Ajmer is one of the most and oldest cities within the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is located in the middle of Rajasthan and is home to the Ajmer Sharif shrine. The city was established as "Ajaymeru" ("Invincible Hills") by a Chahamana ruler, either Ajayaraja I or Ajayaraja II and served as their capital until the 12th century CE. Ajmer has been selected together of the heritage cities for the HRIDAY and Smart City Mission schemes of the govt of India.
Ajmer features a hot, semi-arid climate with over 55cm of rain per annum, but most of the rain occurs within the monsoon months, between June and September. Temperatures remain relatively high throughout the year, with the summer months of April to early July having a mean daily temperature of about 30°C (86°F).
During the monsoon, there's frequent heavy rain and thunderstorms, but flooding isn't a standard occurrence. The winter months of November to February are mild and temperate with average temperatures starting from 15⁰C - 18°C (59⁰F - 64°F) with little or no humidity.
There are many places to go to in Ajmer:-
1. Ajmer Sharif Dargah
Ajmer Sharif Dargah also referred to as Ajmer Dargah, is that the tomb of Moinuddin Chishti is one among the holiest places of worship in India not just for Muslims but followers of every faith. Being the ultimate resting place of the Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chisti, it's had a huge contribution in spreading the moral and spiritual values of Islam amongst the masses.
Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chisti was a superb Sufi Saint and dedicated his entire life to the upliftment of the poor and downtrodden. The shrine is visited by many people per annum because it is taken into account very sacred by people of all religions.
Ajmer Sharif was built by the Mughal Emperor Humayun, hence justifying the rich Mughal Architecture. The Dargah has various constituents like tombs, courtyards, and Daalaans.
The major among these structures are - Nizam Gate, Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid, Aulia Masjid, Dargah Shrine, Mehfilkhana, and a few dozen other prominent establishments. One can spot two huge cauldrons within the inner courtyard of the shrine.
These containers have a capacity of 2240 kg and 4480 kg and are used during special occasions to cook sweet delicacies like Kheer. It is one of the places to visit in Ajmer.
2. Ana Sagar Lake
The gorgeous Ana Sagar Lake may be a magnificent reservoir that's located within the city of Ajmer. This lake is best visited during the sunsets when the views are extraordinarily marvelous to seem at. The sight of the lake from the nearby temple is especially enchanting. Do not forget to require a camera to capture the superb and heavenly views that you simply behold here.
An island is often spotted within the center of the lake. Tourists like to enjoy boating or motorboat rides here. The lake is about 4.4m deep and spreads over a neighborhood of 12km. It was built by Arnoraja (alias Ana), the grandfather of Prithviraj Chauhan, in 1135 -1150 AD and is known as after him.
The catchments were built with the assistance of the local populace. It is one of the places to visit in Ajmer.
3. Adhai Din ka Jhonpra
Adhai Din ka Jhopara could also be a Masjid built by Qutub-ud-Din-Aibak, the first Sultan of Delhi in AD 1199. Rumor has it that this Indo-Islamic architectural site was constructed in two and a half days and that is where it gets its name. Adhai Din ka Jhopra may be a relic of an old mosque that was constructed with remains of Hindu and Jain temples.
Though most of the traditional temple is in ruins today, the world of the mosque remains used as an area of worship. Complete with arched screens, ruined minarets, and distinct beautiful pillars it's a tremendous place to go.
It is one of the oldest mosques in India, and thus the oldest surviving monument in Ajmer. After the independence of India, the structure was turned over to the Jaipur circle of ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) and is today visited by people of all religions, as a fine example of a mixture of Indian, Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim, and Jain architectures. It is one of the places to visit in Ajmer.
4. Akbar's Palace and Museum
Akbar's palace, constructed in 1570 AD because of the place where he and his troops stayed at Ajmer whenever he visited the Ajmer Sharif Dargah. It is documented for the museum which portrays the age-old military weapons and exquisite sculptures, paintings, and other artifacts of the Mughal era. The museum showcases various aspects of the Rajput and Mughal kind of living and fighting.
