Ajmer

Ajmer is one of the principal cities of Rajasthan. Earlier ruled by Prithiviraj Chauhan, Ajmer is an important pilgrimage destination of the Indian subcontinent. Ajmer is home to the most religiously significant landmarks, the tomb of Moin-ud-din Chishti. There are several other tourist landmarks as well in this city. Over the years, Ajmer has become a popular tourist destination of Rajasthan. Tourists from different parts of India and various parts of the world while on a vacation to Rajasthan make tours to Ajmer.

Ajmer is located on the banks of River Banas and Luna. While on one side the magnificent Aravalli mountain range border the city of Ajmer, on the other side Ana Sagar Lake adds to the city's beauty. Ajmer was founded by the Rajput leader Ajaipal Chauhan. The great Rajput leader, Prithviraj Chauhan has also ruled Ajmer. From the middle of the 15th century, Ajmer was under the rule of the Mughals. During this time, Ajmer was a principal military base.

History: The history of Ajmer dates back to centuries. The city was established in the seventh century, by Ajayraj Singh Chauhan, who built the Taragarh Fort, India’s very first hill fort. His descendants ruled the city till the twelfth century. The ruins of this fort are still visible from the Ana Sagar Lake. The city served as a strategic location on the trade route between Delhi and the coast of Gujarat. The last Hindu ruler of Ajmer was Prithviraj Chauhan, who was defeated by Mohammad Ghori in the twelfth century. He is still respected by the people of Rajasthan for his chivalry, intelligence and valour. His life and his battles are documented in an epic poem titled ‘Prithviraj Raso’. The Delhi Sultanate ruled the region till 1326. For the next few centuries, Ajmer suffered from several battles between various clans. In 1559, the city was conquered by Mughal emperor Akbar, who restored the city to its glorious status. During his rule, the city became an important centre. Akbar was a devout follower of Moinuddin Chishti and he built his own palace in Ajmer, named Daulat Khana. After the decline of the Mughal Empire, the control of Ajmer was passed into the hands of the Marathas, after which the British took control of the city. It remained a province of India till 1950 and became a part of the Rajasthan state on November 1st, 1956.

Tourist Attraction: A popular pilgrimage destination of Rajasthan, Ajmer is known for the shrine of the great Sufi Sain Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti. The city is surrounded with low-lying Aravali Mountain Range and is located in Rajasthan state of India. The Dargah Sharif has a domed tome of the saint and consists of many white buildings. Akbari Mosque and the huge gate are amongst the most prominent structures inside it. The gate was donated by the Nizam of Hyderabad, whereas the Akbari Mosque was built by the famous Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. After the divine visit in the shrine, prepare for a beautiful time around Foy Sagar Lake or Ana Sagar Lake.

Dargah Sharif: Arguably the most famous pilgrimage center in Rajasthan, Dargah Sharif is the resting place of Khwaja Moin-Ud-Din Chisti. He was a Sufi saint who dedicated his entire life in the service of the poor and the downtrodden. The place is regarded one of the most holy places in Islam. The site is considered one of the most sacred pilgrim sites by people of all religions. The shrine is visited by millions of pilgrims every year. The Dargah was made in different stages and it houses the original tomb of the saint in a silver railing.

According to the legend, Khwaja came to India from Persia. For a small span of time, he stayed in Lahore and then finally settled in Ajmer. He prayed to the Allah for the well being of poor. It is believed that Khwaja locked himself in a room for six long days before his death. He left his mortal body in solitude. Since then, the shrine has been turned into a popular religious place. It is believed that every wish made from pure heart at the Dargah is fulfilled.

Dargah Sharif was built by the Mughals, which makes it feature splendid Mughal architecture. Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Chishty Dargah has various buildings, tombs, courtyards and Daalaans. Some of such structures include Buland darwaza, Nizam gate, Degs, Begami Daalaan, Dargah Shrine, MehfilKhana, Aulia Masjid, Jama Masjid, Langar Khana, Victoria Hauz and more. The Mughal tone given to the shrine truly makes it a masterpiece. In the inner courtyard of the shrine, there are two huge cauldrons with a capacity of 2240 kg and 4480 kg. These cauldrons are used for cooking kheer during special occasions.

