The lakeside city of Ajmer is located in central Rajasthan, and is held in great reverence by devotees of all communities who call it 'Ajmer Sharif' (Holy Ajmer). It is here that the mortal remains of the highly respected Sufi saint Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chishti lie buried.

The Khwaja came from Persia and established the Chishtia order of fakirs in India. He is popularly known as Gharib Nawaz (protector of the poor) because he dedicated his entire life to the service of mankind. His spartan life spanned almost a hundred years and he embraced death in solitude while he had withdrawn to his cell for six days, asking not to be disturbed. The Dargah Sharif in Ajmer is the place where the Saint's mortal remains lie buried and is the site of the largest Muslim fair in India. More than five lakh devotees belonging to different communities gather from all parts of the subcontinent to pay homage to the Khwaja on his Urs (death anniversary) during the first six days of Rajab (seventh month of the Islamic calendar.)

The pilgrims who come to seek the blessings of the Khwaja make rich offerings called nazrana at the holy spot where the saint has been entombed. The offerings of rose and jasmine flowers, sandalwood paste, perfumes and incense contribute to the fragrance that floats in the air inside the shrine. Also offered by devotees are the chadar, ghilaph and neema, which are votive offerings for the tomb. These are brought by devotees on their heads and handed over to the khadims inside the sanctum sanctorum. Outside the sanctum sanctorum of the dargah, professional singers called qawwals in groups and sing the praises of the saint in a characteristic high pitched voice. People gather around them and listen attentively, sometimes clapping to the rhythm of their instruments.

» Major Attractions of Ajmer

Adhai-Din-Ka Jhonpara : This is a masterpiece of Indo - Islamic architecture. As legend goes its was constructed in two and a-half days (Adhi-Din). It is a relic of an old mosque consisting of a quadrangle with a front screen wall of seven pointed arches. The distinct pillars and arched screen with its ruined minarets make it a splendid architectural masterpiece.

Ajmer-e-Sharief Dargah : At the foot of a barren hill, is situated India’s most important pilgrimage center for people from all faiths. It is the splendid tomb of the Sufi saint Khawaja Moinuddin Chisti more popularly known as Khawaja Saheb or Khawaja Sharif. The shrine is next only to Mecca or Median for the Muslims of South Asia. Emperor Akbar used to make a pilgrimage to this Dargah from Agra once a year.

Taragarh Fort : The giant fort stands guarding the city. It has six gates. The fort also has Miran Saheb ki Dargha who was the governor of the fort and laid down his life in an encounter. It gives a panoramic view of the city situated in Nagpahari of Aravalli ranges, this fort has immense archaeological and historical importance.

Ana Sagar Lake : It is an artificial lake named after Anaji Chauhan. The catchments were built with the help of local populace. The 'Baradari' pavilions was built by Shah Jahan, to facilitate his long stays in Ajmer. the Baradari and the adjoining parks are the lungs of city and favourite outing spot.

» Places to Stay in Ajmer

The RTDC has done a lot to retain the traditional flavour in its hotels in and around Ajmer. Hotels like RTDC's Khadim, come with AC Deluxe rooms as well as ordinary rooms, which give a comfortable stay in the city. There are also Sarai facilities for the pilgrims. The government sponsored paying guest scheme makes the visitor feel at home.

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» Shopping in Ajmer

While Shopping in Ajmer , one can go on a buying spree of various kinds of items representing Rajasthani culture and style. The 'Ittar' (perfume) is a major specialty of Ajmer. One can purchase here amazing old silver jewellery with designs of a totally different era.

» How to Get there

Air : The nearest airport is that of Jaipur.

Rail : The city is well connected by trains with all the major places in India.

Road : The state transport has its bus services from all over Rajasthan and also from Delhi. However, during the Urs, large number of people arriving in Ajmer, it is advisable to plan your trip in advance during this time.

Local Transport : City bus service operate in the city and to Pushkar. Unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws, tongas, and cycle-rickshaws are also available for commutation.

» Climate of Ajmer

Pretty hot in summers and becomes green with first rain as all its small mountains become green, in winters temperature is chilled.