The large black marble statue of Goddess Kali situated within the palace is sort of famous. Here you'll see the simplest samples of Mughal and Rajput weapons on display. This palace isn't very big but is robust enough to face up to all enemy efforts and attacks.
Akbar's Palace may be a masterpiece in itself. This palace is the right way to gain some knowledge about the culture of that era. The Palace Museum not only boasts of a grand collection of weapons and armors but also has a number of the foremost exclusive stone sculptures for visitors to return and admire. It is one of the places to visit in Ajmer.
5. Nareli Jain Temple
Nareli Jain Temple, located about 7 km distant from Ajmer, maybe a gorgeous marble temple with angular and strikingly appealing designs. The temple is situated on the ranges of the Aravali Mountains.
This Temple may be a striking facade mixing traditional and contemporary architectural styles with 24 miniature temples (Chaubisi) lined abreast of the hill above. It was built by members of the RK Marbles family. The temple is a crucial Jain pilgrimage site for Digambar Jains. It is one of the places to visit in Ajmer.
6. Clock Tower
The tower at Ajmer was constructed in 1887 to mark Queen Victoria's jubilee which is why it's also referred to as Victoria Jubilee tower. This landmark within the city, situated opposite the Ajmer railroad station, is made within the Indo-Islamic style. It is one of the places to visit in Ajmer.
7. Durga Bagh Gardens
Durga Bagh could also be an enthralling garden on the banks of the majestic Ana Sagar Lake. The garden was built by Maharaja Shiv Dan in 1868 AD. This place is an ideal picnic spot. Many beautifully bloomed flowers and tall trees make the breeze calm and funky. From the garden, Ana Sagar Lake is often viewed where tourists take a ride on boats.
The place is additionally visited by many families who wish to enjoy a family picnic with their loved ones and friends. The beauty of the place was once destroyed by the British, by building concrete structures here. But the Indian Government restored its glory by demolishing those structures. The entry to the garden was free and welcomed by all. It is one of the places to visit in Ajmer.
8. Kishangarh City
Known as the marble city of India, Kishangarh city may be a tourist spot in itself. Kishangarh is 30 km from Ajmer. The city is famous for its art and culture, and the Kishangarh Fort.
It is the sole place within the world with a temple of nine planets. It has a heritage lake named Gondola Lake. Kishangarh Nepheline Syenite, located about 500 m after the bypass bifurcation of Kishangarh towards Jaipur on NH-8, has been notified together of the National Geographical Monument of India.
Kishangarh has quite 1,000 gangsaws, 5,000 edge cutting machines, around 25,000 godowns, and quite 25,000 marble traders and it gives employment to around 1 lac people. The widest range of Indian, Italian, and Makrana marble is on display during this area. It also features a flourishing marketplace for the power-loom and ball mills sector. It is one of the places to visit in Ajmer.
9. Ajmer Jain Temple
Ajmer Jain Temple or Soniji Ki Nasiyan may be a Digambar Jain temple dedicated to Lord Rishabhdev (Agnidev), the first of the 24 Tirthankara of Jainism. The temple is formed of red sandstone which is why it is also called the Red Temple.
The main attraction of the temple is that the main chamber, referred to as the Swarna Nagari "City of Gold", has several gold-plated wooden figures, depicting several figures within Jainism. The city of Ayodhya has been carved out of wood and plated with 1000 kg of gold within most chambers.
The intricacy is remarkable. Only Jains are allowed within the main temple or the Lal Mandir/Red Temple and perform their rituals. It is one of the places to visit in Ajmer.
10. Abdulla Khan's Tomb
Abdulla Khan's Tomb could also be a splendid memoir constructed by the son of Abdulla Khan, Hussain Ali Khan, who was the minister of king Farrukhsiyar. This simple yet elegant tomb is one of the main attractions of Ajmer thanks to its historic importance and architectural beauty. Opposite to the present is the tomb of Abdulla Khan's wife.
