Welcome to the magical world in rural Rajasthan where the Nagaur Cattle Fair turns dusty grounds into a burst of colours and traditions. It's not just a gathering—it's a celebration of life, culture, and the special bond between people and animals. With the sun painting the sky and folk music in the air, the fair is buzzing with activity. Cattle markets showcase the vibrant life of the region, creating a joyful chaos that tells a story of community, heritage, and the enduring spirit of Rajasthan.
Get ready for a virtual journey that feels like magic, where every moment is filled with the special charm of Nagaur. Keep reading to know more.
Date & Venue of Nagaur Cattle Fair 2024
Nagaur Cattle fair takes place in Rajasthan in the month of January or february every year.The dates for Nagaur Cattle Fair 2024 are not confirmed yet.
Best Time to Visit Nagaur Cattle Fair 2024
More than a fair, it seems to be like a cultural event that takes place annually for locals and tourists alike. Every year, the fair takes place between January and February for a period of (approx) 4-10 days. It is the best time to visit this place to enjoy how traders earnestly haggle over prices when trading animals, witness the cultural extravaganza, and admire the visual treat in the form of thousands of beautifully decorated animals, ready to be bought or sold.
History of Nagaur Festival
Nagaur is a beautiful, ancient town located close to Bikaner and Jodhpur. The town lis located close to ancient trading routes. The land here is largely infertile due to proximity to the famous Thar Desert, hence people are dependent on livestock for their livelihood. Buying and selling of cattle is quite common in Nagaur but it took the form of Nagaur Cattle fair approximately 56 years ago when the Sufi Saint Ramdeoji was invited by the King Umed Singh to demonstrate his powers. Locals gathered to watch him and after witnessing his powers, they insisted the saint stay back in Nagaur. The Fair also started at the same time and as in most fairs in Rajasthan, the trading of cattle also began in earnest in Nagaur Cattle Fair.
Major Attractions Of Nagaur Cattle Fair 2024
Nagaur Cattle Fair is renowned for the trading of excellent breeds of camels, buffaloes, cows, goats, etc. Here, we bring you some major highlights of this fair.
- The Negotiations - Every day of the fair begins with sellers and traders showing off their decorated cattle to each other and deciding a mutual agreeable price. The buyers walk from one shed to another to choose the best out of the lot. As the sun sets, the cultural programs begin in which locals and tourists take part with great enthusiasm.
- Cultural Programs and Folk Music - These cultural programs in the Nagaur Cattle Fair include bullock races, cockfights, tug-of-war and musical performances by local folk artists, and much more.
- Mirchi Bazaar - This is perhaps one of the most significant attractions of the Cattle Fair. Considered as the largest chilli market in all of Asia, it attracts a lot of tourists as well as locals from all across the world and India, especially during the ongoing days of the cattle fair.
- Animal Decorations and Contests - With the onset of the cattle fair, one can witness a variety of animal decoration contests, turban tying contests, gymnastic hunts as well as handicraft exhibitions on the fairground. You can shop for items like leather accessories, wooden items, iron-crafts, and several other things as souvenirs.
Places to Visit When Attending Nagaur Cattle Fair
- Nagaur Fort - Nagaur Fort is a magnificent fort, holding its ancient charm. The fort shows the vestiges of ancient wars fought on this historical land. Its architectural style is very different from other forts in Rajasthan. It is built on plains and fortified with tall bastions. Nagvansh are believed to have built this fort in the 4th Century. There are a lot of palaces in the fort known for its unique intricate carvings. The marvellous beauty of the palace is worth exploring.
- Tarkeen Dargah - It is one of the most famous mosques in the area. It is located within the premises of Nagaur Fort. This highly revered Dargah was built in the memory of Khwaja Hamiduddin Nagauri. It is a place worth exploring and visiting.
- Amar Singh’s Cenotaph - This cenotaph was built in the honour of famous Rajput folk Idol, Amar Singh Ji. Its major attraction is its lovely, yellow-coloured sandstone exterior that shines when sun rays fall on it. Beautifully-carved, intricate floral designs look stunning. There are several other monuments close to the cenotaph that were built in memory of his loving queens.