The best time to visit the shrine is from the month of October to March. It is the time when the famous Urs Fair is organized. During this fair, the Dargah is decorated beautifully. Ajmer Sharif Dargah is popular amidst devo Khwaja Ajmeri Saint Moinuddin Chishty, tees and travelers with different names, such as Khwaja Saheb, Khawaja Gharib Nawaz, Khwaja Gharib Nawaz Ajmeri, Khwaja Baba, Khwaja Sahib and Sultan-Ul-Hind.

Jama Al Tamish Ajmer: Ajmer boasts a variety of tourist attractions. Each of those tourist spots offer something distinct so that you enjoy every bit of your Ajmer tour. However, Ajmer tour is not all about fun and frolic. It also has a religious aspect attached to it. This is a result of the number of religious places in Ajmer. Among the various religious places, the Jama Al Tamish occupies a special place. A huge number of tourists visit the place to make wishes. The best part of the particular religious place is that it attracts tourists from various religions. In spite of being a Muslim pilgrimage place, a number of Hindus also visit the place.

History of Jama Al Tamish Ajmer: Also known as Dhai Din-Ka-Jhompra, it is one of the oldest historical monuments in Ajmer. Witnessing the building only is great experience as you get to see the best of Indo-Islamic architecture. The visit to the mosque looks even more interesting as there is some confusion regarding the history of the Jama Al Tamish Ajmer. According to the history, the mosque was previously a Sarasawati temple and was built in 1153 A.D. However, inscriptions on the walls of the monument say that it was built by Muhammad Ghori in the year 595 A.D. It is also believed that Hazrat Khwaja Muinuddin Chishti himself has offered prayer here. As said earlier that there are lot of historical belief attached to the particular religious structure. It is also believed that the colossal structure was built by Sultan Shamsuddin Altamish of Delhi and was finally completed by Ali Ahmed mason. Hence, it would be a great experience for tourists to visit the beautiful Jama Al Tamish Ajmer.

Unique appeal of Jam Ak Tamish Ajmer: The particular religious place offers great attraction for tourists. The fact that it is visited by people irrespective of their religion increases the count of tourists visiting the place. Hence, apart from attracting the huge number of devotees, Jama Al Tamish Ajmer is also renowned as a tourist spot for visitors. If you planning for a Rajasthan tour make sure you visit Jama Al Tamish Ajmer or else you will visit something unique.

Adhai - Din Ka- Jhonpra: Adhai-Din Ka-Jhonpra, Ajmer as the name suggests was constructed in two and half days. It is a relic of an old mosque. On a quadrangle base, the ancient mosque has a front screen wall with pointed arches. Its beautifully carved pillars, arched screen and ruined minarets make it one of the masterpieces of ancient architecture.

In the 12th century this monument prior to being a mosque was a flourishing Sanskrit college, a great seat of learning. Legend has it that a Muslim king, Mohammad Ghori, destroyed it to construct a mosque in its place. As it was a hurried construction, many remains of nearby temples were used for building the monument. It is said that at least 30 pillars must have been used from other temples to build the elegant piece of architecture.

The arched walls of the mosque have inscriptions with Islamic calligraphy, however most of them are in ruins. Kufi and Jughra inscriptions from the Holy Koran have been extensively used on the archways. Adhai-Din Ka-Jhonpra is supported by 124 pillars all uniquely carved portraying Hindu and Jain architecture, while the monument is crowned with 10 splendorous domes.

This ancient piece of architecture would take you down the lanes of history steeped in mystic charm of the old royal days of the Muslim period. It is an important part of sight seeing in Ajmer.

Akbar's Palace: There are a huge number of Forts and Palaces in Ajmer, which are Akbar Fort, Taragarh Fort, Mansingh Palace, Bijay Niwas Palace and much more. But among all these forts and palaces one of the most famous palace is Akbar's Palace. Akbar's Palace, Ajmer is one of the most beautiful monuments in the city and shows the brilliant work of art and skill that has been used to construct this palace.

