An Indian Fair

The largest livestock fair in the world becomes an opportunity to attempt a half-marathon, do some shopping and travel in a hot air balloon… and hunt for a mysterious treasure

Duration: 2 days for the Pushkar Mela and another day to visit the area

Itinerary: from Jaipur to Pushkar, stopping in Ajmer and back to Jaipur, about 320 kilometres

Equipment: plenty of space for souvenirs – or for the hidden treasure of Taragarh Fort!

Party, party like a party animal, one might say. You are in Jaipur, a beautiful, monumental city and the capital of Rajasthan, in northern India. Ride your Vespa for about three hours until you get to the charming town of Pushkar. Be sure to do so during the Pushkar Mela, also called Pushkar Camel Fair, held every autumn in the Thar desert. It's the world's largest livestock fair, which kicks off a week of intense celebrations.

The fair is rooted in local culture, according to which all 330 gods and goddesses of Hinduism gathered by the Pushkar Lake on the day of Purnima – the night of the full moon – to consecrate it. To this day, the lake is still considered sacred and thousands of pilgrims come from all over India to take a dip in its waters, known to for its magical healing attributes. For accommodation, try the Pushkar Glamping Experience and sleep in the luxury camping site directly linked to the event. Or alternatively, use your trusty Vespa and opt for the economical option in the town of Pushkar, ten kilometres from the centre of the fair. In any case, it is essential to book well in advance.

There are many activities during this week-long celebration: you can fly over the area aboard a hot air balloon, participate in songs and dances during the religious celebrations, or shop at the local craft stalls. All the while, of course, taking colourful photographs of pilgrims in their traditional costumes. Sports enthusiasts can also take part in the Harmony Half Marathon: a half marathon that begins at Dargah Ajmer Sharif and finishes at Pushkar Stadium Ground, open to anyone who wishes to enrol.

The Pushkar Mela will keep you busy for two or three days, but the journey to discover the area requires a few additional stops. Wake up early, warm up the engine of your Vespa and head towards the Savitri Temple. Located at the top of the Ratnagiri hills, it is a very charming temple. Park at the foot of the hill and proceed with the cable railway, and within six minutes you will be met with a breathtaking view – a perfect way to start the day.

Return to the valley and set off towards the Anasagar Lake, where you can stop and have lunch enjoying the picturesque atmosphere of the city of Ajmer. Try, for example, the Ambrosia Restaurant, a pretty rooftop terrace where you can sample Malay Chicken Tikka and other local specialties. Head across the Lake and aim for the Taragarh Fort - also called Star Fort – an ancient structure that dates back to the founding of the Kingdom, in 1354, and a charming example of Rajpu architecture. If you are lucky and look well, you might find a hidden treasure - according to legend - in the underground tunnels connecting the Fort to the adjoining building.

The treasure in question is that of the ruling dynasty. In the past, even the kings themselves could only see it once in a lifetime, and only after being crowned. Its custody, shrouded in mystery and total secrecy, was entrusted for centuries to loyal followers of a Pathan family. Unfortunately, the last descendant of that family died during World War II, before he could pass on to the new sovereign the secret location where the treasure was hidden. Finding it would be a perfect way to end your journey, before heading back to Jaipur.