About Ajmer

Ajmer is a lively city situated 130 km southwest of Jaipur and near the pilgrimage town of Pushkar. Its name, “Ajay Meru,” means “invincible hill.” The city showcases a rich blend of Indian culture and traditions, where various religions, communities, and cultures coexist peacefully. Ajmer is well-known for its religious importance, drawing both Hindus and Muslims. The Dargah Sharif of Sufi Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti is a famous pilgrimage site visited by people from all over the world, regardless of their faith. The city is surrounded by the picturesque Ana Sagar Lake and the Aravalli Hills. In addition to the Dargah, Ajmer boasts stunning Jain temples, including a magnificent golden temple.

Historically, Ajmer was founded by Raja Ajaypal Chauhan in the 7th century AD and remained an important center for the Chauhan Dynasty until the 12th century. The dynasty built India’s first hill fort, Taragarh, which is still a popular tourist spot. Over the centuries, Ajmer was ruled by various dynasties, including the Mughals, who were attracted to the city because of the Dargah Sharif. Ajmer also witnessed significant historical events, such as the meeting between Mughal King Jahangir and Sir Thomas Roe, the Ambassador of King James I of England, in 1616. Later, Ajmer came under British control, becoming the only part of Rajputana directly administered by the British East India Company.

In the surrounding region, agriculture is the main occupation, with key crops including corn (maize), wheat, millet, gram (chickpeas), barley, cotton, oilseeds, chilies, and onions. The area also has cotton, textile, and hosiery mills, along with cotton-ginning and cotton-pressing factories. Additionally, deposits of mica, feldspar, and building stones are mined.

Places to visit

Explore Ajmer’s spiritual richness at Ajmer Sharif Dargah, a revered shrine for people of all faiths. Enjoy serene moments at Ana Sagar Lake, known for its stunning sunsets and boating options. Discover historical marvels like Adhai Din ka Jhopra, showcasing unique Indo-Islamic architecture, and delve into cultural heritage at Akbar’s Palace and Soniji Ki Nasiyan Jain Temple.

Ajmer Sharif

Ajmer Sharif Dargah, also known as Ajmer Dargah, is a revered shrine in India, honored by people of all faiths. It houses the tomb of Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chishti, a renowned Sufi saint known for his compassion towards the poor and marginalized. Built by Mughal Emperor Humayun, the Dargah showcases splendid Mughal architecture, including structures like Nizam Gate, Buland Darwaza, and several mosques and courtyards.

Ana Sagar Lake

Ana Sagar Lake, situated in Ajmer, Rajasthan, is a picturesque artificial lake renowned for its stunning sunsets. Surrounded by Daulat Bagh Gardens and the Khobra Behroon temple, it offers breathtaking views best captured with a camera. Visitors enjoy boating and water scooter rides on this 12-kilometer lake, although it tends to dry up during the summer months.

Adhai Din ka Jhopra

Adhai Din ka Jhopra, a mosque in Ajmer, dates back to 1199 AD and is attributed to Sultan Qutub-ud-Din-Aibak. Legend has it that it was constructed in just two and a half days, incorporating remnants of Hindu and Jain temples. Despite the ruins, it remains a place of worship with arched screens, minarets, and intricate pillars, showcasing unique Indo-Islamic architecture.

Akbar's Palace

Akbar’s Palace, built in 1570 AD, serves as a museum in Ajmer displaying ancient military weapons, sculptures, paintings, and artifacts from the Mughal era. It provides insights into the lifestyles and warfare styles of the Rajput and Mughal periods, featuring notable attractions like a large black marble statue of Goddess Kali.

Ajmer Jain Temple

Soniji Ki Nasiyan, also known as Ajmer Jain Temple, is a Digambar Jain temple dedicated to Lord Rishabhdev. Constructed from red sandstone, it is renowned for its Swarna Nagari (City of Gold) chamber adorned with gold-plated wooden figures depicting Jainism’s historical figures. Only Jains are permitted in the main temple to conduct their rituals.

Kishangarh City

Kishangarh, known as the marble city of India, is located 30 kilometers from Ajmer. Famous for its art and culture, especially the Bani Thani style of painting, it houses attractions like Kishangarh Fort, Phool Mahal Palace, and the unique Khoda Ganesh Ji temple with its nine planets.

Hotels in Ajmer

Discover a range of accommodations in Ajmer offering comfortable amenities such as Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and mini-fridges. Whether you prefer casual rooms with modern decor or upscale suites with extra seating areas, these hotels ensure a pleasant stay with 24/7 room service and various other conveniences.

Hotel Ajmer Inn

Warm, understated rooms feature Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs and minifridges, as well as tea and coffee making facilities.

₹2,063

3 Star Hotel

Regenta Inn Embassy

The casual rooms come with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and minifridges. Upgraded rooms add sleek decor, while plush high-end suites features.

