As the name implies, it is taken from Ajay Meru, which means indomitable hills, as the region was in the past. Though it became the focal point of the Chauhan Dynasty, Mughals, and ultimately Britishers throughout time. The city is known for its stunning architecture, ancient monuments, and spiritual significance. One can try plenty of popular things to do in Ajmer, from visiting the Ajmer Sharif Dargah to exploring the forts, from sitting in the serene environment of lakes and mountains to exploring the bustling markets.
Best Things to Do in Ajmer: Revel in the Enthralling Side of the Religious City
Nestled in the foothills of the Aravalli range is a melting pot of different cultures and religions, making it a unique destination for tourists. From exploring the ancient monuments to indulging in local cuisine, Ajmer offers a range of experiences that will leave you captivated. Whether you're a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or simply someone who loves to travel, Ajmer has something for you. In this blog, you will get to know some of the best things to do in Ajmer, so you can make the most of your trip to this beautiful city. So, let's dive into the cultural extravaganza that is Ajmer.
- Take Blessings at Ajmer Sharif Dargah
- Visit the Adhai Din ka Jhopra
- Explore the Akbari Fort and Museum
- Feel the Charismatic Nature at Ana Sagar Lake
- Visit the Jain Temples
- Explore the Taragarh Fort
- Enjoy a Camel Safari
- Shopping at the Dargah Bazaar
- Attend the Urs Festival
- Visit the Only Brahma Temple at Pushkar
1. Ajmer Sharif Dargah: Seek Blessings of the Saint
Ajmer Sharif Dargah is the shrine of the famous Sufi saint Moinuddin Chishti and is among the most visited places to travel in Ajmer. It is one of the most popular pilgrimage destinations in India and attracts thousands of devotees every year. The Dargah is located in the heart of the city and is a must-visit for anyone visiting Ajmer. The devotees go to the pilgrim to seek blessings and tie the mannat ka dhaga, which is one of the most done things to do in Ajmer Sharif Dargah.
Location: 111, Dargah Sharif, Khadim Mohalla, Diggi Bazaar, Ajmer, Rajasthan 305001
Best Time to Go: October to March
Time Needed: 2-3 hours (too much crowded)
Famous For: Prayer
How to Reach: Ajmer Sharif Dargah is about 2 km away from Ajmer Town and buses and taxis are easily available.
Note: Keep your head covered, wear modest cloth, and respect the culture and tradition
2. Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra: Feel the History
Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra Ajmer is an ancient mosque that dates back to the 12th century. The mosque is known for its unique architecture and intricate carvings. The mosque is located near the Dargah and can be easily visited on foot. Imagine exploring such a construction built only in 2 and a half days, which itself amidst the amazing things to do in Rajasthan.
Location: FJ4G+33J, Ander Kote Rd, Lakhan Kothri, Ajmer, Rajasthan 305001
Best Time to Go: October to March
Opening Hours: 6 am to 7 pm
Time Needed: 30 mins
Famous For: Architecture
How to Reach: Easily accessible via NH58 and Nala Bazar Rd (2.4 km)
Suggested Read: Things to do in Jaipur: A Perfect Way to Experience India's Vibrant Culture
3. Akbari Fort and Museum: Chance to Explore the Past
Akbari Fort and Museum is a historic fort in the city's heart. The fort was built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century and is now a museum that showcases the history and culture of Ajmer. Earlier it used to be the house for the Mughal Royals and their troops, but now it works as Government. Museum. You may get a glimpse of Mughal lives through the paintings and artifacts, which are the top things to see in Ajmer Rajasthan.
Location: FJ6M+79P, Museum Rd, Gol Pyau, Naya Bazaar, Ajmer, Rajasthan 305001
Best Time to Go:
- Tuesday to Sunday: 9:30 am to 5:30 pm
- Monday: Close
Time Needed: 1-2 hours
Famous For: Artifacts, paintings, sculptures, and architecture
How to Reach: 7 min ride from the main city via NH 58
4. Ana Sagar Lake: Enjoy the Boat Riding
Ana Sagar Lake is a picturesque lake located in the heart of the city. The lake was built by Anaji Chauhan, the grandfather of the great Indian Emperor Prithviraj Chauhan, in the 12th century. The lake offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and is a popular spot for picnics and boating. If you are a nature enthusiast, your Ajmer things to do list should start from spending some time beside the lake watching birds, mountains, and fish, and unwinding from the pressure of daily life.
