Ajmer is one of the most important spiritual and cultural places of Rajasthan. This place is nestled in the ancient Aravalli Hills. Ajmer was established in the 12th century by the Chauhan ruler Ajayaraja II and this place is famous for its shrine of the Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. This shrine is visited by pilgrims from all over the world.
In contrast to the majority of Rajasthan's other places that are primarily devoted to forts and palaces, Ajmer has a blend of pilgrimage sites, historical monuments, scenic lakes, and rich local culture. The holy Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Taragarh Fort and sunset at Ana Sagar Lake are worth visiting.
The guide contains all the information required before booking Ajmer tour packages, the best places to visit, religious significance, local foods, shopping and much more.
Why Visit Ajmer?
Ajmer is the place where Sufi traditions, Rajput history, Mughal heritage and pilgrimage experiences are all combined. It is located in the Aravalli Hills and is a place for all, spiritual seekers, history enthusiasts and families interested in the cultural side of Rajasthan.
So, here are the reasons why Ajmer should be a part of your travel bucket list:
A Spiritual Centre that is inclusive for all
One of the most visited landmarks of the city is the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, one of the most important Sufi pilgrimage sites in South Asia. The shrine is visited by millions of people of different faiths and backgrounds every year.
Prayers, qawwali and the hustle and bustle of the lanes leading to the shrine leave a lasting impression. Pilgrimage tour packages are chosen by people to make their pilgrimage journey more convenient and enriching, as they can visit Ajmer Sharif and other sacred places in the region.
It is a Key Stop on the Pilgrimage Circuit of Rajasthan.
Ajmer is a significant pilgrimage site as it links various religions. Many tourists visit Ajmer Sharif before going to Pushkar, which is one of the holiest cities for pilgrimage for Hindus. The combination of these makes Ajmer and Pushkar tour packages one of the most popular spiritual tours in Rajasthan.
A City Shaped by Kings and Empires
The town of Ajmer was founded by Ajayaraja II and was the seat of the Chauhan dynasty, and is closely linked to the legendary Prithviraj Chauhan. Later, the city was a significant centre of the Mughal Empire. The city of Ajmer today is a city that is steeped in the history of the Rajputs and Mughals who have left their mark on the city over the centuries.
Following the Footsteps of the Mughals
The relationship between Ajmer and the Mughals is one of the most interesting periods of the city's history. The city was visited by emperors like Akbar, Jahangir and Shah Jahan regularly due to the shrine of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. It was also an important city during the Mughal period as Akbar is said to have visited the shrine on foot.
The Perfect Ajmer and Pushkar Combination
The most prominent advantage of Ajmer is that it is located just 14 km away from Pushkar. In the morning, the travellers can visit the historical sites of Ajmer, and in the evening, they can visit the ghats, Brahma Temple and Pushkar Lake. This is one of the rare places that has two great pilgrimage experiences in such proximity.
Scenic Views Beyond the Pilgrimage Sites
Many people visit Ajmer for spiritual purposes, but the city is also known for its beauty and peaceful atmosphere. The town is also a popular tourist destination, as it offers visitors a chance to experience its beautiful scenery and a relaxed atmosphere. The waterfront at Ana Sagar Lake is calm and serene, and one can enjoy boating and strolls in the evening; and the surrounding Aravalli Hills have a different face than the deserts of Rajasthan.
What Is Special About Ajmer?
The majority of the Ajmer holiday packages are based on the Sharif Dargah of Ajmer and the most important attractions of the city. But, the city comes alive when you take time to immerse yourself in its spiritual beliefs, historic sites and local culture.
The uniqueness of Ajmer over other places in Rajasthan is:
The Ajmer Sharif Dargah Experience
The trip to the shrine is as memorable as the shrine. The visitors enter through Nizam Gate, Shahjahani Gate and Akbari Mosque and then move towards the tomb of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. The experience is rich in the city's identity, as seen in the Qawwali music, langar traditions, and the continuous stream of pilgrims.
View from Taragarh Fort
Taragarh Fort is located at a height of the city and provides some of the finest panoramic views in Ajmer. The historic Rajput fortification is famous for its large gateways, location on the hilltop and military architecture. It is also one of the best places to learn about the city's strategic importance in history and to do photography.
