Ajmer is a city in the western Indian state of Rajasthan. It is the administrative headquarters of Ajmer District and the seat of the eponymous Ajmer Division. Ajmer is located at the centre of Rajasthan and is a popular tourist destination. Ajayadeva, an 11th-century Rajput ruler, founded the city Ajmer. Ajmer is home to the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, a shrine to the Sufi saint Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. Ajmer was the capital of the Chauhan dynasty until 1193, when Muhammad of Ghor defeated Prithviraj Chauhan at the Second Battle of Tarain. The city subsequently came under the rule of several dynasties, including the Mughals, who granted it the status of a governorate in 1556. The city was captured by the Marathas in 1770 and was ceded to the British in 1818 by the Treaty of Ajmer. Ajmer served as the capital of British Rajasthan from 1818 to 1822 and was merged into the state of Rajasthan in 1949.
Ajmer is a city located in the northern Indian state of Rajasthan. It is situated in the Aravalli Mountain Range and is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Ajmer is a popular tourist destination, with its most famous attraction being the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, a shrine dedicated to the Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. The city also has several other historical landmarks, such as the Taragarh Fort, Adhai Din Ka Jhopra, and the Ana Sagar Lake. Ajmer is also known for its annual Urs festival, which is held at the Ajmer Sharif Dargah and attracts devotees from all over the world. Additionally, the city is home to several educational institutions, including the prestigious Mayo College.
History Of Ajmer:
The history of Ajmer dates back to ancient times when it was known as Ajayameru. It is believed that the city was founded by Raja Ajay Pal Chauhan in the 7th century AD. The Chauhan dynasty ruled the city for several centuries until it was conquered by Muhammad of Ghor in 1193 AD.
Under the Muslim rule, Ajmer became an important center of culture and commerce. The city was also a major center of Sufi culture and spirituality, with the establishment of the Ajmer Sharif Dargah by Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti in the 13th century.
In the 16th century, Ajmer came under the rule of the Mughal Empire, and Emperor Akbar made it the capital of his empire for some time. During this period, several monuments, including the Adhai Din Ka Jhopra and the Akbari Fort and Museum, were constructed.
In the 18th century, the city came under the control of the Marathas, who were later replaced by the British in the 19th century. Ajmer played an important role in India’s struggle for independence, with Mahatma Gandhi and other leaders visiting the city several times during the freedom movement.
Today, Ajmer is a bustling city that combines its rich history and cultural heritage with modern developments. It continues to attract tourists and pilgrims from all over the world, who come to visit its many historical sites and religious shrines.
How to Reach Ajmer:
Ajmer is well-connected to other parts of India by road, rail, and air. Here are some of the ways to reach Ajmer:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Ajmer is the Jaipur International Airport, which is located around 135 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ajmer.
- By Train: Ajmer has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. Some of the popular trains that operate to and from Ajmer include the Shatabdi Express, Ajmer Rajdhani, and Ajmer Duronto Express.
- By Road: Ajmer is connected to several cities in Rajasthan and neighboring states through a network of state and national highways. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from cities like Jaipur, Delhi, Udaipur, and Jodhpur to reach Ajmer.
Once you reach Ajmer, you can easily get around the city by local buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. Additionally, the city also has a well-developed network of cycle-rickshaws and tongas (horse-drawn carriages) that are popular among tourists.
10 Places To Visit In Ajmer:
There are plenty of places to visit in Ajmer, from the historic Ajmer Sharif Dargah to the beautiful Ana Sagar Lake. Other popular tourist destinations include the Mayo College, the Adhai-din-ka Jhonpra or Dhai Din Ka Jhopra Mosque, and the Ajmer Jain Temple. Ajmer is also a great base for exploring the nearby city of Pushkar, which is home to the famous Pushkar Lake and the Brahma Temple. And for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, the nearby Aravali Hills offer a perfect escape.
- Ajmer Sharif Dargah: A popular religious shrine dedicated to the Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti.
- Taragarh Fort: An ancient hilltop fort offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills.
- Adhai Din Ka Jhopra: An iconic mosque known for its unique blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles.
- Ana Sagar Lake: A serene artificial lake with several parks, gardens, and temples around its perimeter.
- Akbari Fort and Museum: A historical fort built by Emperor Akbar that now houses a museum showcasing the history and culture of Ajmer.