Location: Ajmer, Rajasthan, India
Best Time to Go: October to March
Opening Hours: 8 am to 8 pm
Time Needed: 1-2 hours
Famous For: Boat rides, bird watching, sunset view
How to Reach: One can reach by walking or can take public transport
Suggested Read: Things to Do in Kozhikode: Lose Yourself in the Adventurous Charm of this City
5. Visit the Jain Temple Complex: The House of First Jain Tirthankara
Apart from the famous Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Ajmer has 22 Jain temples. Nasiyan Jain Temple and Nareli Jain Temple are the best in the list of Jain Tirth in Rajasthan after Ranakpur and Mount Abu temples. Nasiyan Digambar Jain Temple or Sethji ki Nasia or Sidhhkut Chaitalaya is known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings. The temple is dedicated to Lord Rishabhdev, the first Jain Tirthankara. When you are here don’t forget to explore the inner chamber known as the “city of gold”.
Location: Prithivi Raj Marg, Dumada, Dargah Bazar, Ajmer, Rajasthan 305001
Best Time to Go: October to March
Time Needed: 30 min to 1 hour
Famous For: Prayer, Architecture, Sculptures and paintings, Museum, the main chamber “City of Gold”
How to Reach: One can reach via NH58 in less than 10 mins or walking will take around 30 mins
6. The Taragarh Fort: Marvelous Work of the Goblins
Taragarh Fort is a historic fort located on the hilltop of one of the oldest mountain ranges of Aravalli in the city. The fort offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for hiking and picnics in Rajasthan. The enchanting structure and architecture of the fort have been described by the famous poet Rudyard Kipling as a work done by the magical creatures Goblins than men. With 4 huge gates, Taragarh Fort is a spectacular and outstanding example of Rajasthani architecture, which makes it one of the best things to see in India.
Location: Taragarh Rd, Taragarh, Ajmer, Rajasthan 305001
Best Time to Go: October to March
Time Needed: 1-2 hours
Famous For: Architecture, hiking, picnic, sightseeing, photography
How to Reach: 25 mins ride from Ajmer main city via Taragarh Road
Suggested Read: Best Places to Travel in Jaisalmer: Adorned in Shimmering Yellow Hue of Sand
7. Camel Safari in Ajmer: If Not Camel Ride, then What?
Camel safaris are a popular activity to do in Ajmer. The safaris are available for half-day, full-day, and multi-day trips. To enjoy a camel safari in Ajmer, one needs to go to Pushkar, which is famous for it's camel fair. From the famous Pushkar Fare Ground, you will be taken to the sunset point, where you can see other people enjoying activities like camel and camel cart riding and desert bikes. You can also enjoy some traditional musical instruments called "rawan hatha" with folk dance performances.
Location: Pushkar, Rajasthan
Best Time to Go: October to March
Time Needed: 1-2 hours or 1-night stay (overnight camping)
Famous For: Camel Ride, desert bike, Folk dance performance, sunset view, camping
How to Reach: It is only a 35 min ride from Ajmer to Pushkar via Pushkar Road
8. Shopping at the Local Bazaars: Buy the Souvenirs
If you are traveling to Rajasthan, and leaving without shopping, just know that your visit is incomplete. Rajasthan is famous for it's bustling market and shopping is one of the best things to do in Ajmer at night. You can buy handicrafts, traditional clothes, jewelry, embroidered juttis, paintings, stone sculptures, and souvenirs from here. Nalla Bazaar, Dargah Bazaar, and Mahila Mandi are among the popular places to indulge in shopping in Ajmer. Dargah Bazaar, near Dargah, is a popular shopping destination in the city. The bazaar offers a wide range of traditional Rajasthani items such as clothes, jewelry, and handicrafts.
