Ajmer is one of the oldest cities in Rajasthan, a North Indian state of India. The name Ajmer is derived from ‘Ajay Meru’ which means ‘invincible hills.’ As the history says, Ajmer was founded by Raja Ajay Pal Chauhan in the 7th century AD and remained in the power of Chauhan’s till 1193 AD. The last ruler of Chauhan dynasty was Prithviraj Chauhan and he lost the kingdom to Mohammed Gaure. Later, Ajmer became home to many dynasties including Mughals and Britishers.
Ajmer is flanked by the green hills of Aravalli Ranges, and looks like an oasis in the desert. Location wise, it is located to the Southwest of Jaipur, at a distance of 135 kilometres from the capital of Rajasthan. It is well connected to the cities like Jaipur, Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Jodhpur by the means of railway and road. The historical city is now a popular pilgrimage site for Muslims and Hindus all over the world. There are several tourist places in Ajmer that exhibit the rich history and culture of the place.
Want to plan a trip to this historical city of Rajasthan? Want a list of the best places to explore in Ajmer? Here is a guide on the 15 best places to visit in Ajmer. Reading the whole article will help you through the planning of your next trip to the city.
Ajmer Tourism – List of Top 15 Best Tourist Places to Visit in Ajmer Rajasthan
- Ajmer Sharif Dargah
- Ajmer Jain Temple
- Ana Sagar Lake
- Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra
- Taragarh Fort
- Daulat Bagh
- Akbar’s Palace
- Durga Bagh Garden
- Nareli Jain Temple
- Clock Tower
- Foy Sagar Lake
- Kishangarh City
- Mayo College Museum
- Fort Masuda
- Prithviraj Memorial Ajmer
Popular Ajmer Rajasthan Sightseeing Tour Packages
Ajmer Sharif Dargah
One of the holiest places in Rajasthan, as well as India, Ajmer Sharif Dargah is a pilgrimage shrine for both Muslims and Hindus across the world. It attracts millions of visitors seeking blessings every year. The dargah was built by Khwaja Moinuddin Hasan Chisti who was born in 1141 AD in Iran. After gaining religious knowledge about Sufism he came to India along with Mohammed Ghori and settled in Ajmer. Considered as a living spirit, Khwaja Saheb died in 1236 AD. He established the Chishti order of Sufism and distributed his knowledge along with peace and harmony to his devotees
Ajmer Sharif Dargah is one of the amazing places in Rajasthan that brings the presence of ancient Mughal architecture. The shrine was built by Emperor Humayun, which flaunts huge silver doors boasting exquisite carvings. You can get a glimpse of the tomb of the Khwaja Saheb once you reach the courtyard. The tomb is made out of marble and there is a gold plating on the top of the Dargah.
Things to Do
The Ajmer Sharif Dargah is a place, which is to be believed where your wishes and desires come true.
- You can pray here and opt for any of the services among flowers, attar, ghilaf and sandalwood powder, Shahi Chadar, Monthly Chatti Dua and many more.
- Spend some time amidst spiritualism.
- Visit the dargah and learn about the interesting facts about it.
- Listen to qawwalis in the mehfil-e-same inside the Dargah after namaz is offered.
Also Read: Muslim Pilgrimage Sites in Rajasthan
Ajmer Jain Temple
Ajmer Jain Temple or popularly known as Soniji Ki Nasiyan is a 19th century old architectural gem of Rajasthan. The main chamber of the temple, called ‘Swarna Nagari’ or the ‘City of Gold’ has a number of gold-plated wooden figures. The figures are related to the Jain tradition. The main chamber has 1,000 kilograms of gold for the carvings to depict ‘Ayodhya.’
The temple is made of red stone and that’s why it is also called ‘Lal Mandir.’ The construction was started back in the year 1864 and it opened its doors to the devotees in the next year May. The temple, called Siddhkoot Chaityalaya, also known as ‘Soniji Ki Nasiyan,’ was built by Rai Bahadur Seth Moolchand and Nemichand Soni. It is dedicated to Rishabhdev (Lord Agnidev), who was the first of the 24 Tirthankaras in Digambar sect. of Jainisim.
