Ajmer is famous for the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, the shrine of the Sufi Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. It is a significant place of worship for Muslims and a popular pilgrimage site visited by people of all faiths. The city is also known for its historical significance and scenic beauty surrounded by the Aravalli Mountains.
The best time to visit Ajmer is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing. The Urs Festival at Ajmer Sharif Dargah, held annually, usually in the seventh month of the Islamic lunar calendar, also attracts many visitors.
Tourists can reach Ajmer by various modes of transportation. The city is well-connected by rail and road. The Ajmer Junction railway station is a major station in the region. Ajmer is also connected by national highways, making it accessible by bus or car. The closest airport is Kishangarh Airport, located approximately 30 km away, and Jaipur International Airport, which is about 135 km from Ajmer.
Popular tourist attractions in Ajmer include the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra, Ana Sagar Lake, Akbar's Palace and Museum, Taragarh Fort, and Soniji Ki Nasiyan (Jain Temple).
Ajmer offers a range of accommodation options for tourists, from luxury hotels to budget lodges. Visitors can choose to stay near the Dargah area for easy access to the shrine or opt for quieter spots further away from the city center.
Yes, vegetarian food is widely available in Ajmer. The city has a diverse cuisine, and numerous dining establishments, including street food vendors, cafes, and restaurants, offer a variety of vegetarian options.
Ajmer has several local markets and shopping areas where tourists can buy souvenirs, traditional Rajasthani clothes, costume jewelry, and religious artifacts. Popular markets include the Naya Bazaar, Mahila Mandi, and Dargah Bazaar.
Yes, non-Muslims are welcome to visit the Ajmer Sharif Dargah. Visitors of all faiths come to pay their respects at the shrine; however, it is important to dress modestly and follow the norms of the shrine out of respect for the religious site.
The Urs Festival in Ajmer commemorates the death anniversary of the Sufi Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. It is marked by a six-day-long celebration, attracting pilgrims from across the world, who come to offer their prayers and seek blessings. The festival features qawwalis (Sufi devotional music), religious ceremonies, and a bustling fair.
Tourists visiting Ajmer can also explore nearby destinations such as Pushkar, known for the Brahma Temple and the annual Pushkar Camel Fair; the city of Kishangarh, famous for miniature paintings and the Kishangarh Fort; and Jaipur, the Pink City of India, which is known for its rich history and architecture.