Ajmer, July 20 -- The renowned Pushkar Fair, known for its unique blend of religion, culture and tourism, is set to introduce several new attractions this year, including a long-distance equestrian competition called Endurance Ride, to regain the interest of domestic and international tourists. After witnessing a steady decline in foreign tourist arrivals following the COVID-19 pandemic, the Pushkar Fair administration is focusing on innovative competitions and cultural events to revive its global appeal. According to official figures, the fair attracted around 430,000 domestic and 11,750 foreign tourists in 2016. In 2017, domestic visitors numbered around 400,000, while foreign tourists dropped to 9,000. The figures improved in 2018, with 415,000 domestic and 12,800 foreign visitors, followed by nearly 500,000 domestic and 13,000 international tourists in 2019. No tourism competitions were organised during 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although domestic footfall recovered to around 515,000 in 2022, foreign tourist numbers fell sharply to about 4,300. The number of international visitors remained low in 2024 and stood at around 3,100 in 2025, prompting authorities to introduce fresh attractions. One of the biggest highlights this year will be the Endurance Riding Competition, being organised for the first time. A 60-kilometre track is being developed in the foothills of the Aravalli range, divided into three loops of 20 kilometres each. After every loop, veterinary experts will examine the horse's heart rate, hydration level and overall fitness, while the rider's stamina will also be assessed. Any horse declared medically unfit will be withdrawn from the competition. Additional Director of the Animal Husbandry Department, Dr Naveen Parihar, said the endurance ride will test the coordination, fitness and endurance of both horse and rider. Dr Parihar also announced that, in line with the United Nations' declaration of 2026 as the International Year of Women Farmers, the Pushkar Fair will organise a Bullock Cart Parade featuring women farmers to honour and encourage their contribution to agriculture. Another new attraction will be the Rewal Gait Competition, showcasing the distinctive speed, elegance and endurance of the famous Marwari horse over a one-kilometre course. The competition emphasises smooth performance without causing fatigue to either the horse or the rider. The Pushkar Fair is broadly divided into three parts. The first is the traditional livestock fair, where thousands of camels, horses and cattle are bought and sold. The second comprises tourism department events featuring cultural competitions and interactive activities for Indian and foreign visitors, giving them a close experience of Rajasthan's rich folk traditions and lifestyle. The final phase is the religious fair, held from Kartik Ekadashi to Kartik Purnima, when lakhs of devotees take a holy dip in the Pushkar Lake....