The monument was built during the late Mughal period. The place is quite peaceful. Abdullah Khan's Tomb was made in the 1700's AD. The tomb is found on a raised platform with four steps. It is one of the places to visit in Ajmer.
11. Shopping in Ajmer
The local road markets are popular among tourists because people get to shop for traditional stuff which reflects the sweetness and culture of Rajasthan. The Mahila Mandi, because the name suggests, is supposed for the ladies and is legendary for traditional Odni's, saris, and fancy lehengas. It is one of the places to visit in Ajmer.
12. Urs Festival
The famous Ajmer Sharif shrine in Rajasthan witnesses an annual Urs celebration on the death anniversary of the Sufi saint, Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, popularly referred to as Khwaja Gharib Nawaz, the founder of the Chishti Sufi order within the Indian Subcontinent.
The Khwaja Gharib Nawaz Dargah, located in Ajmer, fills with the fragrance of incense and sights of devotees paying reference to the saint’s grave by offering ceremonial chadars over it.
The Candles are lit, prayers are made, and qawwalis are performed all night as parts of the six-day-long Urs festival. Celebrated in Rajab, the seventh month of the Islamic calendar, the Urs festival may be a major occasion for devotees to try and do Ziyarat of the sacred shrine. It is one of the places to visit in Ajmer.
13. Roopangarh Fort
A palace and former fortress within the town of Roopangarh, Roopangarh Fort maybe a grand monument that has now been converted into a vibrant Heritage Hotel. The Fort was inbuilt within the year 1648 by Maharaja Roop Singh of Kishangarh.
The twenty large rooms of this beautifully renovated and restored fort are decorated to make a royal ambiance alongside all modern amenities. You may go and luxuriate in a royal occupied fort-turned hotel within the land of kings. Roopangarh Fort is originally a huge war fort, built over 350 years ago.
Roopangarh Fort is additionally a perfect place for those that love history and seek a story from the silent walls of the fort. Dining and facilities the restaurant at hotel Roopangarh Fort serves fresh organic food, in imaginative menus inspired by family recipes. At the restaurant, meals are available a la carte on a set menu buffet basis.
Other facilities and services offered by the hotel include doctor on call, laundry service, telephone, library, tennis, croquet, indoor games, transport service, and conference facility. Heritage walks, camel/horse safari, sightseeing trips, and gala evenings are also organized by the hotel. It is one of the places to visit in Ajmer.
14. Prithviraj Smarak
Located on the Taragarh Road in Ajmer, Prithviraj Smarak may be a memorial dedicated to the fearless Rajput King- Prithviraj Chauhan. A small area with an enormous statue of Prithviraj mounted on a black horse has been marked to pay homage to the great warrior.
Besides, the Smarak is perched atop a hill and it offers panoramic views of the town below. Smarak is additionally famous as a war memorial of Prithviraj Chauhan. It is one of the places to visit in Ajmer.
15. Akbari Masjid
Akbari Mosque is situated between Shahjahani Gate and Buland Darwaza on the Ander Kote Road, Ajmer. Made in red sandstone, the shrine is decorated with white and green marbles. Four tall minarets flank the doorway and accentuate the sweetness of the mosque.
As of now, the mosque also houses a Quranic institution to supply Islamic education to the youngsters. This shrine was constructed by Emperor Akbar when his prayers seeking an heir to his throne were answered at the Dargah Sharif. It is one of the places to visit in Ajmer.
16. Foy Sagar Lake
Built in 1892 as a part of a famine relief project by English architect Mr. Foy. Lake Foy Sagar is a man-made lake situated on the Foy Sagar Garden Road in Ajmer. The capacity of the lake is 15 million cubic feet and covers a neighborhood of 14,000,000 square feet. It is one of the places to visit in Ajmer.
17. Mayo College Museum
Housed in Jhalwar House, Mayo College Museum was designed by Mr. T. N. Vyas is the most important school museum in the world. Spread over 18 rooms within the campus, the entities of the repository have all been donated by old students, teachers, parents, or well-wishers. The explanation section has stuffed birds and butterflies also.