₹1,753

3 Star Hotel

Hotel LN Courtyard

Hotel LN Courtyard is a great choice for travellers looking for a 4 star hotel in Ajmer. This Hotel stands out as one of the highly recommended in Ajmer. 

₹2,517

4 Star Hotel

Hotel Mansingh Palace

Relaxed rooms offer free Wi-Fi, TVs and safes, plus minibars, and tea and coffee making facilities. Upgraded rooms add flat-screens.

₹1,882

3 Star Hotel

Hotels at Ajmer Near Railway Station

Conveniently located for sightseeing and exploring Ajmer, these 3-star hotels offer functional rooms equipped with amenities like flat-screen TVs and complimentary Wi-Fi. Some rooms feature additional comforts such as sofas or balconies, ensuring a comfortable stay with options for room service.

Hotel Ajmer Regency

Hotel Ajmer Regency is a great choice for travellers looking for a 3 star star hotel in Ajmer. This Hotel stands out as one of the highly recommended hotel in Ajmer.

₹1,142

3 Star Hotel

Hotel Fortune Plaza

Hotel Fortune Plaza is a great choice for travellers looking for a 3 star star hotel in Ajmer. This Hotel stands out as one of the highly recommended hotel in Ajmer.

₹931

3 Star Hotel

Ajanta Hotel

Ajanta hotel is a great choice for travellers looking for a star hotel in Ajmer. This Hotel stands out as one of the highly recommended hotel in Ajmer.

₹521

3 Star Hotel

Hotel Samrat

Functional rooms feature TVs and complimentary Wi-Fi, in addition to en suite wet rooms with bucket baths. Some rooms have sofas and/or balconies.

₹895

3 Star Hotel

Restaurants in Ajmer

Discover diverse dining options in Ajmer, from traditional Punjabi cuisine near Ana Sagar Lake to restaurants offering a variety of world cuisines. Enjoy meals ranging from sweets and bakery items to hearty meals in this historical and religious city known for its cultural richness.

Sunny Di Hatti 'Amritsari'

Sunny Di Hatti, nestled near the serene Ana Sagar Lake in Ajmer, is a gem for aficionados of Punjabi cuisine.

₹200–400

Vrandavan Garden Restaurant

It is situated at vaishali Nagar road, in front of Regional school, near Seven wonders park. It is very near to Pushker road.

₹200–400

Kesar

We at Kesar Sweets & Restaurant provide a complete food store including world cuisine. (Sweets, Restaurant, Bakery, Cafe lounge, Icecream parlor.

₹200–400

Hotel Jamil & Restaurant

Hotel Jamil and Restaurant is situated in Historical /Religious city Ajmer. Ajmer is the city of Sufi Saint Khwaja Gharib Nawaz, Lord Bramha and Excellent Education.

₹200–400

How to Reach Ajmer

Ajmer is easily accessible through multiple modes of transport. The Ajmer Railway Station, a key junction in Rajasthan, connects the city efficiently to major cities across India. It serves as a crucial stop for various trains, including the daily Delhi-Ajmer Shatabdi, offering convenient travel options for passengers. For air travelers, Jaipur International Airport, located approximately 132 km away, is the nearest airport to Ajmer. From Jaipur, visitors can reach Ajmer via train or road transport, making it accessible for both domestic and international tourists. Ajmer also enjoys excellent road connectivity with national highways, ensuring efficient travel by buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws within the city and to neighboring towns and cities in Rajasthan.

how to reach

By Train

Ajmer Railway Station is a crucial junction in Rajasthan’s railway network, facilitating smooth connectivity with major cities across India.

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By Flight

For air travelers, Jaipur International Airport is the closest airport to Ajmer, situated about 132 km away. From Jaipur, visitors can easily reach Ajmer.

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By Road

Ajmer enjoys excellent road connectivity, thanks to its strategic location on national highways. The city is well-served by a network of buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws.

Local Transport in Ajmer

By Bus

Ajmer offers a comprehensive network of buses operated by both private companies and the government. These buses provide essential transportation for residents traveling within different parts of the city. Tourists also find these buses convenient for visiting various attractions across Ajmer.

Starting at Only 5₹/Per KM

local transport

By Cab

Cabs are a popular choice for both locals and tourists in Ajmer. You can easily book a cab online or hail one on the street. Local taxis, auto rickshaws, and cycle rickshaws are also common and provide flexible options for getting around. For a unique experience, you can hire a horse-drawn tonga on certain routes and enjoy a charming and entertaining ride through the city.

Starting at only 9₹/KM

local transport

By Auto-rikshaw

Auto rickshaws are one of the main modes of transportation in Ajmer. They are an affordable and efficient way to navigate through the city, especially to reach the internal areas. However, since they are not metered, it’s best to agree on the fare before starting your journey.

Auto-rikshaw is starting From 10-200.Rs

local transport

Renting Vehicle

If you prefer to travel at your own place, there are several companies in Ajmer offering car and bike rentals. Riding a bike from Ajmer to nearby destinations like Pushkar, surrounded by the scenic Aravalli hills, is a delightful experience you shouldn’t miss.