- Nareli Jain Temple: A beautiful Jain temple known for its intricate marble carvings and sculptures.
- Daulat Bagh: A Mughal-era garden located near the Ana Sagar Lake, featuring several fountains and flowerbeds.
- Mayo College: A prestigious boarding school that was once a palace of the Rajput kings.
- Soni Ji Ki Nasiyan: A stunning Jain temple known for its ornate marble interiors and intricate gold and silver work.
- Foy Sagar Lake: A picturesque artificial lake located on the outskirts of Ajmer, surrounded by hills and greenery.
These are just a few of the many places to visit in Ajmer. The city has a rich cultural and historical heritage, and there are several other temples, forts, and museums worth exploring.
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Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Ajmer:
Ajmer Sharif Dargah is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Ajmer. It is a holy site for Muslims and is also known as the Ajmer Sharif Mosque. The Dargah is located on the outskirts of the city and is accessible by a short walk from the Ajmer Sharif Railway Station. The Dargah complex includes the tomb of the Sufi saint Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, also known as the ‘Gharib Nawaz’. The tomb is surrounded by a large courtyard and is flanked by two minarets. The entrance to the Dargah is through the Nizam Gate, which is decorated with ornate silver and brass work.
The Dargah is visited by pilgrims from all over the world and is a popular destination for Ziyarat or Islamic pilgrimage. The Dargah complex is also home to several other shrines, mosques, and tombs, making it one of India’s most important Islamic sites. The Dargah is open to visitors all year round, and there is no entry fee.
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Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra or Dhai Din Ka Jhopra or Dhai Din Ka Jhopra, Ajmer:
Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra or Dhai Din Ka Jhopra is a mosque situated in Ajmer, Rajasthan. The mosque was built in 1192 AD by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the first Sultan of Delhi. The mosque is an excellent example of early Indian Islamic architecture. The mosque has a large courtyard, a central prayer hall, and two minarets. The main hall is covered with a series of arches and has a beautiful mihrab on the east wall. The mosque is an important pilgrimage site for Muslims and a popular tourist attraction.
Anasagar Lake, Ajmer:
Anasagar Lake is a beautiful body of water located in Ajmer, Rajasthan. The lake is named after Anasagar, a king of the Chauhan dynasty who ruled Ajmer in the 12th century. The lake was built during his reign and is one of the oldest lakes in India.
Anasagar Lake is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. The lake is surrounded by lush green vegetation and has several temples and other historical monuments nearby. Visitors can enjoy the lake’s boat, camels, and other activities. The lake is also a popular spot for birdwatching, as it is home to various bird species.
Soniji Ki Nasiyan, Ajmer:
The Soniji Ki Nasiyan is a Hindu temple complex in Ajmer, Rajasthan, India. The complex is dedicated to the Jain Tirthankara Rishabhanatha and houses a copy of the Akbari Version of the Rigveda. The temple was built in the 19th century by Seth Laxmidas, a wealthy Jain merchant, and is a notable example of Indo-Saracenic architecture.
The temple complex consists of two main temples, the larger of which is dedicated to Rishabhanatha and the smaller to Neminatha, the 22nd Tirthankara. The temples are surrounded by a colonnaded courtyard and an expansive garden. The Rishabhanatha temple is notable for its ornate facade and silver-plated doors, while the Neminatha temple houses a beautiful marble statue of the Tirthankara. The Soniji Ki Nasiyan is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ajmer and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Indian architecture and religion.
Nareli Jain Temple, Ajmer:
Nareli Jain Temple is a beautiful and peaceful place in Ajmer, Rajasthan. The temple is dedicated to Rishabhanatha, the first Tirthankara of Jainism, and is a popular pilgrimage site for Jains. The temple complex is spread over 30 acres and features several shrines and temples, including the main temple, a 12-sided mandapam, and a subterranean chamber. The temple is known for its intricately carved marble pillars and beautiful murals. Visitors to the temple often say it is a place of great peace and serenity.
Prithvi Raj Smarak, Ajmer:
The Prithvi Raj Smarak in Ajmer is a monument dedicated to the memory of the great warrior king, Prithvi Raj Chauhan. The monument was built by the 12th-century king who ruled over the twin capitals of Ajmer and Delhi. The monument is a beautiful white marble structure and features a statue of Prithvi Raj Chauhan in a heroic stance. The monument is a popular tourist spot and is visited by thousands of people annually.