Things to Do
The temple remains open all day of the week from 6 AM to 8:30 PM.
- You can visit this place at the time of morning aarti or evening aarti.
- Feel amused by the architecture of the temple.
- Take photographs of the surroundings and the architecture.
- Spend some time amidst peace and serenity.
Also Read: Jain Pilgrimage Sites in Rajasthan
Ana Sagar Lake
Anasagar Lake is one of the popular tourist destinations in Rajasthan, as well as Ajmer. It is located at the heart of the city and a perfect place to watch sunsets. Anasagar Lake is an old artificial lake built by Arnoraja, who was grandfather of Prithviraj Chauhan and ruled during 1135 to 1150 AD. Spread across an area of over 13 kilometres, the lake is surrounded by a garden, called Daulat Bagh Garden. The garden was made by the Mughal ruler Jahangir and later, another ruler Shah Jahan constructed five pavilions, called Baradari, between the lake and the garden.
One of the main tourist attractions of Anasagar Lake is the circuit house, which was built on the hill near the lake by the Britishers. There is an island at the centre of the lake where you can reach by boat hired from the Daulat Bagh. To keep the lake safe from any kind of pollution, construction is banned in the catchment areas.
Things to Do
October to March is the best time to visit this lake as in summer the lake dries up. You can do the following things while visiting this place.
- Watch a splendid sunset in the afternoon.
- Have a boat ride and explore the island in the middle of the lake.
- Take some amazing photographs of the lake and its surroundings.
- Walk around the lake and explore the flora and fauna.
- Indulge in street foods and discover some local food of Rajasthan.
Also Read: Must Visit Lakes in Rajasthan
Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra
Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra is located at a walking distance of Ajmer Sharif Dargah. It is an ancient mosque featuring a mix of Indian, Muslim, Hindu and Jain architecture maintained under the Archaeological Survey of India. The mosque is one of the oldest surviving monuments in India, as well as in Rajasthan.
The mosque has a unique name as it is believed to be built in 60 hours or ‘two and a half days’ under the spell of Qutb-ud-Din-Aibak, who was ordered to make a mosque for the Mughal Emperor Muhammad Ghor. The building was previously used for a Sanskrit College built by Visaladeva from the Chauhan dynasty. However, the artisans could not destroyed it completely in 60 hours but able to construct a screen wall where Muhammad Ghor could pray.
Later in the year of 1199 CE, the architecture, designed by Abu Bakr from Herat, was completed. It was used as a mosque till independence and then listed under the ASI. Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra is now a popular tourist attraction in Ajmer that attracts innumerable visitors of all religions throughout the year.
Things to Do
This place remains open from 6 AM to 7 PM everyday. You can do the following things here:
- Leran about the architecture that depicts a mix of Indian, Muslim, Hindu and Jain architecture.
- Explore this place along with Ajmer Sharif Dargah on a day trip to Ajmer.
- Have a picnic here in the winter.
- Take photographs of this ancient architecture.
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Taragarh Fort
Originally named Ajaymeru Durg, Taragarh Fort was built by Ajaypal Chauhan in the 8th century (721-734 AD). Taragarh Fort is one of the best places to visit in Ajmer that attracts tourists across the globe for its stunning architecture. Moreover, the amazing panoramic view of the city from the fort is equally impressive. The fort was built upon a hill in the city owing to strategic importance. It was captured by Prthviraj Chauhan in the 15th century and renamed Taragarh after his wife Tarabai.
The massive fort comes with three gateways named Gagudi Ki Pathak, Lakshmi Pol and Phuta Darwaza. The carvings on the doors are one of the finest examples of ancient artworks. There are so many tunnels inside a criss cross section of the fort. The tunnels were used as hideouts during the enemy attacks.
Things to Do
Taragarh Fort has become the favourite travel destination of the travellers visiting Ajmer over the years. It remains open from 6 AM to 8:30 PM. You can do the following things within the fort:
- Explore the fort with a certified Ajmer Travel Guide.
