🇮🇳 Ajmer, Rajasthan – Destination Guide

Overview:
Ajmer is a spiritual and culturally rich city in Rajasthan, nestled in the Aravalli Hills. It is home to the Ajmer Sharif Dargah of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti — one of the most revered Sufi shrines in India — and serves as a harmonious blend of Islamic heritage, Hindu traditions, and Rajput history. It’s also the gateway to Pushkar, just 15 km away.

🕌 Top Attractions in Ajmer

🕋 Ajmer Sharif Dargah

The mausoleum of Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, visited by millions of devotees annually, regardless of faith. The energy, qawwalis, and spiritual vibe are unforgettable.

🌊 Ana Sagar Lake

A scenic artificial lake offering boating, lovely sunset views, and Marble Baradari pavilions built by the Mughals. Great for a peaceful stroll.

🏯 Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra

A 12th-century Indo-Islamic structure originally a Sanskrit college, later converted into a mosque. Its detailed stone carvings and arches are architecturally unique.

🛕 Nasiyan Jain Temple (Soniji Ki Nasiyan)

Known for its gold-plated wooden interiors depicting Jain mythology. Often referred to as the “Golden Temple of Ajmer.”

⛩️ Taragarh Fort

Overlooking Ajmer, this ancient hilltop fort offers panoramic views of the city and was a military outpost of the Chauhan dynasty.

🛣️ How to Reach

• By Air: Nearest airport is Kishangarh (30 km) or Jaipur Airport (135 km)

• By Train: Ajmer Junction is well-connected to Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur & Ahmedabad

• By Road: Ajmer is easily accessible via NH-48 and is a major stop on Golden Triangle extensions

🌤️ Best Time to Visit

• October to March – Pleasant weather for sightseeing

• Urs Festival (Rabi al-Thani month) – A massive gathering at Ajmer Sharif

• Avoid peak summer (April–June)

🏨 Where to Stay

• 🌟 Luxury: Bravia Hotel, The Royal Melange

• 🛌 Mid-Range: Hotel Embassy, Lake Vinora

• 💸 Budget: Ajmer Inn, Guest houses near Dargah Bazaar

🍛 What to Eat

• Kadhi Kachori and Sohan Halwa – Popular street snacks

• Mutton Pulao & Kebabs near the Dargah (only outside Pushkar limits)

• Sweet shops for Ghevar and Rabri

• Try Rajasthani thalis or Mughlai fare in the old city

🛍️ Shopping in Ajmer

• Dargah Bazaar – Perfumes, chadars, and traditional clothing

• Mahila Mandi & Naya Bazaar – Handicrafts, mojaris, bangles

• Silver jewelry, ittar (perfume), and embroidered fabrics are famous

🧭 Nearby Places to Visit

• Pushkar – 15 km (Brahma Temple, Pushkar Lake, Camel Fair)

• Kishangarh – 30 km (Miniature paintings, marble art, Phool Mahal Palace)

• Beawar & Roopangarh – Small towns with forts and local color

🙏 Things to Know

• Wear modest clothing when visiting religious sites

• Photography is prohibited inside the Dargah's main sanctum

• Ajmer is more liberal than Pushkar — non-veg food and alcohol are allowed

• Streets around the Dargah are congested; walking or auto-rickshaws recommended

🎯 Ideal For

• Spiritual seekers and pilgrims

• History and architecture lovers

• Food enthusiasts and street shoppers

• Weekend travelers from Jaipur or Delhi