Ajmer Tourist Places has experienced an interesting history, draped in the barren hills, and is also experiencing a vibrant present. Established in the 7th century A.D. by Raja Ajay Pal Chauhan, Ajmer city gradually became home to many dynasties that left behind their legacy with indelible relics of their culture and tradition.
A surprising mixture of Hinduism and Islam, Ajmer is a wonderful fusion of various cultures and practices. Ajmer, the base for Pushkar tourists, boasts not only pilgrimage centers, but also picturesque lakes, museums and forts. Here are the top 10 tourist places in the city of Prithviraj Chauhan - Ajmer that you should visit.
The Ajmer Sharif Dargah
The majestic tomb of Sufi Saint Khawaja Moinuddin Chisti is situated right at the end of a barren hill and is one of the most popular pilgrimage centers in India, frequented by tourists of all faiths. The Muslims of South Asia consider it no less than Mecca or Medina, also common as Khwaja Saheb or Khwaja Sharif. Legends have it that Akbar made it a point to pay a visit to the Dargah every year.
The Mausoleum
The mausoleum features an enormous gate designed by Hyderabad's Nizam. The Akbari Masjid, constructed of white marbles and of special interest to visitors, is on the right side of the courtyard. The courtyard boasts another Shahjahan-built mosque and two gigantic cauldrons. Located at the inner court of the Dargah, Shahjahan’s mosque is a superb building made with fine white marble.
The Saint's Tomb
At the centre of the courtyard, which is surrounded by a silver platform, is the saint's tomb with a fine marble dome. During the Urs, the tomb appeals to thousands of pilgrims, marking the anniversary of the death of the Sufi Saint, usually held from the 1st to the 6th day of the Islamic month of Rajab. Another big draw is a vibrant fair that is organised during this period.
Adhai-din-ka-jhonpra
Undoubtedly a chef-d'oeuvre of Indo-Islamic architecture, Adhai-din-ka-jhoupra is situated on the outskirts of the city and is at a short distance from the Dargah.
Ajmer Museum
Once popular as the royal abode of Emperor Akbar, the museum features a rich storehouse of the Mughal and Rajput body armour and delicate sculptures. The edifice is built of red sandstones, which have been positioned in a square pattern giving it a wonderful outlook.
Taragarh Fort
The ruins of the Taragarh are a mere one and a half hour climb from the Adhai-din-ka-jhopra. Looming high on a hill top the fort allows its visitor to take a fine look at the entire city from here. All the military activities during the Mughal Period used to happen at this site and later on it was utilized by the British as a sanatorium.
Kishangarh Fort
On your route to Jaipur, this ancient storehouse of art is located at a distance of 27km from Ajmer. During the 18th Century, this place had one of the best schools for miniature paintings. Now-a-days this small town of artists is also popular for Gundelao Lake, Temple of Sri Kalyan Raii, Phool Mahal Palace and Majhala Palace.
Ana Sagar Lake
This beautiful lake, situated in the North of Ajmer, was created by Anaji during 1135-1150 AD. Later the Mughal Emperors made some additional modifications to further beautify the lake. The 'Baradari', a sandstone pavilion was constructed by ShahJahan and the Daulat Bagh Gardens were created and maintained by Jahangir. The lake is an interesting family outing spot.
Foy Sagar Lake
There is another artificial lake, located 5kms off Ajmer, which is worth a visit. Created during a famine relief programme, the lake was named after the engineer who made the lake possible.
Mayo College
Mayo College was one of the India’s most popular public schools; now it has been converted into a Circuit House. While you’re here, you can also enjoy the great sights of the lake, the cenotaph and the temple of Swami Dayanand Saraswati (the founder of Arya Samaj Mandir).