Pushkar Fair, Rajasthan, India

Every autumn, the desert town of Pushkar in Rajasthan, India, comes alive with one of the world's most unique celebrations: the Pushkar Camel Fair. It coincides with the Hindu lunar month of Kartik and is usually celebrated between late October and early November. This year, the festivities run until November 5, marking the region's most anticipated season.

What started as one of the largest camel and cattle markets on the planet has transformed into a vibrant cultural festival. In addition to trade, visitors enjoy such picturesque contests as breaking clay pots (matka phod), the longest mustache, and bridal parades. The fair starts with a camel race and continues with music, dances, and shows. The stalls overflow with textiles, bracelets, and colorful clothing, while livestock exhibitions and parades keep its traditional spirit alive. In recent years, curious activities have even been added, such as a football match between the local club and foreign tourists.