- Jain Glass Temple - It is a stunningly beautiful temple, known for its mesmerising glass statue within the temple premises. Its incredible architectural style will leave you spellbound with its sheer beauty. Ancient Jain Holy scriptures can be seen here. The temple has amazing statues of Jain tirthankaras.
- Akbari Mahal - This beautiful palace was built in 1556 in the memory of the event of Mughals reconquering Nagaur City from the Governor of Ajmer. The palace displays an eclectic blend of Rajputi and Mughal architectural styles. Embellished mirror and glass work in the palace add to its beauty and magnificence.
- Deepak Mahal - The famous Deepak Mahal is also located within the Nagaur Fort premises and looks awe-inspiring in its subtle beauty. Its ornamented walls and unique flower-patterned designs make it look stunning. When visiting Nagaur, make it a point to visit this ancient palace and admire its beauty.
How To Reach
Here is how you can consider travelling to Jodhpur.
- Nearest Metropolitan City. Delhi
- Nearest Airport from Nagaur. Jodhpur Airport
- Nearest Railway Station. Jodhpur Junction
- Distance from Jodhpur. 130 km
- Distance from Delhi. 436.8 km
By Air
Deboard at the Jodhpur Airport (JDH) situated 130 km away from Nagaur. The airport is fairly well-connected with other Indian cities via direct and connecting flights. From the airport, you can consider booking a taxi to reach your destination.
- Distance from Jodhpur Airport (JDH). 130 km
By Train
Deboard at Jodhpur Junction (JU) situated 130 km away. The railway station connects Jodhpur with other Indian cities and towns via trains running at a good frequency. From the station, you can easily take a cab or some other means of transportation.
- Distance from Jodhpur Junction. 130 km
By Road
Jodhpur is well-connected with other Indian cities by roadways and national highways. For travelling to Jodhpur via road, you can easily book state-run/private buses or book a taxi. Otherwise, you can also take your own vehicle to reach here.
- Distance from Bikaner. 122 km via Bikaner-Barmer Road
- Distance from Jaipur. 234.7 km via RJ SH 2
- Distance from Kota. 357 km via Ajmer-Kota Road
- Distance from Ahmedabad. 585 km via NH62
You can plan your trip and create your own route to the city with Adotrip’s technically driven circuit planner. Click here.
Conclusion
Wrap up your Nagaur Cattle Fair adventure with a fond goodbye to the lively cultural extravaganza. The blog has journeyed through vibrant cattle markets, exciting competitions, and the soulful spirit of Rajasthan. As the fair's echoes fade, anticipate the next enchanting rendezvous. Until then, let Nagaur's charm linger in your heart, and stay tuned for more tales from the heart of rural Rajasthan.
Frequently Asked Questions Related to Nagaur Cattle Fair
Q1. When is the Nagaur Cattle Fair held?
A1. The Nagaur Cattle Fair is typically held in the month of January or February. The exact dates may vary each year, so it is advisable to check the specific schedule for the current year.
Q2. Where is the Nagaur Cattle Fair located?
A2. The Nagaur Cattle Fair takes place in Nagaur, a city located in the state of Rajasthan, India. The fair is held in and around the Nagaur Cattle Market, which is one of the largest livestock markets in the country.
Q3. What is the significance of the Nagaur Cattle Fair?
A3. The Nagaur Cattle Fair is renowned for being one of the largest and most vibrant livestock fairs in Rajasthan. It serves as a crucial trading hub for cattle, particularly for the local farmers and traders who come to buy and sell various breeds of livestock, including cows, camels, horses, and more.
Q4. What can visitors expect to see at the Nagaur Cattle Fair?
A4. Visitors to the Nagaur Cattle Fair can witness a mesmerising display of Rajasthan's rural traditions, vibrant cultural performances, and a bustling marketplace filled with livestock. The fair also features exciting events such as camel races, tug-of-war competitions, and traditional music and dance performances, offering a unique and immersive experience for attendees.
Q5. Are there any other attractions or activities at the Nagaur Cattle Fair?
A5. In addition to the livestock trading and cultural festivities, the Nagaur Cattle Fair also offers visitors a chance to explore local handicrafts, traditional Rajasthani cuisine, and a variety of amusement rides and games. It is an opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich cultural heritage and rural lifestyle of Rajasthan while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the fair.