Akbar's Palace, Ajmer was built in 1570 A.D. by the great emperor named Akbar. Akbar's Palace in Ajmer in India was built to serve as a home to Akbar during his visits and pilgrimages to Ajmer. Akbar's Palace was made almost impregnable and unattackable by the two impressive stone walls that surrounded the palace. Akbar's Palace, Rajasthan holds an important position in the history of Ajmer as it had acted as the platform for the historic meeting between Emperor Jehangir and Sir Thomas Roe of British East India Company. During the British occupation in Ajmer, Akbar's Palace was converted into a munitions house. The palace was then renamed as the 'Rajputana Arsenal'. A portion of Akbar's Palace was converted and changed into a museum in 1908. There is beautiful massive black marble idol of Goddess Kali in the palace. There are brilliant military armor and weapons on display at the palace turned museum. Akbar's Palace, Ajmer is a masterpiece work. The rooms in the palace are beautifully decorated. The palace is situated quite close to the railway station in Ajmer. The palace is a grand and elaborate way to learn more and gain knowledge about the romantic yet tumultuous and disruptive history of the picturesque city of Ajmer. The palace possesses an awesome collection of some of the most beautiful stone sculptures. The palace also displays the ancient and medieval armory and weapons. There are various other artistic objects in the palace and not to forget the eye catching and delicate miniature paintings that are really beautiful. Akbar's Palace also displays the best and choicest collection of Mughal and Rajput armor.

Ana Sagar Lake: Founded by the grandfather of Prithivi Raj Chauhan, King Anaji Chauhan between 1135 -1150 AD, Ana Sagar Lake is an artificial lake. It is one of Ajmer’s most popular lakes and one of India’s largest lakes. Named after its founder, the lake was founded during the 12th century, after a dam was built across Luni River. Ana Sagar Lake is surrounded by Daulat Bagh Gardens and Khobra Behroon temple, two popular attractions of Ajmer. The best time to visit Ana Sagar Lake is between October and March when the climate is pleasant and the water level is full. The lake dries up in the summer season. Ana Sagar lake is around 13 km from the main city of Ajmer. You can also spot an island in the middle of the lake. Indulge in water scooter ride or boating here.

Taragarh Fort: The Taragarh Fort, Ajmer was built in 1354 A.D. The Taragarh Fort, Rajasthan is a spectacular and outstanding example of Rajasthani architecture. During the Mughal rule in Ajmer, the Taragarh Fort, Ajmer was used as an important center of military activity. After this in the later years, during the British occupation in Ajmer, the fort was used as a sanatorium.

The Taragarh Fort in Ajmer has six huge gates. The Miran Saheb ki Dargha is located inside the fort. Miran Saheb, a brave warrior and also the governor of the fort sacrificed his life defending and protecting Taragarh against an enemy invasion. The Taragarh Fort, Ajmer provides the visitors with an excellent and panoramic view of the city. Something to look out for is the Bhim Burj, a huge battlement on which there rests a large canon and also the massive stone water reservoirs built within the Fort. The main and front gateway that leads the visitors to the fort is decorated and embellished with stone sculptures of elephants.

Pushkar Lake: The Pushkar Lake is surrounded by 52 flights of steps, called ghats, many having special legendary importance. Lord Vishnu is said to have appeared at the Varah Ghat in the form of a boar. Brahma took a bath here and performed Yajna at the Brahma Ghat, Accompanied by Vishnu and Mahadev. Guru Govind Singh chose this site for reciting the sacred Guru Granth Sahib. The ashes of Mahatma Gandhi were immersed at the Ghandhi Ghat, which was previously called Gau Ghat.

The Holy dips (Snan) People consider the water of the Pushkar Lake to be very sacred and the ritual of taking dips in the holy water is believed to bestow salvation. The holy dip is most auspicious on Kartik Poornima. Even before sunrise, people descend the ghats, aided by the pandas (Brahmin priests) to take the sacred bath. Offerings of coconut, flowers and cash are made to the lake & the priests. After bathing at the lake, people proceed to pay homage to the creator of the Universe, Lord Brahma at the Brahma Temple.

