Ajmer is a less-known jewel of Rajasthan, a city that has stood the test of time by retaining its spirituality, history, and natural beauty. Nestled in the Aravalli Mountains, the top tourist places in Ajmer offer an interesting blend of religious significance, magnificent architecture, and breathtaking landscapes. Its eventful Mughal past and the attendant religious importance as well have made Ajmer a travel destination for explorers around the world to experience its holy sights, huge forts, and tranquil atmosphere. Whether you are a pilgrim, a history buff, or an adventure enthusiast, Ajmer holds something special for everyone.
Let’s delve into the heart of Rajasthan and discover what makes this city so enchanting.
Why Visit Ajmer?
Ajmer is much more than just a tourist destination; it’s a spiritual and cultural experience. The city attracts millions of visitors every year for several reasons:
- Religious Significance – Home to sacred shrines and temples.
- Historical Heritage – Mughal and Rajasthan architecture.
- Natural Beauty – Lakes and mountain views.
- Cultural Richness – Traditional festivals and customs.
Top Tourist Places in Ajmer
1. Ajmer Sharif Dargah
The Ajmer Sharif Dargah, dedicated to the renowned saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, which is one of the top tourist places in Ajmer. It holds spiritual significance, possesses considerable historical importance, and is considered significant for one’s life journey.
Highlights:
- 13th-century Mughal architecture
- Intricate marble work and decorative calligraphy
- Peaceful spiritual atmosphere
- Accommodation available for pilgrims
Best Time to Visit: October–March
2. Pushkar Lake & Brahma Temple
Located approximately 16 km from Ajmer, Pushkar is a sacred pilgrimage site, making it one of the must-visit places in Ajmer for spiritual seekers. It is home to the only temple in the world dedicated to Lord Brahma. Pushkar is famous for its annual camel fair and Pushkar Lake, and is also known for its spiritual atmosphere, desert safaris, and vibrant local markets. There are also many other attractions worth seeing and photographing.
Highlights:
- LAKE: 52 bathing ghat, sacred Hindu site
- The Brahma temple: the only major temple dedicated to Lord Brahma
- Best for: photography, spiritual tourism
- Visiting Hours: 5 am to 9 pm
The pristine waters and surrounding temples create an otherworldly spiritual environment perfect for meditation and reflection.
3. Taragarh Fort (Star Fort)
Taragarh Fort, also known as the “Star Fort,” is famous for its star-shaped design. From this fort, one can enjoy panoramic views of the city, Ana Sagar Lake, and the surrounding landscape. Its notable features include its magnificent gates, water reservoirs, the Rani Mahal palace complex, and the shrine of Hazrat Miran Syed Hussain Asgar Khangswar.
Highlights:
- Construction Period – 13th century
- Architecture – Strategic fortification design
- Activities – Trekking, photography, panoramic views
- Entry Fee – Minimal (check current rates)
- Duration – 2–3 hours recommended
4. Ana Sagar Lake
Ana Sagar Lake in Ajmer is a historical artificial lake, built in the 12th century by Arno Raj Chauhan. This 13-kilometer-long lake is surrounded by parks and notable landmarks, including the Daulat Bagh Garden and the Baradari pavilions built by the Mughal emperors. The lake is a popular spot for activities such as boating, birdwatching, and sunset viewing, and there is no entry fee.
Highlights:
- Scenic boat rides available
- Five pavilions along the shore (Daulat Bagh)
- Ideal for sunset viewing
- Family-friendly atmosphere
5. Nasiyan Temple (Lal Mandir)
The Nasiyan Temple in Ajmer, also known as the Red Temple or Soniji Ki Nasiyan, is a Jain temple. It is dedicated to the first Jain Tirthankara, Lord Rishabhadeva (Adinath). It is famous for its museum hall, called Swarna Nagari (“City of Gold”), which houses gold-plated wooden figures depicting scenes from the life of Lord Adinath and Jain mythology. The temple is an architecturally rich structure built of red sandstone, featuring a grand gateway and a two-story building that houses both the place of worship and the museum.