Mayo College and Museum, Ajmer:
The Mayo College and Museum in Ajmer is a world-renowned educational institution and museum founded in 1875 by Lord Mayo, the Viceroy of India. The college is named after its founder and is one of India’s oldest and most prestigious institutions. The college has produced many notable alumni, including several Indian Prime Ministers, Presidents, and other prominent leaders. The museum is home to a large collection of artefacts and artworks from the British Raj period and is a popular tourist destination.
Akbar’s Palace and Museum, Ajmer:
Akbar’s Palace and Museum in Ajmer is a must-see for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. The palace was built by the great Mughal emperor Akbar in the 16th century and is a fine example of Mughal architecture. The museum houses a collection of artefacts from Akbar’s reign, including his personal effects, weapons, and armor. Visitors can also see a replica of the famous Peacock Throne. The Akbar’s Palace and Museum is a great way to learn about the Mughal Empire and its history.
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Baradari, Ajmer:
The Baradari, Ajmer is a beautiful monument located in Ajmer in Rajasthan, India. It was built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and is one of India’s finest examples of Mughal architecture. The Baradari is a large square structure with a central courtyard and an ornate marble facade. The Baradari is surrounded by a garden with fountains and is a popular tourist destination in Ajmer.
Lake Foy Sagar, Ajmer:
Nestled in the heart of Ajmer, Lake Foy Sagar is a beautiful artificial lake created in 1892. The lake is named after the British engineer, Sir Frederick William Foster, who designed it. Lake Foy Sagar is one of the major tourist attractions in Ajmer and is frequented by nature lovers and picnic-goers alike. The lake is surrounded by lush green hills and offers stunning city views. Visitors can also spot various birds and animals in and around the lake.
Delicacies And Cuisines Of Ajmer:
Ajmer has a rich culinary tradition, and the food here is a blend of Rajasthani, Mughlai, and Marwari cuisines. Here are some of the popular delicacies and cuisines of Ajmer:
- Dal Baati Churma: This is a signature Rajasthani dish that comprises of baked wheat flour balls (baati) served with a lentil curry (dal) and a sweet crumbly mixture made of wheat flour (churma).
- Laal Maas: A fiery meat curry made with mutton or lamb, flavored with a blend of spices and chilies.
- Kachori: A popular street food snack that consists of a deep-fried, crispy pastry filled with spiced lentil or potato filling.
- Mawa Kachori: A sweet version of the popular kachori, filled with a mixture of sweetened khoya (mawa) and dry fruits.
- Gatte ki Sabzi: A vegetarian dish made with gram flour dumplings cooked in a yogurt-based gravy, seasoned with spices.
- Kadhi: A yogurt-based curry thickened with gram flour, flavored with spices and served with rice or roti.
- Bajre ki Roti: A flatbread made with pearl millet flour, served with ghee and a variety of curries.
- Malpua: A sweet pancake made with flour, milk, and sugar syrup, often served with rabri (sweetened condensed milk).
- Lassi: A popular yogurt-based drink that is often served in earthenware pots, flavored with sugar, saffron, and cardamom.
- Shahi Tukda: A rich dessert made with bread soaked in sweetened milk, garnished with dry fruits and saffron.
These are just a few of the many delicious dishes that Ajmer has to offer. The city is also known for its street food, and you can find several small stalls and shops selling a variety of snacks and sweets.
Art And Culture Of Ajmer:
The art and culture of Ajmer is a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal influences. Here are some of the key aspects of the art and culture of Ajmer:
- Music and dance: Folk music and dance are an integral part of the cultural heritage of Ajmer. Kalbeliya, Ghoomar, and Bhavai are some of the popular dance forms of the region. The city is also known for its Sufi music, and qawwalis are often performed at the Ajmer Sharif Dargah.
- Handicrafts: Ajmer is known for its handicrafts, including block-printed textiles, leatherwork, pottery, and jewelry. The city is also known for its intricate embroidery work, including the famous Rajasthani mirror work.
- Festivals: Ajmer celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including the Urs festival at the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, the Pushkar Camel Fair, and the Kite Festival. These festivals offer a glimpse into the vibrant culture of the region.
- Architecture: The architecture of Ajmer is a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal styles. The Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Taragarh Fort, and Adhai Din Ka Jhopra are some of the iconic structures that showcase the rich architectural heritage of the city.
