Explore Ajmer: Top Places to Visit for History & Culture

Ajmer is definitely one of the places that deserves a visit when one is touring Rajasthan in India since it is a city rich in history as well as spirituality. There is a great mix of historical and contemporary activities owing to the city’s past and culture. Indeed, Ajmer is today surrounded by the Aravalli Hills and has for the past centuries been an important cultural and religious hub of people. Ajmer, the name of the city is considered to have been derived from ‘Ajmeru’ a sanskrit word which means ‘watered place’. And indeed it is a true indication of the importance of Ajmer as a water supply source in the dry regions of Rajasthan.

Historical Sites at Ajmer

• Dargah Sharif 

One of the most important things to see in the city of Ajmer which of course is the Dargah Sharif is the tomb of the saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti and is an important Sufi shrine. The place is an important site for pilgrimage for Muslims, and Hindus too. There is something quite special about the entire environment of the shrine and the detailed designs of the building are simply spectacular.

Besides the Dargah Sharif, Ajmer has other historical sites worth visiting: 

• Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra: This structure is a fine piece of art that showcases the architectural skills back in time . It was first erected as a shrine by the Chauhans and was turned into haji qutub ud din aybak's mosque . Beautifully adorned with lush carving's from yesteryears and the presence of the tourist place augments the beauty.

• Akbar's Hall: Although in ruins, Akbar's Palace offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Mughal Empire. The palace's location on a hilltop provides stunning views of the city. Exploring the ruins is a great way to understand the history of Ajmer and the Mughal era.
• Taragarh Fort: At the top of hills Taragarh Fort offers a view of the entire city and the neighboring landscape. Rich history has the fort that has once served as a crucial strategic post. The remnants of the ruined fort, its history, the trekker, and the beautiful surrounding remains untouched.

• Lakes Ana Sagar Lake: Located in Ajmer, Ana Sagar Lake is an artificial lake with beautiful scenic landscape around it. The surrounding lush vegetation is suitable for reasonable boating activities while the place is also a large temple with several other shrines creating a haven of peace and relaxation. There are more places than just the lake, and temples dominate the landscape.

Apart from Ana Sagar Lake, there are also other water bodies near Ajmer that are quite serene:

• Pushkar Lake: Pushkar Lake is a sacred lake situated a little way from Ajmer that draws thousands of pilgrims every year. The territory is dotted with several temples including the well-known Brahma temple, creating a calming and pious atmosphere around the lake which under some circumstances is quite peaceful.
• Kajli Lake: Located further from the center; it is situated east of Ana Sagar Lake. This lake is just as good as the previous one and even better as it can provide a great escape with quieter background noise than lying on the beach, making it an excellent choice for picnics or boating.

Gardens

Durga Bagh Garden: Ajmer also is known for some other historical importance of its own and one such site is the ‘Durga Bagh Garden’, located at the nigh center of the city. Some go there to work in the garden and try to escape the busy city life and that’s actually a perfect use for those gardens. It has fountains, a variety of flowers, and walking paths with an atmosphere that makes it great for picnics or leisurely strolls.

Ajmer is famous for its gardens as well.

• Ajaygarh Garden: Situated on a hill, Ajaygarh Garden commands panoramic views of the city and its countryside's landscapes. The garden is fairly kept and gifted with several plants, flowers, and trees.
• Daulat Bagh Garden: Surrounded by noise and pollution of the city, Daulat Bagh Garden comes as an oasis in the desert. In depicting Mu Mughal the garden has beautiful fountains and pavilions with manicured lawns.