Floating Lamps (Deepdan): It is customary to float lighted earthen lamps after placing them on pattals (plates made of leaves) on the waters of the lake. This creates a spectacular view in the evening when the sacred lake takes on a mystical tint sprinkled with twinkling spot of light. Aarti is offered at the Lake in the morning and evening.



Mayo College: lord Mayo, the Viceroy of India, in a Darbar held in 1870 A.D. at Ajmer, which was attended by several ruling princess of States of Rajputana, placed before them a proposal to set up an institution at Ajmer for the education of princess and sons of nobility.

Its foundation stone was laid in 1878 A.D. and its building, constructed in white marble in Indo Saracenic style, was inaugurated by the Maruis of Dufferin, in 1885 A.D. Sometimes known as the Eton of India, the institution had the distinction of enrolling several ruling princes, not only from Rajputana States, But from outside as well. It is now open to all sections of society and is still one of the best schools in the country.

The Circuit House: The former British Residency, overlooking the artificial lake Ana Sagar, has now been converted into the Circuit House. The Ana Sagar Lake and the cenotaph and the shrine of Hindu reformer Swami Dayanand, founder of the Arya Samaj movement in India, can be viewed from here.

Nasiyan Jain Temple: Truly one of the best Jain temples in Rajasthan, Nasiyan Jain temple is a prime Digambar Jain sacred site in Ajmer. Also known as Soni Ji Ki Nasiyan, this temple boasts of an amazing elegant-feel in its architecture. This temple is a man-made gem, the perfect example of traditional Jain-style architecture, a real treat to the eyes of the devotees and the tourists. Dedicated to Lord Adinath, the first Tirthankara of Jainism, this temple is made-up of red sandstone. Stones and precious metals have also been used extensively. Nasiyan temple is not only a popular religious spot but is also a famous tourist attraction of Ajmer.

History: The construction of the temple was an endeavor of wealthy Jain merchants who wanted to build an architectural marvel in Jain temples. Starting in the year 1864, the construction took 31 years to get completed. In 1895, Jain temple was opened for general public.

Chief Attractions: Popular for its structure, the temple a huge red sandstone entrance, similar to Mughal architecture. While the exteriors are simple, the interiors are the exact opposite- all decorated with gemstones and precious metals. The main structure is separated into 2 areas because of the varied nature of the purposes. While the first area is the place of worship with the idol of Lord Adinath, the second one is a museum, housing amazing things relating to Jainism and its teachings. There is also a huge hall, called Swarna Nagri, which is decked-up with gold and other metals. It comprises of gold-coated wooden objects, festooned with silver, gold as well as gemstones. Here, one can also spot mini models of different Jain temples of India, artifacts related to Jain mythology, and holy places of the country including Prayag and Ayodhya.

The ceiling of the temple’s inner chamber is ornamented with silver balls. Mineral-colored paintings and Belgium stained-glass make the hall look extremely luxurious. This temple is also known as the ‘Golden Temple’, because of an extensive use of gold, precious stones and other precious metals. The temple complex also consists of the museum. The complex of the temple also has fortification all around, a typical feature seen in Jain temples.

Nasiyan temple is an excellent example of the ever-so-stunning Jain temples. It is a must-visit sacred site in Ajmer. The artistic work and bejeweled interior of the temple are sights to behold.

Brahma Temple: Though he may have no other temple sacred to his memory, Brahma seems to have take full advantage of the only one where prayers are offered to him. Not only did he perform a Yagya or ritual fire ceremony here, he also dropped a lotus form his hands to crated the lake where people bathe before offering him prayers. A silver turtle at the entrance of the marble temple is a symbol of his means of transport. Pushkar is best known for its Brahma Temple, though it is by no means the only temple here, with as many as found hundred temples lining the banks of the lake. Spires form a skyline that, when the Vesper bells rings, are worthy of the kingdom of heaven itself. Though it visited throughout the year, Pushkar in November, during the time of its annual fair, is a colourful mass of people & celebrations coinciding with the largest camel fair held in the world.