Highlights:
- Two-story marble structure
- Golden decorations
- Religious and architectural significance
- Located in the old city
6. Adhai Din Ka Jhopra
This is one of the oldest mosques in India, famous for the story that it was built in just two and a half days. An architectural marvel, the Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra is a unique blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture and one of the must-see tourist places in Ajmer.
Highlights:
- Originally a Sanskrit college (12th century
- Converted into a mosque by Mohammad of Ghor
- Notable for its intricate carved columns
- UNESCO significance in Indian heritage
7. Foy Sagar Lake
Foy Sagar Lake, now known as Varun Sagar Lake, is an artificial lake built during the British era in 1892.
It is a popular tourist spot known for its tranquil atmosphere, beautiful views of the Aravalli mountains, and picnic opportunities. Recently, its name was changed to Varun Sagar Lake, taking into account religious and social sentiments.
Highlights:
- Scenic landscape photography
- Walking trails
- Picnic spots
- Best visited during the monsoon
8. Ajmer Government Museum
Located near the Jama Masjid, this museum preserves Ajmer’s cultural heritage with artifacts dating back centuries.
During British rule, it was known as the Rajputana Museum, and it now houses a collection of Mughal and Rajput armor and sculptures. The museum displays a magnificent collection of coins, sculptures, miniature paintings, and antique weapons, offering profound insights into Ajmer’s historical and cultural past.
Festivals & Events in Ajmer
Ajmer’s cultural calendar is full of celebrations that attract visitors from all over the world:
| Festival | Time | Significance |
| Holi | March | Festival of colors |
| Diwali | October–November | Festival of lights |
| Pushkar Fair | Novembner | Livestock fair & cultural celebration |
| Urs Festival | December | Moinuddin Chishti’s death anniversary |
Travel Tips for Exploring Top Tourist Places in Ajmer
Best Time to Visit
The weather from October to March is ideal for visiting the best places to see in Ajmer. During the summer months, the temperature can reach up to 45°C, making sightseeing difficult.
How to Reach
- By Air – After landing at Jaipur Airport, you can travel to Ajmer, which is 135 km away.
- By Train – You can also take the train, which is well-connected to Ajmer Railway Station.
- By Road – Regular buses run from major cities.
Accommodation Options
- Budget hotels and guesthouses are available.
- Mid-range hotels are also available.
- If you’re looking for a luxury resort, you’ll find luxury resorts near Pushkar as well.
- You will also get pilgrim shelters (dharamshalas) here.
Local Transportation
- Auto-rickshaws for short distances
- Taxi services for day tours
- Bicycle rentals for exploration
Food & Local Cuisine
Experience authentic Rajasthani flavors while visiting top tourist places in Ajmer:
- Dal Baati Churma – Traditional Rajasthani meal
- Gatte Ki Sabzi – Gram flour dumplings curry
- Bajra Roti – Millet bread
- Pyaaz Ki Kachumberi – Onion salad
- Rabri – Sweet dessert
FAQs
Q: Is Ajmer safe for solo travelers? A. Yes, Ajmer is a perfectly safe place for solo travelers and families alike. It’s a safe and welcoming city for tourists; you just need to be wary of pickpockets.
Q: What’s the best season for visiting top tourist places in Ajmer? A.The best time to visit Ajmer is from October to March because the weather is pleasant and cool during this period, whereas in the summer, the temperature is very high, which can make sightseeing difficult.
Q: How many days are needed to explore Ajmer? A.Two to three days are sufficient to see the main attractions of Ajmer.
Conclusion
Ajmer truly deserves its reputation as the heart of Rajasthan. From the spiritual serenity of Ajmer Sharif Dargah to the natural beauty of Pushkar Lake, the top tourist places in Ajmer offer unforgettable experiences. Whether you want to seek divine blessings, explore history, or simply spend peaceful moments amidst nature, this beautiful city welcomes you with open arms. Plan your trip to Ajmer today and get lost in the magic of Rajasthan.
