is plentiful and cheap, there's really little reason not to book a bed close to the action.
Where I stayed: Madpackers Pushkar This hostel made up my entire visit to Pushkar and the atmosphere fits the destination perfectly. It was named India's Best Hostel in 2019 by Hostelworld for its atmosphere, three terraces, a rooftop chill area and a yoga/camping terrace. To make things even better, dorm rooms cost around $6 per night. This is a no-brainer for me and one that I have no problem recommending.
Best Value Private Room: Varah Square Guest HouseOne of the few accommodation options in Pushkar without negative reviews. Close to the ghat with rooftop views of Pushkar and surrounding mountains. Budget rooms only cost around $5, while you can get a deluxe room with a view for $2 extra.
More Pushkar travel guide
Planning more adventures and things to do in Pushkar? After adding Gayatri Mata Temple to your Pushkar itinerary, check out some of my other guides and articles in the list below.
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alt=“GAYATRI MATA TEMPLE PUSHKAR (PAP MOCHANI) – HILL VIEWPOINT”>
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