Things to do in Ajmer

Ajmer Sharif Dargah

• 1

  Tagged as one of the holiest sites in India, Dargah Ajmer Sharif is dedicated to the Sufi saint, Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti.

• 2

  The courtyard, where the gold-plated marble tomb resides, is accessible through pure silver doors covered in intricate carvings.

• 3

  Following the secular preachings of the saint, this spiritual landmark welcomes everyone, regardless of their faith or religion.

• 4

  As a way to seek blessings and guidance, and pay their respects, devotees are seen offering a chadar to the shrine.

• 5

  Timings: Summer: 04:00 am to 10:00 pm | Winter: 05:00 am to 10:00 pm

Other Sacred Sites in Ajmer

• 1

  Dargah Hazrat Meeran Syed Hussain Khigsawar Mashhadi: Set atop Taragarh hill, this is home to the shrine of Meeran Syed Hussain, a military governor and an Imami martyr. Timings: 05:00 am to 09:00 pm

• 2

  Sai Baba Temple: Popular for its stunning marble carvings and structure, this temple features manicured gardens and peaceful prayer halls. Timings: 06:00 am to 09:00 pm

• 3

  Soni Ji Ki Nasiya Jain Temple: Often referred to as Ajmer Jain Temple or Golden Temple, this holy spot is dedicated to the first Tirthankara (a saint who creates paths for others to follow in Jainism), Lord Rishabhanatha. This temple is home to a life-sized model of Swarna Nagri, city of gold. Timings: 05:30 am to 11:30 am and 05:30 pm to 08:30 pm

• 4

  Nareli Gyanodaya Digambar Jain Temple: A fairly new Jain temple on the city outskirts, this religious site is home to the idol of Guru Adinath Ji and boasts beautiful, intricate stone carvings. Timings: 06:00 am to 08:30 pm

• 5

  ISKCON, Ajmer: Dedicated to Sri Sri Radha Madhava, this temple promotes the principles of Bhagvat Gita and is a hub of the spiritually uplifting Hare Krishna movement. Timings: 04:30 am to 09:00 pm

Must-visit Attractions in Ajmer

• 1

  Ana Sagar Lake: One of the oldest artificial lakes, popular for its marble pavilions, spectacular sunsets, and surrounding serenity.

• 2

  Adhai Din Ka Jhopra: An architectural marvel with intricate engravings, listed among the oldest mosques and attracting history buffs.

• 3

  Akbari Fort and Museum: Built during the reign of Emperor Akbar, now home to Mughal and Rajput artefacts, weapons, and armours.

• 4

  Daulat Bagh Garden: A Mughal-era garden with a variety of flora along Ana Sagar Lake, perfect for reconnecting with nature.

Best Areas to Stay in Ajmer

• 1

  Dargah Ajmer Sharif: This bustling area is lined with hotels of all ranges, from budget to premium, that promise quick access to the religious site.

• 2

  Ajmer Junction Railway Station: The hotels and guest houses in this area offer seamless connectivity to the transit hubs and tourist spots alike.

• 3

  Dargah Bazaar: With proximity to the railway station and local attractions, this lively area boasts hotels for all.

• 4

  Ajmer Bus Stand: Set at a short distance from the iconic landmarks, this busy area provides various hotel options for travellers.

• 5

  Anasagar Lake: Travellers can choose between the vibrant market area or the serene streets of Ajmer when booking a hotel near the lake.

Good to Know Before You Travel

• 1

  How to Reach: Kishangarh Airport (26.4 km) and Ajmer Junction (1.4 km) are the best transit options for domestic travel. The highways connect Ajmer to major cities, like Delhi, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad, making road trips a success.

• 2

  What to Buy: Look for handcrafted leather or wooden products, silver jewellery, antiques, and Rajasthani textiles in Dargah Bazaar and Naya Bazaar.

• 3

  What to Eat: Kachoris, ghewar, dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, kadhi, laas maas, and a glass of chach to gulp it all down, are a must-try for foodies.

• 4

  Urs Festival: Taking place in the Islamic month of Rajab, the six-day festival is celebrated annually on Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti’s death anniversary. Devotees visit from across the continents to offer ceremonial chadars, seek blessings, and participate in qawwali nights.