Location: Ajmer, Rajasthan 305001
Best Time to Go: October to March
Opening Hours: 10 am to 11 pm
Time Needed: 2-3 hours
Famous For: Handicrafts, traditional clothes, jewelry, embroidered juttis, paintings, stone sculptures, and souvenirs
How to Reach: Dargah Market is about 2 km away from Ajmer Town and buses and taxis are easily available
Suggested Read: Bahrain Travel Guide: Escape to this Culturally Vibrant Island Nation
9. Attend the Urs Festival: Be the Part of Culture
Urs Festival is an annual festival that is held at the Ajmer Sharif Dargah. The festival is celebrated to mark the death anniversary of Moinuddin Chishti. The festival is a colorful event and attracts thousands of devotees from all over the world.
Location: 111, Dargah Sharif, Khadim Mohalla, Diggi Bazaar, Ajmer, Rajasthan 305001
Best Time to Go: October to March
Time Needed: 30 mins (too much crowded)
Famous For: Prayer
How to Reach: Ajmer Sharif Dargah is about 2 km away from Ajmer Town and buses and taxis are easily available.
Note: Keep your head covered, wear modest cloth, and respect the culture and tradition
10. Visit Pushkar: The Only Brahma Temple
Pushkar should be on your list while traveling to Ajmer because it is only 15km from the city. One can visit Pushkar on a solo trip or a family trip, especially in the month of November when the renowned Pushkar Mela is held here, which is the biggest camel fair in the country and among the must-do things to do in Ajmer and Pushkar. Because of the only dedicated Brahma temple, Pushkar is primarily a religious site for Hindus. Millions of visitors from around the world come here to enjoy the Mela, ornamented with various folk performances, rides, stalls, and even some interesting magic shows.
Location:
- Brahma Temple: Brahma Temple Rd, Ganahera, Pushkar, Rajasthan 305022
- Pushkar Mela: FHV4+58M, Ajmer Rd, Pushkar, Rajasthan 305022
Best Time to Go: October to November
Time Needed: 1-2 days
Famous For: Pushkar Mela, Brahma Temple, Camel Race
How to Reach: It is only a 32 min ride from Ajmer to Pushkar via Pushkar Road
Ajmer is a city that has something for everyone apart from the spiritual significance of the Ajmer Sharif Dargah. Whether you're interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of the city or simply want to relax and soak in the beauty of the surroundings, you can indulge in many things to do in Ajmer. The local markets, traditional cuisine, and welcoming people are other signatures of the city. So, whether you're traveling solo or with your loved ones, Ajmer is a destination that should definitely be on your bucket list. Take advantage of the best Ajmer travel packages and immerse yourself in the magic of this incredible city.
FAQs
Ajmer is most famous for the Dargah Sharif among tourists. Apart from that there are various other historic sites, natural beauties, markets, and activities that make it a special destination for traveling for all kinds of experiences.
The best things to do in Ajmer that you should not miss are:
- Taking Blessings at Ajmer Sharif Dargah
- Exploring the Forts and Museums
- Sightseeing and Photography
- Shopping at Various Markets
- Camping and Camel Safari
There is no specific dress code, but one needs to keep your head covered, wear modest cloth, and respect the culture and tradition. It is advised to wear cotton clothes during your visit in summer.
Yes, traveling to Pushkar from Ajmer is what most tourists chose to do for experiencing the beauty, and activities. Both cities are at a minimal distance of only 15 km.
Ajmer has various marketplaces where you may go shopping. Naya Bazaar, Dargah Bazaar, Urban Haat Bazaar, and Churi Bazaar are the best.
The top 5 places to visit in Ajmer are:
- Dargah Shariff
- Ana Sagar Lake
- Adhai Din Ka Jhopra
- Akbar's Palace
- Nasiyan Jain Temple
The best place to go for camel safari in Ajmer is Pushkar, which is famous for it’s camel fair. Camel ride in Pushkar is a famous activity among tourists.
The best time to visit Ajmer Sharif is between October to March when the weather is pleasant. The ideal hours to visit Ajmer are:
- Summer: 4 am to 10 pm
- Winter: 5 am to 9 pm
- Break Time: 3 pm to 4 pm