- Cuisine: The food of Ajmer is a blend of Rajasthani, Mughlai, and Marwari cuisines. The city is known for its delicious dal baati churma, laal maas, and kachori, among other dishes.
These are just a few of the many aspects of the art and culture of Ajmer. The city has a rich heritage and is a hub of art, music, and dance in Rajasthan.
Restaurants And Hotels In Ajmer:
Ajmer is a popular tourist destination and has a variety of restaurants and hotels to suit all budgets and tastes. Here are some of the popular restaurants and hotels in Ajmer:
Restaurants:
- Honeydew Restaurant: This restaurant is known for its delicious North Indian and Chinese cuisine.
- Ambrosia Restaurant: Located near the Dargah Sharif, this restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, including Rajasthani and Mughlai cuisine.
- Silver Leaf Restaurant: This restaurant offers a range of North Indian, Chinese, and continental dishes, along with a rooftop seating area that offers great views of the city.
- Sheesh Mahal Restaurant: This restaurant is located inside the Mansingh Palace hotel and offers a range of Indian and international cuisine.
- Kanha Restaurant: This restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, including Rajasthani and Punjabi cuisine.
Hotels:
- The Gateway Resort: This is a luxury hotel located on the outskirts of Ajmer, offering spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and several dining options.
- Mansingh Palace: This is a heritage hotel located near the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, offering comfortable rooms, a rooftop restaurant, and a swimming pool.
- Hotel Ambassador: This is a budget-friendly hotel located near the railway station, offering basic amenities and comfortable rooms.
- Hotel Vega Inn: This is a mid-range hotel located in the heart of the city, offering spacious rooms and a restaurant that serves Indian and continental cuisine.
- Hotel Shanti Palace: This is a budget-friendly hotel located near the Dargah Sharif, offering basic amenities and comfortable rooms.
These are just a few of the many restaurants and hotels in Ajmer. Visitors to the city can choose from a variety of options based on their preferences and budget.
Places Of Worship In Ajmer:
Ajmer is a city with a rich spiritual and religious heritage, and it is home to several places of worship that are significant to various communities. Here are some of the popular places of worship in Ajmer:
- Ajmer Sharif Dargah: This is the most famous place of worship in Ajmer, located in the heart of the city. It is the shrine of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, a Sufi saint who is revered by people of all faiths.
- Nasiyan Jain Temple: This temple is located in the old city and is dedicated to Lord Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankara of the Jain religion. The temple is famous for its impressive architecture and intricate glasswork.
- Ana Sagar Lake: This is a picturesque lake located on the outskirts of Ajmer. It is considered a holy site by Hindus, who believe that taking a dip in the lake can wash away sins.
- Sai Baba Temple: This temple is dedicated to the renowned Indian saint Sai Baba and is located in the heart of the city. It is a popular place of worship for devotees of Sai Baba.
- Akbari Masjid: This mosque is located near the Ajmer Sharif Dargah and was built by Mughal emperor Akbar in the 16th century. It is considered one of the most beautiful mosques in Ajmer.
- Adhai Din Ka Jhopra: This mosque is located near the Ajmer Sharif Dargah and was built by Qutb-ud-din Aibak in the 12th century. It is a beautiful example of Indo-Islamic architecture.
These are just a few of the many places of worship in Ajmer. The city is a symbol of religious harmony, with people of various faiths coexisting peacefully and celebrating each other’s festivals.
Schools And Colleges In Ajmer:
Ajmer has several well-established schools and colleges that provide quality education to students. Here are some of the popular schools and colleges in Ajmer:
Schools:
- Mayo College: Mayo College is a renowned boarding school for boys, established in 1875. It is considered one of the best schools in India and has a rich heritage and tradition.
- Sophia School: Sophia School is a popular all-girls school in Ajmer, established in 1949. It provides education from nursery to class 12th and is affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE).
- St. Paul’s Senior Secondary School: St. Paul’s is a co-educational school that provides education from nursery to class 12th. It is affiliated with the CBSE and has a good track record in academics and co-curricular activities.
- Ajmer International School: Ajmer International School is a modern school that provides education from nursery to class 12th. It is affiliated with the CBSE and has a strong focus on technology and innovation in education.
