Ajmer
One of the most revered Muslim pilgrimage destinations in India; Ajmer not only attracts the followers of Islam but invites people regardless of caste and community. The town occupies a position in the western Indian state of Rajasthan. Devotees make a pilgrimage to Ajmer to pay homage and seek blessings from Sufi Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti whose tomb lies here. The city of Ajmer is also steeped in history right from the time of the Mughal era. Besides featuring the tomb of the sufi saint, Ajmer also serves as the gateway to Pushkar, a popular Hindu pilgrimage centre. So travelers have the opportunity to cover both the destinations in one single trip. It would be interesting to experience the spiritual fervour of the Islam and the Hindu religion side by side.
Best Time to Visit
October to March is a pleasant period and is therefore ideal for a sightseeing tour to Ajmer.
Mythological Background
The city remains steeped in history and legends. Ajmer was set back during the 7th century by Ajaipal Chauhan, a Rajput ruler. Before the Afghan rulers defeated the Rajputs, Ajmer was under the reign of Prithviraj Chauhan, the Rajput king of Delhi and Ajmer. The bravery of the Rajput king and their unmatched resistance is captured in an epic called ‘Prithviraj Raso’.
Places to See
Religion in India has always played a major role in Indian people’s life. Feel the sense of spirituality which pervades all over as you undertake a sightseeing tour of Ajmer. Main tourist attractions in the city are as follows.
Dargah Sharif
The dargah of Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti is the centre of attraction in Ajmer. People of every caste are allowed to pay homage to the saint. Priests are available at the dargah to assist you and to perform ceremonies. Visitors are required to take off their shoes and cover their heads with a cloth before entering the main shrine.
Ana Sagar Lake
Another attraction for tourists in Ajmer is the Ana Sagar, a manmade lake. Close to the lake lies a number of marble monuments. Hawkers selling snacks, ice creams and papads can be easily noticed along the bank of the lake.
Shah Jahan's Mosque
The picture-perfect mosque lies within the dargah premises. Named after the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, the mosque is built in white marble and feature some delicate trellis carvings to see. The architecture of the mosque is a must see for all.
Museum
Don’t miss to make a visit to the building which was once the royal residence of Mughal emperor Akbar the Great. Inside the museum are displayed a range of historical artifacts and relics including Rajput weapons and elegantly carves sculptures.
Reaching the Pilgrimage Site
If you are traveling from Delhi, you can decide to catch the Ajmer-Shatabdi Express, the fastest on the route. You can also get on board other express trains, extending the hours of the journey a little. Whether by rail or road, Ajmer remains well connected with cities like Jaipur, Udaipur and Pushkar.
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