- Explore the impressive architecture of Hathi Pole, Chitra Mahal, Badal Mahal and many more places within the palace.
- Click photographs of the historical evidence of the ancient times.
Also Read: Heritage Tourism in Rajasthan
Daulat Bagh
Daulat Bagh is the garden that partially encompasses Anasagar Lake in the heart of Ajmer city. It spreads across a huge area covered with flowers, bushes and trees. The garden was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, which describes his love for nature. Anasagar Lake is situated at the Eastern side of the garden, which adds beauty to this green space.
Daulat Bagh is a well-maintained greenery and one of the relaxing places in Ajmer. You can visit this place during a visit to Anasagar Lake and hire a boat from here to the island on the lake.
Things to Do
Some of the popular things to do in Daulat Bagh are:
- If you are staying in Ajmer for a couple of days, treat this place for morning workout.
- Plan a picnic here amidst nature with your family in winter.
- Watch the amazing sunset and get mesmerised.
- Watch the stars and learn about them at night.
Also Read: Must Visit Forts in Rajasthan
Akbar’s Palace
Akbar’s Palace, located in Naya Bazar, Ajmer is a building constructed in 1570 AD. It was treated as a residence of Akbar’s son, Prince Salim and later served as a meeting place of Jahangir and Sir Thomas Roe, who was the English ambassador to the Mughals.
Later, in the year 1908, the palace was converted into a museum. There is a huge collection of Hindu idols of 6th and 7th centuries in the museum. The idols depict a mix style of Rajput and Mughal designs. One of the most famous displays here is a large black statue of Goddess Kali, made of marble. Apart from the idols, the museum also has some age-old weapons and antique sculptures.
Things to Do
The museum remains open from 10 AM to 5 PM. Some of the things you can do here are:
- Take a stroll around the whole property.
- Visit the museum.
- Learn about the history of the idols and the weapons.
Also Read: Must Visit Palaces in Rajasthan
Durga Bagh Garden
Durga Bagh Garden is one of the beautiful green-covered areas in Ajmer. The garden was built on the bank of Anasagar Lake by Maharaja Shiv Dan in 1868 AD. It is one of the best-known gardens in Ajmer that flaunts numerous flowers and trees. Watching an amazing sunset overlooking the hues of the sky is one of the best things to do here.
Things to Do
The place opens at 9 AM and closes at 6 PM every day. Some of the things to do in Durga Bagh Garden is:
- Enjoy the view of the lake from the garden.
- Have a walk around the garden.
- Click some amazing photographs of Ajmer’s green side.
- Plan a picnic with family in winter.
- Relax for some time after visiting places in Ajmer.
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Nareli Jain Temple
Nareli Jain Temple is one of the beautiful monuments in Ajmer dedicated to Digambar Jains. It is a newly built (1994) marble temple compared to the other historical monuments in Rajasthan. The temple is located on the Aravali Mountain range and consists of a total of 24 Jinalayas for 24 tirthankars of Jainism.
It is located at a distance of seven kilometres to the Southeast of Ajmer city. Also known as Shri Gyandoaya Tirth Kshetra, the temple features a striking style of architecture mixing traditional with contemporary.
Things to Do
Some of the things you can do here:
- Walk around the complex of the temple.
- Click some photographs of the place.
- Pray for the well-being of humanity.
- Spend some quality time in a peaceful environment.
Also Read: Pilgrimage Tourism in Rajasthan
Clock Tower
Also known as the Victoria Jubilee Clock Tower, this tower is located opposite to Ajmer Railway Station. In 1887, it was built to mark the silver jubilee of Queen Victoria. The Clock Tower features the Indo-Islamic style of architecture topped by a classic monopteros. The roof is a dome styled in Indo-Islamic architecture.
Things to Do
People can see this clock tower upon reaching the Ajmer Junction railway.
- Get a closer view of the tower from the flyover.
- Spend some time around it.
- Click photographs.
- Eat a sumptuous meal in any of the restaurants near the architecture.