- Delhi Public School: Delhi Public School is a popular chain of schools in India, with a branch in Ajmer. It provides education from nursery to class 12th and is affiliated with the CBSE.
Colleges:
- Government College Ajmer: Government College Ajmer is a well-known college in Ajmer that offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in various disciplines, including science, arts, and commerce.
- MDS University: MDS University, also known as Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati University, is a renowned university in Ajmer that offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in various disciplines.
- Sophia Girls College: Sophia Girls College is a well-known college for women in Ajmer that offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in arts, science, and commerce.
- Mayo College Girls’ School: Mayo College Girls’ School is a reputed school for girls in Ajmer that also offers undergraduate courses in various disciplines.
- Sophia College for Women: Sophia College for Women is a well-known college for women in Ajmer that offers undergraduate courses in arts, science, and commerce.
These are just a few of the popular schools and colleges in Ajmer. The city has several other institutions that provide quality education and cater to the diverse needs of students.
Hospitals In Ajmer:
Ajmer has several hospitals and healthcare facilities that provide quality medical care to its residents and visitors. Here are some of the popular hospitals in Ajmer:
- Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and Hospital: Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and Hospital is a well-known medical college and hospital in Ajmer. It provides quality medical care and is equipped with modern medical equipment and technology.
- Christian Mission Hospital: Christian Mission Hospital is a popular hospital in Ajmer that provides quality medical care and has a team of experienced doctors and healthcare professionals.
- Kshetrapal Hospital: Kshetrapal Hospital is a well-known hospital in Ajmer that provides quality medical care in various specialties, including cardiology, neurology, and orthopedics.
- Shree Ram Hospital: Shree Ram Hospital is a popular hospital in Ajmer that provides quality medical care in various specialties, including gynecology, pediatrics, and general medicine.
- JLN Hospital and Research Centre: JLN Hospital and Research Centre is a modern hospital in Ajmer that is equipped with advanced medical technology and provides quality medical care in various specialties, including cardiology, oncology, and neurology.
- Gheesibai Memorial Hospital: Gheesibai Memorial Hospital is a well-known hospital in Ajmer that provides quality medical care in various specialties, including obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, and general medicine.
These are just a few of the popular hospitals in Ajmer. The city has several other hospitals and healthcare facilities that provide quality medical care and cater to the diverse needs of its residents and visitors.
Trade And Commerce In Ajmer:
Ajmer is an important center of trade and commerce in the state of Rajasthan. The city is home to several industries and is known for its production of textiles, handicrafts, and marble products. Here are some of the major industries and trade activities in Ajmer:
- Textile Industry: Ajmer is known for its textile industry, which produces a variety of fabrics, including cotton, silk, and woolen fabrics. The city has several textile mills and handloom centers that employ a large number of people.
- Handicrafts Industry: Ajmer is also known for its handicrafts industry, which produces a variety of products, including pottery, wooden handicrafts, jewelry, and textiles. The city has several handicraft centers and markets that cater to both local and international markets.
- Marble Industry: Ajmer is home to several marble mines and marble processing units. The city is known for its production of high-quality marble products, including statues, sculptures, and decorative items.
- Agriculture: Ajmer is an important agricultural center in Rajasthan, known for its production of wheat, barley, maize, and gram. The city also has several dairy farms and animal husbandry centers.
- Tourism: Ajmer is a popular tourist destination, known for its historical and religious sites, including the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Ana Sagar Lake, and Taragarh Fort. Tourism is an important source of revenue for the city, and the hospitality and tourism industry is well-developed.
In addition to these industries, Ajmer is also an important trading center, with several markets and commercial areas that cater to both local and international markets. The city is well-connected to major cities in Rajasthan and other parts of the country, which makes it an attractive destination for business and trade activities.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Ajmer is a beautiful city in Rajasthan that is known for its rich history, culture, and religious significance. The city is home to several historical and religious sites, including the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Ana Sagar Lake, and Taragarh Fort, which attract visitors from all over the world. Ajmer is also an important center of trade and commerce, with several industries, including textiles, handicrafts, and marble products. The city has a well-developed infrastructure, with good connectivity to major cities in Rajasthan and other parts of the country. Ajmer is also known for its delicious cuisine, with several restaurants and street food vendors that offer a variety of local and regional delicacies. Overall, Ajmer is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the rich history, culture, and traditions of Rajasthan.