Evenings at Ana Sagar Lake
Ana Sagar Lake is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Ajmer. People visit this area for boating, for walking along the water and for watching the sunset over the water. The Mughal era marble pavilions and the adjoining Daulat Bagh gardens are especially nice for a leisurely evening.
A Blend of Architectural Styles
Ajmer's monuments showcase centuries of architectural evolution. Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra features complex carvings and early Indo-Islamic architecture, and Akbari Fort and Museum hold sculptures, weapons, coins, miniature paintings, and archaeological artefacts to recount the history of the area.
A Destination for Multiple Faiths
Not many Indian cities are as attractive to people of various religions as Ajmer is. In addition to the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, there are also the gold-plated Jain displays at Soniji Ki Nasiyan and the modern pilgrimage centre Nareli Jain Temple set in a picturesque landscape. The multi-faith character of this city makes it a unique city on India's spiritual map.
Food, Markets, and Local Culture
No visit to Ajmer is complete without tasting the local cuisine and markets. Common food items are dal baati churma, laal maas, kachori, kadhi kachori, malpua, rabri and sohan halwa. Visitors can explore the old city and Dargah area and enjoy the local culture of the city by shopping for handicrafts, silver jewellery, traditional textiles, mojaris, lac bangles, marble items and Sufi memorabilia.
The Ajmer Experience
The culture, history, and spirituality of Ajmer are unique and not found in many places in Rajasthan. The city offers experiences for visitors of all interests, whether they are making a pilgrimage, exploring heritage, or taking a short trip.
These are some of the essential experiences to have in Ajmer:
Ajmer Sharif Dargah
The most famous attraction in the city, Ajmer Sharif Dargah is the resting place of the revered Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. The shrine is visited by pilgrims from all over India and the world throughout the year. It is a complex comprising of Nizam Gate, Shahjahani Gate, Akbari Mosque, and is famous for qawwali and langar traditions.
Taragarh Fort
Taragarh Fort is located at the top of the city and is surrounded by the Aravalli hills with a panoramic view of Ajmer. It is one of the oldest forts associated with the rule of the Rajputs, with its massive gateways, historic fortifications and excellent viewpoints. History lovers and photographers love the fort.
Ana Sagar Lake
Ana Sagar Lake, built in the 12th century, is one of Ajmer's most popular tourist attractions. People visit here for relaxing waterfront strolls, boating and watching sunsets over the water. Marble pavilions of the Mughal era and the beautiful Daulat Bagh gardens are also located on the lakefront.
Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra
Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra is one of the oldest surviving examples of Indo-Islamic architecture in India, and is famous for its intricate stone carvings and magnificent arches. The monument is an interesting insight into early architecture and is one of the city's most photographed heritage sites.
Fort and Museum Akbari
This is an old fort constructed by the Emperor Akbar and is now a museum of the Rajput and Mughal heritage. The visitors can see a collection of sculptures, weapons, coins, miniature paintings and archaeological artefacts which help to narrate the story of the past of Ajmer.
Soniji Ki Nasiyan
Soniji Ki Nasiyan, often called the Red Temple, is one of Ajmer's most striking attractions. The Jain temple is renowned for its intricate and beautiful depiction of the Jain cosmology, which is a unique feature for both architecture enthusiasts and Jain devotees.
Planning For Ajmer Trip
Ajmer is a compact city, and most major attractions can be covered comfortably in a short visit. Since many travellers also combine Ajmer with Pushkar, planning your itinerary in advance helps you make the most of your time. Here is how you can plan:
3-Day Itinerary
The following is a recommended three-day tour to Ajmer:
Day 1: Spiritual Circuit
- Visit to Dargah of Ajmer Sharif.
- Explore the Nizam Gate, Shahjahani Gate and Akbari Mosque.
- Take time to enjoy the spiritual ambiance of the shrine.
Day 2: Heritage and History
- Enjoy a scenic view of the city from Taragarh Fort.
- Visit Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra and its amazing architecture.
- Visit Akbari Fort and Museum to see historical artefacts.