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Foy Sagar Lake
Foy Sagar Lake is located at a distance of seven kilometres from Ajmer Junction Railway station. It is a man-made lake built as a part of a Famine Relief Project in 1892 by a British architect Mr. Foy. The lake was built for the purpose to solve the water scarcity during drought in Ajmer.
Looking like a pancake for its flat shape, Foy Sagar Lake has become an important source of water over the years. It can hold up to 15 million cubic feet of water in it. The natural beauty of the lake along with its surroundings amazes visitors every time.
Things to Do
Travellers having a day trip in and around Ajmer can visit this place for some time. They can do some of the following things here:
- Plan a picnic here in the winter.
- Have a walk around the garden along the lake.
- Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Aravali range.
- Click photographs of some amazing landscapes.
Other Interesting Blog to Read
Kishangarh City
Kishangarh city is located in the outskirts of Ajmer. It is popularly known as the Marble City of India due to the abundance of marble markets in the city. The city is located at a distance of 30 kilometres from Ajmer.
Apart from the marble markets, the place is also famous for its colourful culture and art. It is known for its Bani Thani style of paintings, Kishangarh Fort, Phool Mahal Palace and many more temples. Kishangarh city is the only place in the world where you can find a temple of nine planets.
Things to Do
The best time to visit this place is from October to March. You can do some of the following things while visiting Kishangarh City.
- Visit Kishangarh Fort and book a stay in Hotel Phool Mahal Palace adjacent to the fort.
- Visit Mokham Vilas and watch migratory birds.
- Have a boat ride on Gondulav Lake.
- Visit Sukh Sagar and feel the tranquillity of the place.
Other Interesting Blog to Read
Mayo College Museum
Mayo College Museum is housed in the Jhalwar House of Mayo College, Ajmer. The museum is considered the largest school museum in the world. It was ideated by Mr. TN Vyas. The museum is spread across a total of 18 rooms and it features old paintings, photographs, coins, sculptures donated by well-wishers, old students and parents. The college was founded in 1875 by Richard Bourke. It is one of the best boarding schools in India.
Things to Do
The museum remains open from 10 AM to 4 PM. There is no entry fee in the museum, however you need permission from the administration to visit this place.
- Learn about the antique stuff featured in the museum.
- Visit the premises of the museum with permission.
- Get pictures of the evening view of the building.
Also Read: Must Visit Museums in Rajasthan
Fort Masuda
It is situated 54 kilometres from Ajmer in a strategic location between Ajmer and Chitore. The first version of the fort was built around 1595 AD and soon it turned into ruins. Nar Singhji Mertia in 1583 started restoring this fort and it is now renovated as a beautiful fort.
Fort Masuda has multiple compartments like Chandra Mahal, Bada Mahal, Kaanch Mahal etc. It features Rajput paintings all over the walls and has a library where a number of rare manuscripts are found.
Things to Do
Fort Masuda is a beautiful tourist spot located in the outskirts of Ajmer. Only one to two hours is required to visit the fort.
- Visit Gopaldwara Temple inside the property.
- Visit the library and learn about the old-paintings.
- Visit Chandra Mahal and watch the paintings of planetary systems on ceilings.
Other Interesting Blog to Read
Prithviraj Memorial Ajmer
It is a memorial dedicated to the greatest ruler of Chauhan Dynasty, Prithviraj Chauhan. The memorial is located on Taragarh Road. It has a statue of the king and his horse made of blackstone. The king has been shown with an arrow and a bow in hand. The Smarak is a famous spot in the Ajmer and popular as a war memorial of Prithviraj Chauhan.
Things to Do
The king was the last Hindu ruler of Delhi who was lost in the Second Battle of Tarain by Muhammad Ghori. The king was executed after losing the battle which is depicted in the symbolism of the memorial.
- People can get a complete city view from the memorial.
- Feel amused by the night view of the memorial.
- Walk around the memorial and spend quality time amidst greenery.
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We hope that the above-mentioned list of must-visit places will help you make an itinerary for Ajmer. These are some of the popular tourist attractions in Ajmer, as well as in Rajasthan. Moreover, you can visit some of these places on a day trip while traveling to Jaipur.