Government Museum: situated in the heart of the old city and close to the railway station the museum is housed in the beautiful fort and palace built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1570.

It was here that the British envoy Sir Thomas Roe met Emperor Jahangir in 1616. what is today commonly known as Magazine is the palace quarters where the emperors lived. After British occupation in 1818 and during the first war of Independence in 1857 it was used as the Rajputana Arsenal by the British which gave the name magazine. One of the most attractive propositions of the city of Ajmer that narrates the rich history of the place and preserves it with utmost care is the Ajmer Government Museum, Ajmer. The museum is among the most frequently visited Museums in Ajmer and is an essential part of the Tours to Ajmer. The Ajmer Government Museum is located in the famous Lohagarh Fort. The museum is at times is also called as Bharatpur Museum is home to a rich collection of archaeological artifacts from the nearby old Bharatpur state.

There are many section of the museum which showcases various specimens of work that includes a rare collection of miniature paintings. The Art Gallery of the museum is the place to enjoy the paintings on leaves of the Peepal trees, mica and old litho papers. This section of the museum also features the finest paintings of the Maharajas of Bharatpur. Some of the sections in various locations of the museum also contain different guns used by the rulers of Rajasthan along with the miniature canons which dates back to 18th century and are called 'Chaddra'. The miniature canons were believed to have used by Maharaja Sawai Jawahar Singh in the battle while passing through the Jaipur territory which are in two sets of eleven each.

The sections in the museum are categorized as Archaeology, Armory, Arts, Crafts and Industry, Children Gallery and the miscellaneous section. The museum ahs served as a great preserver for the loads of unique objects of antiquarian interest and were laying uncared scattered all over Rajasthan. Ajmer Government Museum in Ajmer India was started in the year of 1908 as an endeavor put in Government of India. The museum was significantly named Rajputan Museum and is home to some of the important exhibits from almost all the princely States of Rajasthan. The visitors can also enjoy the rare books at the library attached to the museum. A trip to the museum will take the visitors close to some of the rarest exhibits of Adhai-din-ka-Jhonpara along with the artifacts from Gupta to the late medieval period.

Baghera: Baghera is situated in the Kekri sub-division of Ajmer District. It is about 107 kms. South-east of Ajmer. The village is known for its treasuretove of archaeological and antiquarian relics. It’s old name was Vyagreraka as has been recorded in the Bijolia rock inscription during the reign of the Chauhan Emperor, Someswara, dated v.s. 1226. Baghera attracted the attention of archaeologist A.C.L. Carllyle who examined its relics in 1871-72. Baghera is well known for its archaeological sites. The most renowned of them all is the temple of Varaha Avtar (incarnation of Lord Vishnu in the form of a boar). It is presently enshrined in a comparatively modern building on the southern side of a big sacred tank known as Varaha Sagar. On the western side of the Varaha Sagar are the ruins of an ancient temple dating back to 10th-11th century A.D. There is also a magnificent Torana close to the outer wall the Garh (residence) of the Thakur of Baghera. Naginabagh offers a rare sight of low lying mounds having traces of ancient buildings buried underneath. On the outskirts of Baghera there is a rocky area named Mataji Dungar. Here one can behold a mystifying sight of Jain images jutting out of land. These images mark the site of a famous Jain temple referred to in the inscriptions of the medieval period.

Taragarh: Taragarh, is picturesque place situated in the Aravallis, the oldest mountain range of the world. Taragarh is 3281 feet above sea level and has the potential of attaining the status of a hill resort, next only to Mount Abu. Captain Tod built the fort of Taragarh which is about 70 kms from Beawar. It is 120 kms. South of Ajmer, and only 13 kms. from Bhim on National Highway No. 8. Its original name is Boraswara. In early times, nomadic tribes like the Banjaras and Gurjars inhabited this area. Taragarh formed a part of Merwara.