Starting at only ₹1499.

Best Time to Visit Ajmer

The Best Time to Visit Ajmer Is from October to March, Covering the Monsoon and Winter Seasons. During This Period, the Weather Is Pleasant, Unlike the Scorching Summer Heat from April to June. Summer Is Generally Not Recommended Unless You’re Planning to Visit During the Urs Festival in May. the Monsoon Season Transforms the City Into a Lush, Green, and Refreshing Landscape with Picturesque Surroundings.

Most of Ajmer’s Festivals, Both Religious and Cultural, Take Place in October and November. the Combination of Beautiful Weather and Vibrant Festivities Makes This Time of Year Ideal for Visiting Ajmer. During These Months, You Can Comfortably Explore the City’s Many Attractions without The Discomfort of Extreme Temperatures.

Distance of other cities from Ajmer

a large building next to a body of water

Mumbai

The Distance of Ajmer to Mumbai is (1,032.8 km) via NH 48.

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Delhi

The Distance of Ajmer to Delhi is (439.3 km) via NE 4.

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Bengalore

The Distance of Ajmer To Bangalore is (1,816.6 km) via NH 52.

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Chennai

The Distance of Ajmer to Chennai is 2,021.9 km) via NH16.

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Tips and Advice for Ajmer

When planning your trip to Ajmer, it’s crucial to book your accommodation and transportation in advance, especially during peak seasons. Ajmer attracts visitors from all over due to its religious significance and vibrant cultural heritage, so securing your bookings early ensures a hassle-free experience upon arrival.

Respect for Ajmer’s cultural heritage is paramount. Avoid any actions that could harm historical sites or monuments, as these are punishable offenses. Enjoy the city’s diverse culinary scene but prioritize hygiene when selecting where to eat. Options for cooked and hygienically prepared food to avoid any stomach discomfort that could disrupt your visit.

For safety reasons, it’s advisable to explore Ajmer in groups rather than alone, particularly when visiting less crowded areas or late in the day. Many of Ajmer’s attractions require an entry ticket, so ensure you purchase one to avoid any penalties. This approach ensures a smooth and enjoyable exploration of the city’s rich historical and spiritual sites.

FAQs About Ajmer

Ajmer is a city in central Rajasthan, northwestern India, located on the lower slopes of Taragarh Hill, with a fortress on its summit. Founded by Ajayadeva, an 11th-century Rajput ruler, Ajmer was annexed by the Delhi Sultanate's Slave dynasty in 1193.

Ajmer is famous for the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, the shrine of Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chishti, and is also a significant center for the Jain religion with its magnificent golden Jain Temple. Additionally, it is known as a learning hub.

Ajmer's ancient name was Ajaymeru, which evolved into Ajmer over time. The name also combines elements from Raja Ajaypal, the city's traditional founder, who established the fort of Taragarh.

Ajmer is famous among Muslims due to the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, one of the holiest Muslim shrines in India. It houses the tomb of Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chishti, a revered Sufi saint from Persia, and is open to people of all faiths.

Ajmer's markets are known for embroidered clothes and shoes, silver and lac jewelry, black metal showpieces, handmade jute bags, and more. Mahila Mandi is particularly popular for traditional odnis, saris, and fancy lehengas.

Ajayaraja, a great ruler of the Chauhan dynasty, established the city of Ajmer, originally known as Ajaymeru, in 1113 and made it the capital of his kingdom.

Ajmer is famous for several traditional Rajasthani dishes such as Lal Maas (spicy red meat), Safed Maas (white meat), Dal Bati Churma (lentils), Gatte Ki Khichdi, Kachoris, Shahi Gatte, Machalee Jaisamandi, and Mirchi Bada.

The famous tomb in Ajmer is the Moinuddin Chishti Tomb, located at the bottom of Taragarh Hill. It belongs to Moinuddin Chishti, a great Sufi saint from Sistan who settled in Ajmer and died there.

Akbar visited Ajmer to publicly legitimize his rule through Islamic markers of power and authority, forge alliances with local chieftains, participate in military campaigns, and consolidate imperial control over central and western India.

The Mughals captured Ajmer, taking 170 Rajput prisoners. When the Mewaris refused to pay the ransom, the prisoners were executed. Despite another relief force led by Kunwar Dai, the Mughals fought off the combined Rajput armies and successfully captured Ajmer.

Cities Around Ajmer

Jodhpur

Jodhpur is a city in the Thar Desert of the northwest Indian state of Rajasthan.

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Jaipur

Jaipur is the capital of India’s Rajasthan state.

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Bikaner

Bikaner is a city in the north Indian state of Rajasthan.

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Udaipur

Udaipur, formerly the capital of the Mewar Kingdom, is a city in the western Indian state of Rajasthan.

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