Mayo College in Ajmer is understood to be one of the simplest boarding schools in India. The school was founded by Richard Bourke in 1875. He was the Viceroy of India from 1869 to 1872. It is one of the places to visit in Ajmer.
18. Fort Masuda
Fort Masuda is situated 54km far away from Ajmer in Masuda. The fort was originally built around 1595 AD but it deteriorated fast and was in ruins very soon after. It was later restored and renovated by Nar Singhji Mertia (1583–1623). The magnificent fort now stands tall and has multiple compartments a bit like the Kanch Mahal, Bada Mahal, Chandra Mahal, etc.
The exquisite medieval fort now features a collection of miniature Rajput paintings on the walls and also a library of rare manuscripts. The paintings have a Persian influence too. It is one of the places to visit in Ajmer.
19. Sai Baba Temple
Spread over 5 beeghas, Sai Baba Temple may be a beautiful temple constructed by Mr. Suresh K. Lal. Situated in Ajay Nagar, the temple was inaugurated in 1999. The entire temple is made of marble.
The temple also has shelters for all devotees of Shirdi Sai Baba. The temple is located in Ajay Nagar, about 5 km from Ajmer Railway Station. A wonderful and peaceful place. It is one of the places to visit in Ajmer.
20. Government Museum
Housed within the premises of the traditional 16th century Akbari Fort in Ajmer, Government Museum. It boasts a huge collection of historical artifacts, exhibits, sculptures, miniature paintings, and therefore the like. The museum has been divided into several sections- art, archaeology, armory, crafts, history, miscellaneous, etc.
Various sculptures of Vishnu, Surya, Trimurti, Lakshmi Narayan, Hariharan, Kuber, Revanta, Mahishashur Mardini, Saptamatrikas, Jain Saraswati, and Kali are found here. Some Medieval battle weapons also are placed on display. It is one of the places to visit in Ajmer.
21. Taragarh Fort
Constructed within the year 1354, the Taragarh Fort is one of the foremost impressive structures in Bundi. The state of Bundi was founded during this year by Rao Deva, and this was when the development of this massive square began. Popularly known as the 'Star Fort', the attraction is located on a steep hill and offers a panoramic view of the entire city of Bundi. The fort was described by the famous author Rudyard Kipling as "more the work of Goblins than of men".
Sadly, time took its toll on this magnificent structure, and most of the majestic and interesting architecture of the fort is now in ruins. The entrance to the fort is marked by three gateways, followed by tunnels and lots of battlements alongside ramparts. These exhibits are also of great interest to tourists, just like the famous Grand Canyon or the 'Garbha Gunjan'. It is one of the places to visit in Ajmer.
22. Bijay Niwas Palace
Bijay Niwas Palace was built by Rao Bijay Singh, almost 100 years ago, at an equivalent time when he founded Bijaynagar. The ancient fort has been converted into a luxury heritage hotel with 20 rooms. Situated at 70km from Ajmer, the fort is frequented by the young and adults alike. It is one of the places to visit in Ajmer.
23. Sambhar Lake
Sambhar Lake is the most important inland saltwater lake in India. Located at a distance of 64km from Ajmer, Sambhar Lake sprawls over 5700 sq. km. of the catchment area. Boasting of a particularly extensive saline wetland, the lake is split by a 5.1km long dam that also helps within the salt-making process.
Besides, the world attracts tons of migratory birds. That makes it one of the foremost popular tourist spots within the city. It is frequented by nature lovers, wanderers, birdwatchers, photography enthusiasts, and all kinds of tourists.
The beauty of the landscape is further enhanced by the backdrop of the gorgeous Aravalli mountains. In addition to it, the town surrounding the lake is named the Sambhar Lake-town which also features a few tourist attractions just like the Salt Laboratory and the Salt Museum. It is one of the places to visit in Ajmer.
24. Maharana Pratap Smarak
Fondly dubbed the King of the hill, this historical monument pays tribute to Maharana Pratap, the last king of Rajasthan. The hill-top memorial pictures the King on his horse, riding his way into battle.