Kishangarh: Kishangarh was the capital of the erstwhile princely State of the same name and was founded in 1611 A.D. by Kishan Singh, as son of the Rathore dynasty of Jodhpur. One of his successors, Raja Sawant Singh, who not only was an accomplished poet, writing under the nom-de-plume of Nagari Das, but also was a painter of high order. His masterpiece Bani Thani (a bewitching lady personifying everything beautiful in womanhood) immortalized him and gave a new theme and direction to the Kishangarh School of painting. In recent years the town has become a trade centre for various varieties of marble and papier mache products.

Roopangarh Fort: Built in AD 1648 and called after himself, the town and Fort of Roopangarh was constructed by Maharaja Roop Singh of Kishangarh State between the mid – 17th to 18th centuries. This is called the ‘Golden Period’ of Kishangarh Art and Culture, and saw to the flourishing of the world famous school of Miniature Paintings.

Originally a nine turreted Fort, Roopangarh Fort has been built over and added on by several generations and the different styles can still be seen in the structure. Now beautifully restored and renovated into a hotel, it is the first ‘War-Fort’ to have been done so. The nineteen large rooms are individually and tastefully decorated, keeping in mind the history and heritage surrounding it.

Subash Bagh and Daulat Bagh: The splendor of the city of Ajmer attracts thousands from all over the world. The city has earned fame in the tourism map of the country for the famous Dargah Sharif, Ajmer and many other religious shrines. The city plays host to more than a million pilgrims every year and is a major pilgrimage for Islam. Another facet of the city that has been drawing lot of travelers to the city as well is the Lakes and Gardens in Ajmer. The city is adorned by many lakes and gardens that have accentuated the beauty of the place for centuries and the Subash Bagh and Daulat Bagh, Ajmer is one of them. The garden was built by Shah Jahan on the Eastern banks of the Anna Sagar Lake.

Amidst the buildings and the various constructions of the city the Subash Bagh and Daulat Bagh provides the sheer relief to the locals and the visitors with its greenery. The garden is adorned by a beautiful "Baradari" and the numerous trees. The garden was named as Daulat Bagh by Shah Jahan which has recently been changed to Subhas Bagh by the authority. The beautiful garden built by Shah Jahan is punctuated by the beautiful white marbles lying on the eastern banks of the Anna Sagar Lake. The garden shines like a jewel in the throne of Ajmer which attracts many tourists. The Subash Bagh and Daulat Bagh in Ajmer in India is a must visit for the tourists while on a Tour to Ajmer.

Shopping: The leather work of Rajasthan is interestingly a joint effort of the local men and women. While the men do the tanning, cutting and stitching, the women do embroidery and ornamentation.

In Ajmer, you will find numerous items that are truly Rajasthani and reflect an ancient tradition. Silver and gold ornaments, jewellery, tie-and-dye sarees and embroidered Jodhpuri shoes are some of this city’s specialities. During the annual Urs fair, folk artisans display their ware and offer a tempting range of intriguing and colourful items. Prominent shopping centres include Madar Gate, Station Road, Purani Mandi, Naya Bazar, Kaisarganj, Nala Bazar etc.

How To Reach:  Ajmer is a city that is easily accessed by rail, road and air. Let's have a detailed look at the various advantageous factors:

By Air- Ajmer also boasts a great connectivity through air. The nearest airport is only 135 kilometers away from the city.


By Train- Ajmer is easily accessed by train. The main line passes through the city. The main line connects the city to Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Mumbai and Ahmedabad. Most of the trains stop at Ajmer station. In fact, you can board the super fast train Shatabdi Express from Delhi to Ajmer.


By Road- Ajmer is well connected by roads to a number of major cities. Reaching Ajmer from Delhi will take 9 hours. Moreover, it is also well connected to a number of other cities like Aligarh, Agra, Jaipur, Bikaner, Bharatpur, Barmer, Jodhour, Aligarh, Mount Abu, Jaisalmer etc. A number of buses and taxis ply on this route to connect the city with the various cities. The city bus service, operating between Ajmer and Pushkar is one of the most popular modes of transport. Other popular modes of transport are tongas, cycle-rickshaws, auto rickshaws are other popular modes of transport.