However, we offer some of the best Rajasthan Tourism/Ajmer Tourism packages that will cater for your requirements. If you need any assistance for visiting places in Ajmer, as well as in Rajasthan, you can call us or browse our website for the best service. Moreover, you can also customise the Rajasthan Tour packages as per your requirements.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ajmer famous for?
Ajmer, the city of Rajasthan is famous for being home to Dargah Sharif. The site is popular among people of all faiths across the world. The shrine houses the Tomb of Garib Nawaz or Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti, who is the founder of Chisti order of Sufism. Not only for Muslims, the city is also famous as a pilgrimage site for Hindus. Pushkar is believed to be the abode of Lord Brahma, which is located about 10 kilometres Northwest of Ajmer.
What is the best time to plan a holiday vacation to Ajmer?
The best time for visiting Ajmer is between October and February. This time, the weather in Ajmer is pleasant and comfortable for visiting sightseeing places. Moreover, winter in Ajmer is mild and not that cold. The average temperature remains between 15 and 18 degrees celsius and the minimum temperature won’t go beyond five degrees.
What are the best places to visit in 1 day in Ajmer?
If you have one day in hand and want to tour some of the top visiting places in Ajmer, you can include these places in your itinerary.
- Start your trip in the early morning. Start your day trip by praying at Dargah Sharif, and then visit another historical place, Dhai Din ka Jhopra.
- Then spend some time in Digamber Jain Temple or Soniji Ki Nasiyan.
- Then visit Ajmer Fort and learn about another historical place in Ajmer.
- End your trip by watching the sunset at Anasagar Lake
What are the top attractions to visit in Ajmer?
Ajmer has so many popular points of tourist interest. Some of them are:
- Hazrat Khwaja Gharib Nawaz Dargah
- Dhai Din ka Jhonpra
- Taragarh Fort
- Anasagar Lake
- Ajmer Jain Temple
What are the top day excursion tours from Ajmer?
Travellers can book Ajmer sightseeing tour packages for day excursions. The itineraries for day excursion tours include some famous places, which can be visited within a day. However, this historical city has its own charm and there are so many popular tourist attraction spots that you must add to your Ajmer itinerary. It is suggested to stay in Ajmer minimum for a couple of days and travel as per your choice. Moreover, you can also attend Pushkar Camel Festival while travelling to Ajmer for a day in early November.
Some of the top day excursion tours are:
- Ajmer and Pushkar Day Trip from Ajmer
- Ajmer Pushkar Day Trip with camel safari
- Sightseeing guided Ajmer Rajasthan tour to Ajmer
- Experiencing Pushkar Camel Festival
What the popular religious places to visit in Ajmer?
- Ajmer Sharif Dargah
- Soniji ki Nasiyan
- Nareli Jain Temple
- Sai Baba Temple
What the top heritage attractions to visit in Ajmer?
- Akbar’s Palace
- Taragarh Fort
- Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra
What the best nature sightseeing places in Ajmer?
- Anasagar Lake
- Daulat Bagh
- Lake Foy Sagar
- Birds Eye View Point
Which are the nearest railway stations and airports to Ajmer?
The city of Ajmer is well connected with major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Jodhpur etc., by railway transportation as well as by road. It is also connected by air travel options.
Some of the nearest railway stations to Ajmer are:
- Ajmer Junction
- Madar
- Nasirabad
- Kishangarh
- Bandanwara
- Tiloniya
- Beawar
At present, there are two nearest airports to Ajmer, one is Jaipur International Airport or Sanganer Airport, which is 135 kilometres away from Ajmer. Another is Kishangarh Airport, which is 34 kilometres away from Ajmer.
About the author
From the ‘City of Joy,’ Kolkata, Nandini Bhattacharya is a Travel Writer by profession and traveller by passion. She loves to explore places around the world, new cultures, different cuisines and all new things that one can learn outside the home. She also loves to document her journey so that people can be inspired and travel more. Nandini is a nature lover and talks about sustainable tourism. She wants to make this world a good place where people can live healthy and happily.
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