Day 3: Lakes and Nearby Attractions
- Have a morning at Ana Sagar Lake and Daulat Bagh gardens.
- Visit to Soniji Ki Nasiyan and Nareli Jain Temple.
- Make a short visit to Pushkar to visit Pushkar Lake and the Brahma Temple.
How to Reach Ajmer
- Kishangarh Airport is the closest airport to Ajmer.
- Ajmer Junction is a major railway station and is directly connected to Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Jodhpur and Udaipur.
- Ajmer is easily accessible by road from Jaipur, Delhi, Jodhpur and Udaipur and can be added to a Rajasthan tour package.
Getting Around the City
- Short distance auto rickshaws.
- City sightseeing taxi service.
- Day trips to Pushkar and other local sights in private cars.
Budget
The cost of your trip will depend on what you choose to do, how you get there and where you stay. People opt for Ajmer and Pushkar tour packages which include accommodation, local transfers and sightseeing, making their travel budget more manageable.
What to Carry
- Comfortable walking shoes.
- Light cotton clothing.
- A refillable water bottle.
- Small denomination cash.
- Sun protection, including sunglasses or hat.
Best Time to Visit Ajmer
October to March is the ideal time to visit Ajmer as the weather is conducive to sightseeing, visiting religious sites and exploring the surrounding areas such as Pushkar. This time is especially favored by the pilgrims who visit Ajmer Sharif Dargah and tourists who want to experience the city's lakes, historical sites and cultural activities in the absence of extreme summer heat.
To help you decide the best time to visit Ajmer, refer to the table below that compares each season:
| Season | Months | Pros | Cons |
| Winter (Peak) |
October to March |
Optimum weather for sightseeing. Perfect for Ajmer and Pushkar tour packages. Comfortable pilgrimage tours. |
Higher tourist crowds. Busy attractions during peak season. |
| Urs Festival Period |
Varies annually |
Biggest spiritual event in Ajmer. Unique cultural and religious atmosphere. |
Large number of visitors. Increased need for lodging. |
| Monsoon |
July to September |
Green landscapes of the Aravalli Hills. Pleasant scenery around lake areas. |
Sightseeing can be impacted by periodic rain. |
| Summer |
April to June |
Fewer tourists. Less crowded attractions. |
Hot daytime temperatures. |
Things to Know Before You Go
It’s good for first-time visitors to Ajmer to know the layout of the Dargah area, the attractions around it and the best time to explore the city. Things to consider before booking Ajmer tour packages:
- Plan ahead when visiting the Dargah: Ajmer Sharif Dargah is a popular destination for devotees to visit, especially during the Urs Festival. If you are travelling during this time, make reservations for your accommodation and travel early.
- Merge Pushkar and Ajmer trips: Pushkar is located just a short drive from Ajmer, making it an ideal addition to your itinerary. The majority of the tourists opt to book the Ajmer and Pushkar tour packages together to get the best out of their tour.
- Visit popular places in early mornings: Many popular places like Taragarh Fort, Ana Sagar Lake, Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra, etc. are best visited in the early morning hours of the day, especially outside the winter season.
- Heavy pedestrian traffic at the old city and Dargah area: The old city and area around the Dargah are busy areas throughout the year. Leave some time to spare for local sightseeing.
- If you are a first timer, Ajmer tour packages are an excellent option: If you are interested in visiting the religious, historical, and cultural sites in the city, but you are not interested in planning the entire trip and handling all the arrangements, you can take the help of tour packages.
Plan Your Ajmer Trip with EaseMyTrip
This is one of the most unique places to visit in Rajasthan, as all the spiritual places, the Rajput history, Mughal heritage, scenic lakes and the Pushkar nearby are all there in Ajmer. When you are well planned, you can easily visit all of its essentials and have a hassle-free travel experience.
At EaseMyTrip, we ensure that our guests have a perfect getaway to Ajmer with our well-planned tour packages, ease of travel and comfortable accommodation. Whether it's a pilgrimage, sightseeing, or an Ajmer-Pushkar holiday, you can find it all here without any hidden fees or charges.
Explore our current Ajmer Tour Packages and book your desired travel date before it's too late during peak travel seasons.