Temples

• Nasiyan Jain Temple: One of the most important Jain temples in Ajmer, the Nasiyan Jain Temple is a masterpiece oozing with decorative and sculptural artworks. This temple is thronged by many monks, as it is dedicated to Lord Mahavira, the main figure of Jainism, and serves as the principal place of worship for Jains. Ajmer’s religious and ancient history is further reflected in the several temples of significant importance to the Indian subcontinent.
• Narayan Temple: This temple belongs to the Hindus as it is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. People still go on pilgrimages to this temple today as it reputedly contains attractive decor. It was reportedly constructed in the 11th century.
• Rameshwaram Temple: It is located along the banks of Ana Sagar Lake and is a popular temple destination for tourists. The temple's serene atmosphere and vistas make it an appealing destination.

Things to Do in Ajmer

Exploring the Old city: The old city is Interesting with crook and cranny streets and busy marketplaces filled with activity and noise. Allow the sights and sounds of Ajmer to envelop you as you buy some of the amazing artifacts and immerse yourself in the culture.

• Go to Ajmer Sharif Dargah: Come to the Dargah Sharif and feel the pyar of the faith in the people.
• Take a Boat Ride on Ana Sagar Lake: Hiring a boat at a minimal cost to take a ride around Ana Sagar Lake is refreshing and out of this world. It is a great way to see the beautiful view of Ana Sagar Lake.
• Explore the Historical Sites: All the historical sites such as Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra, Akbar’s Palace, and Taragad Fort are only going to make you appreciate the history thatAjmer has.
• Buy Souvenirs: Souvenirs in the form of endemic handicrafts, jewelry, textiles and other forms are to be bought in Ajmer.
• Cultural Participation: Join the peoples of Ajmer when they celebrate their culture in events like music song and dance and many more folkloric great occasions.
• Savor Rajasthani dishes: Dishes like dal bati chuma, laccha paratha and mirchi vada should not be consumed in moderation as they pack a culinary punch of Rajasthani goodness.

Best Time to Visit Ajmer

For comfortable temperatures, it is best time to visit Ajmer from October to March. The best months are October, November, and February as they offer the most ideal weather. Avoid months such as July to September as it is tornado season and the city receives heavy precipitation.

Combining history, culture, and spirituality, Ajmer has something for everyone. It also has numerous famous places and ajmer attractions which will ensure that visitors leave with the feeling of wanting to come back. No matter how old or what background you come from Ajmer has something for you whether it is history, spirituality, or just a peaceful escape.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.What is Ajmer famous for?

Religiously and historically, Ajmer is most well-known for having the Dargah, a Sufi temple that directs itself to Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, which is also recognized as a place of importance for both Muslims and Hindus. Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra, Akbar’s Palace, and Ana Sagar Lake are some interesting sites and structures found in this city alongside other archaeological sites and temples.

2.How many places to visit in Ajmer?

Ajmer offers a variety of attractions for visitors, including historical sites, lakes, gardens, temples, and more. While there is no exact number, some popular places to visit include:

• Dargah Sharif
• Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra
• Akbar's Palace
• Ana Sagar Lake
• Nasiyan Jain Temple
• Pushkar Lake
• Durga Bagh Garden

3.What is famous in Ajmer for eating?

Ajmer is well known for its mouthwatering Rajasthani food. Among the well-known foods to sample are:

• Dal Bati Churma is a classic Rajasthani meal made with sweet crumbles, baked wheat balls, and lentil curry.
• A crispy flatbread filled with potatoes or veggies is called a laacha paratha.
• Mirchi Vada: Hot fritters prepared with gram flour and chili peppers.
• Ghevar: A delicious dish composed of sugar, flour, and clarified butter.

4.What is special about Ajmer Dargah?

There are various reasons why the Ajmer Dargah is a distinctive and unique location.

• Religious Significance: It represents religious tolerance and harmony and is a popular destination for both Muslims and Hindus.
• Historical Significance: Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, a renowned Sufi saint who was instrumental in the propagation of Islam in India, is honored at the shrine.
• Architectural Beauty: The main shrine, courtyards, and other buildings in the Dargah complex are all intricately designed.
• Spiritual Atmosphere: The Dargah is renowned for its calm and serene ambiance, which offers guests a place of spiritual solace.