Commanding excellent views of the encompassing town, the monument is a well-liked viewpoint in Ajmer also, making it one among the foremost sought-after places to go to in Ajmer in one day. A selfie spot nearby allows you to stop and capture the instant in pictures.
25. Birla City Water Park
The Birla City Water Park is the topmost Ajmer water park that's not just the most important in Ajmer city but one among the most important in India. This Park welcomes you to a world full of rides, exciting activities, and games for both adults and youngsters.
You get to spend high-quality time exploring the exhilarating rides on water, toppling the wrong way up while splashing, sliding, swooshing, and slipping within the countless water pools that it houses. What’s more exciting is that the water park features a musical environment that allows you to chillax your soul, body, and mind. It is one of the places to visit in Ajmer.
26. Rangji Temple
Lord Rangji is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. There are two temples dedicated to Lord Rangji and it's one among the famous places to go to in Ajmer. The ancient temple was constructed by Seth Puran Mal Ganeriwal of Hyderabad in 1823. The temple is additionally referred to as Shri Vaikunt Nath.
Quite distinct from the opposite buildings of this era, this temple has the character South India (Dravidian) sort of architecture alongside the Rajput and Mughal styles that are a more common sight in Rajasthan. The new temple features a tall Gopuram that's typical of temples found in South India."
27. Buland Darwaza
One of the exceptional examples of Islamic design, this semi-octagonal Darwaza tower, displays the glory of Akbar’s reign and it is one of the historical places to visit in Ajmer. At a height of about 176 feet, this enormous gateway is the southern entry to the J Dargah Sharif. Built out of red sandstone with a mix of marble, this impressive gateway is elegantly carved, portraying exquisite craftsmanship and art.
These are some of the places to visit in Ajmer, Rajasthan, and learn the hidden glory of history and facts that the places have. Among several other things, Ajmer is documented for its historical monuments dating back to the Mughal Era. The Akbari Fort, Baradari Pavilions, and Ajmer Fort are a number of the foremost prominent historical landmarks within the city.
Some of the foremost food items that folks of Ajmer like to eat are Dal Baati Churma, Ghewar, Bajre ki Khichdi, Rajasthani Pulao, and Gatte ki Sabzi. All these dishes are traditional and are available throughout Rajasthan. The new dishes added to the cuisine are mostly the modifications done to the normal food of Rajasthan.
Rajasthan, the royal state of India, is understood for its rich cultural heritage. Folk dances play a crucial part, which isn't only aesthetically pleasing but also narrates stories in a unique and captivating way. Ghoomar, Kalbeliya, Bhavai, Kachchhi Ghodi, Gair, Chari, Kathputli dance, Chang are the popular Folk dances from Rajasthan.
The qawwalis and qawwalis of Ajmer are famous across the earth. A popular music form, qawwali attracts tourists in numbers and allows them to experience the ecstasy of the city. The word 'qawwali' comes from the Arabic word 'Qawol', which suggests an axiom based upon religious subjects that helps within the purification of thoughts. It became popular in India in the 13th century and posteriors of well-known qawwals are residing in Ajmer since then.
Phad Paintings: Unique to the town of Ajmer, Phad is an ancient sort of scroll painting done on long canvases. Generally, these paintings depict scenes from mythology or figures of local deities. Handicraft items:
The local markets of Ajmer are documented for his or their handcrafted wares. Wooden, marble brass or earthen souvenirs are the foremost common sorts of handicraft ornaments found here. Lac ornaments: Lac may be a special quiet resin harvested from lac insects.
Jewelry and ornaments fashioned out of lac are commonly sold around Ajmer, with lac bangles being one of the foremost popular wares. Jewelry: Colourful bangles, earrings, and headgears designed within the traditional Rajasthani style are massive crowd pullers within the markets of Ajmer.
These are some of the charms of Ajmer that one can enjoy. Comment down your favorite place to visit in Ajmer.
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