Ajmer

अजमेर

Home to the revered Ajmer Sharif Dargah shrine dedicated to Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, Ajmer is a major pilgrimage center attracting devotees of all faiths. The spiritual atmosphere, Ana Sagar Lake, and nearby Taragarh Fort provide both religious and architectural interest.

Things to do

• Ajmer Sharif Dargah — Pay respects at this 12th-century shrine dedicated to Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, one of India's most important pilgrimage sites welcoming devotees of all faiths.
• Ana Sagar Lake — Stroll along the scenic artificial lake built in the 12th century, featuring pleasant gardens and Mughal pavilions with views of the surrounding hills.
• Taragarh Fort — Climb to this 14th-century hilltop fortress for panoramic views of Ajmer and the surrounding Aravalli landscape.
• Nasiyan Temple — Visit this ornate Jain temple known for its stunning golden interior and intricate marble work, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship.
• Adhai-Din-Ka-Jhompra — Explore this early Islamic architectural marvel, a mosque built from a repurposed Sanskrit college featuring Indo-Islamic design elements.
• Foy Lake — Enjoy a peaceful visit to this tranquil artificial lake surrounded by hills, popular for evening walks and sunset views.

Food to try

• Dal Baati Churma — A traditional Rajasthani meal of lentils, baked wheat balls, and crushed bread dessert, deeply rooted in the region's culinary heritage.
• Ghariboush — A sweet meat dish cooked with dry fruits and spices, often prepared during religious festivals and celebrations at the Dargah.
• Ajmeri Biryani — A fragrant rice dish with meat, slow-cooked with local spices and saffron, reflecting Mughal influences in Ajmer's cuisine.
• Khichdi — A simple, comforting one-pot meal of rice and lentils seasoned with spices, commonly served as langar (community meal) at the Dargah.
• Chikhalwali — A traditional Rajasthani sweet made from wheat flour, ghee, and jaggery, often offered as prasad at local temples.
• Lassi and Rabri — Yogurt-based drinks and condensed milk desserts widely available in Ajmer's markets, perfect for cooling off in the heat.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress modestly at religious sites — Wear loose, covering clothing when visiting the Dargah and temples, and remove shoes before entering inner sanctums as a sign of respect.
• Participate in langar culture — Experience the community meals served at the Dargah, where visitors of all backgrounds eat together as an expression of spiritual equality and hospitality.
• Visit during Urs festival — The annual Urs celebration honoring Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti (typically in October) draws hundreds of thousands of pilgrims and offers the most vibrant atmosphere.
• Greet with respect — Use 'Assalamu Alaikum' as a greeting in religious spaces and show deference to elderly residents and spiritual guides encountered throughout the city.