Ajmer, nestled amidst the Aravalli ranges in Rajasthan, is a city that seamlessly blends spirituality, history, and natural beauty. It is a place where Sufi saints, Mughal emperors, Rajput kings, and pilgrims have left their mark over centuries. If you are planning a Rajasthan trip, here are the top tourist places to visit in Ajmer that will make your journey truly memorable.
1. Ajmer Sharif Dargah
No visit to Ajmer is complete without paying your respects at the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, the resting place of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, a revered Sufi saint. This holy shrine attracts millions of devotees every year, regardless of religion. The Dargah complex has beautiful Mughal architecture, marble courtyards, and mosques built by emperors Akbar and Shah Jahan. The spiritual aura here is deeply calming.
2. Ana Sagar Lake
Among the top tourist places to visit in Ajmer, Ana Sagar Lake is a serene and picturesque spot. Built in the 12th century by Anaji Chauhan, this artificial lake offers boating facilities and a peaceful promenade. The adjoining Daulat Bagh, built by Emperor Jahangir, is a beautiful garden to relax in the evenings, enjoying stunning sunsets over the lake.
3. Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra
This ancient mosque is an architectural marvel in Ajmer. Originally a Sanskrit college built in the 12th century, it was converted into a mosque by Qutub-ud-Din Aibak. The name Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra, meaning ‘shed of two and a half days’, comes from the legend that it was constructed within that time frame. Its intricately carved arches and pillars showcase Indo-Islamic architecture at its best.
4. Taragarh Fort
Perched on a hill overlooking Ajmer, Taragarh Fort is one of the oldest hill forts in India. Built in the 8th century by King Ajaypal Chauhan, it offers panoramic views of Ajmer city and the Aravalli ranges. Though mostly in ruins today, its massive gateways, water reservoirs, and battlements reflect its historic grandeur and strategic importance.
5. Akbari Fort and Museum
Located in the heart of Ajmer, Akbari Fort and Museum was built by Emperor Akbar in 1570 as his royal residence. Today, it houses the Government Museum with a rich collection of Mughal and Rajput armoury, miniature paintings, sculptures, and artefacts that narrate the region’s vibrant history. It is one of the top tourist places to visit in Ajmer for history enthusiasts.
6. Nareli Jain Temple
Located about 7 km from Ajmer, Nareli Jain Temple is a modern architectural gem. Built with marble, it has intricate stone carvings and beautiful statues representing Jain Tirthankaras. The temple complex is peaceful and ideal for meditation, while its elevated location offers stunning views of Ajmer city and the surrounding hills.
7. Sai Baba Temple
The Sai Baba Temple in Ajmer is a beautiful shrine dedicated to Shirdi Sai Baba, attracting devotees from across Rajasthan. Built entirely in marble, the temple has a calm ambience perfect for prayer and reflection. It is among the top spiritual places to visit in Ajmer on your trip.
8. Mayo College
One of India’s oldest public schools, Mayo College, is worth visiting for its colonial-era architecture and grand campus. Established in 1875 by the British for the sons of Rajput aristocracy, it is also known as the ‘Eton of the East’. Visitors can admire its museum, built within the school, which houses an impressive collection of artefacts, armoury, and art.
9. Daulat Bagh
Situated near Ana Sagar Lake, Daulat Bagh is a beautiful garden built by Emperor Jahangir. It is an ideal place to relax amidst lush greenery and fountains, especially in the evenings when the lake reflects the changing colours of the sky. Locals and tourists frequent this spot for morning walks and leisure time.
10. Prithviraj Smarak
For history lovers, Prithviraj Smarak is a must-visit memorial dedicated to the legendary Rajput king Prithviraj Chauhan. Located on Taragarh Road, it has a statue of the king on horseback, overlooking Ajmer city. The place offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the valorous history of Rajasthan.
Best Time to Visit Ajmer
The ideal time to explore the top tourist places to visit in Ajmer is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and temple visits. The Urs festival at Ajmer Sharif Dargah, held in the Islamic month of Rajab (varies yearly), is also a significant event attracting pilgrims globally.
How to Reach Ajmer
- By Air: The nearest airport is Kishangarh (30 km) and Jaipur International Airport (135 km).
- By Train: Ajmer Junction is well connected to Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, and other major cities.
- By Road: State-run and private buses connect Ajmer to Jaipur, Delhi, Udaipur, and Jodhpur.
Final Thoughts
These top tourist places to visit in Ajmer offer a perfect blend of spirituality, history, architecture, and nature, making your Rajasthan trip truly memorable. Whether you seek blessings at Ajmer Sharif Dargah, explore ancient forts, or relax by Ana Sagar Lake, Ajmer will leave you with experiences that touch your soul and enrich your travel memories.
