Top Tourist Places to Visit in Ajmer: A Complete Travel Guide

Ajmer, located in the heart of Rajasthan, is a city that beautifully blends spirituality, history, and culture. Exploring the top tourist places to visit in Ajmer offers a journey into India’s diverse heritage, Mughal architecture, and Rajput traditions. Known for the revered Ajmer Sharif Dargah, the city attracts millions of pilgrims every year. Beyond its spiritual aura, Ajmer is surrounded by scenic lakes, historic forts, and vibrant bazaars that make it a fascinating destination for travelers. 

This guide highlights Ajmer’s most iconic attractions, hidden gems, cultural highlights, and travel tips to help you plan a memorable trip.

1. Ajmer Sharif Dargah

• Significance: The shrine of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, a revered Sufi saint.
• Highlights: Intricate Mughal architecture, silver doors, and spiritual qawwalis.
• Experience: Pilgrims from all faiths visit to seek blessings, making it one of India’s most inclusive spiritual sites.

2. Ana Sagar Lake

• History: Built by Anaji Chauhan in the 12th century.
• Highlights: Scenic boating, marble pavilions, and gardens.
• Experience: A serene retreat offering panoramic views of Ajmer city.

3. Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra

• Significance: A mosque built in just two and a half days, according to legend.
• Architecture: Blend of Indo‑Islamic styles with intricate arches and pillars.
• Experience: A historic monument reflecting Ajmer’s medieval heritage.

4. Taragarh Fort

• History: Built in the 8th century by the Chauhan dynasty.
• Highlights: Massive gateways, battlements, and panoramic views of Ajmer.
• Experience: Ideal for history buffs and trekking enthusiasts.

5. Akbari Fort & Museum

• Significance: Once the residence of Emperor Akbar.
• Highlights: Houses rare artifacts, Mughal paintings, and Rajput weaponry.
• Experience: A cultural hub showcasing Ajmer’s Mughal‑Rajput legacy.

6. Nareli Jain Temple

• Architecture: Modern temple with intricate marble carvings.
• Highlights: Blend of contemporary and traditional Jain styles.
• Experience: A peaceful spiritual retreat on the outskirts of Ajmer.

7. Sai Baba Temple

• Significance: Dedicated to Shirdi Sai Baba.
• Highlights: Spiritual ambiance and daily aarti.
• Experience: A popular pilgrimage site for devotees.

8. Foy Sagar Lake

• History: Artificial lake built in 1892 to combat famine.
• Highlights: Picturesque sunsets and birdwatching.
• Experience: A tranquil spot for nature lovers.

9. Mayo College

• Significance: One of India’s oldest boarding schools, established in 1875.
• Highlights: Indo‑Saracenic architecture and museum showcasing artifacts.
• Experience: A heritage institution reflecting colonial history.

10. Ajmer Government Museum

• Location: Inside Akbari Fort.
• Highlights: Sculptures, inscriptions, and coins from different eras.
• Experience: A treasure trove for history enthusiasts.

11. Shopping in Ajmer

• Markets: Naya Bazaar, Madar Gate, and Dargah Bazaar.
• Highlights: Traditional Rajasthani handicrafts, silver jewelry, and embroidered textiles.
• Experience: Perfect for cultural souvenirs and local flavors.

12. Nearby Attractions

a) Pushkar (11 km from Ajmer)

• Famous for the Brahma Temple and Pushkar Lake.
• Hosts the world‑renowned Pushkar Camel Fair.

b) Kishangarh (30 km from Ajmer)

• Known for miniature paintings and marble industry.
• Features the scenic Gundalao Lake.

13. Suggested Itineraries

2‑Day Spiritual Circuit

• Day 1: Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra, Ana Sagar Lake.
• Day 2: Nareli Jain Temple, Sai Baba Temple, Foy Sagar Lake.

3‑Day Heritage & Culture Circuit

• Day 1: Taragarh Fort, Akbari Fort & Museum.
• Day 2: Mayo College, Ajmer Government Museum.
• Day 3: Shopping in Ajmer, excursion to Pushkar.

5‑Day Extended Circuit

• Day 1–2: Explore Ajmer’s spiritual and heritage sites.
• Day 3: Pushkar temples and lake.
• Day 4: Kishangarh art and marble industry.
• Day 5: Relax at Ana Sagar and Foy Sagar lakes.

14. Best Time to Visit Ajmer

• October–March: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing.
• April–June: Hot, but suitable for temple visits.
• July–September: Monsoon greenery, though outdoor activities may be limited.
• Special Events: Urs Festival at Ajmer Sharif Dargah and Pushkar Camel Fair nearby.

15. Travel Tips

• Clothing: Modest attire for temple and dargah visits; cotton in summer, woolens in winter.
• Transport: Ajmer is well‑connected by rail and road; nearest airport is Kishangarh.
• Accommodation: Options range from budget hotels to heritage havelis.
• Local Etiquette: Respect religious sentiments, avoid littering, and participate mindfully in rituals.

Conclusion

The top tourist places to visit in Ajmer offer a blend of spirituality, history, and culture. From the revered Ajmer Sharif Dargah to the serene Ana Sagar Lake, from the grandeur of Taragarh Fort to the modern elegance of Nareli Jain Temple, Ajmer promises timeless experiences.

Whether you are a pilgrim seeking blessings, a history enthusiast exploring forts and museums, or a traveler enjoying lakes and bazaars, Ajmer has something for everyone. With its proximity to Pushkar and Kishangarh, the city serves as a gateway to Rajasthan’s rich heritage.

Choosing Ajmer as your travel destination ensures a journey that is both spiritually uplifting and culturally enriching.