7 Must Visit Places In Ajmer

Ajmer is a vibrant city that offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and spirituality. Nestled amidst the Aravalli Hills, its name originates from "Ajay Meru," meaning "invincible hill." One of its most iconic attractions—the revered Dargah Sharif—rests at the end of one such hill. Ajmer is a shining example of religious harmony, where various faiths coexist peacefully. In addition to being a prominent pilgrimage site, the city is dotted with serene lakes, historic landmarks, and other tourist attractions that together lend Ajmer its unique charm.

Here are some must-visit places in Ajmer:

# Ajmer Sharif Dargah

The foremost attraction in Ajmer is undoubtedly the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, the mausoleum of the revered Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, also known as Garib Nawaz. Devotees from all religions visit this 13th-century Mughal-era shrine to offer prayers in the hope of spiritual blessings. Featuring magnificent Mughal architecture, including grand gates like Nizam Darwaza, Shah Jahan Darwaza, and Buland Darwaza, the Dargah is especially vibrant during the six-day Urs festival held in the Islamic month of Rajab. The offering of prasad, cooked in massive cauldrons in the inner courtyard, adds to its spiritual allure.

# Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra

Located near the Dargah, Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra is an intriguing blend of Indo-Islamic architecture. Originally built as a Sanskrit college, it was later converted into a mosque by Sultan Ghori in 1198. The name, which means "hut of two and a half days," is linked to the brief duration of an 18th-century Urs festival. The mosque’s domes, arched walls, and intricately carved pillars offer a glimpse into medieval craftsmanship.

# Anasagar Lake

Constructed in the 12th century by Arnoraj Chauhan, the grandfather of Prithviraj Chauhan, Anasagar Lake is among India’s largest artificial lakes. Named after Arnoraj (also known as Anaji), it’s a favourite sunset spot for tourists and photography lovers. Apart from its natural beauty, the lake also offers boating and water sports activities, making it a vibrant recreational site.

# Soniji Ki Nasiyan (Ajmer Jain Temple)

Also called the Red Temple or Golden Temple, Soniji Ki Nasiyan is a 19th-century Jain temple dedicated to Rishabhanatha, the first Tirthankara. Known for its intricate red sandstone facade and the lavishly adorned Swarna Nagari (City of Gold) chamber, the temple is one of the richest in India. Its gold-plated wooden models depict key aspects of Jain cosmology and captivate both pilgrims and tourists.

# Nareli Jain Temple

Situated on the outskirts of Ajmer, the Nareli Jain Temple (Shri Gyandoaya Tirth Kshetra) is a striking blend of traditional and contemporary architecture. Made of marble with angular structures and beautiful carvings, it’s a significant pilgrimage site for Digambar Jains. The hill above the main temple features 24 small shrines dedicated to the Jain Tirthankaras, collectively called Choubisi or Jainalaya.

# Prithvi Raj Smarak

Dedicated to the valiant 12th-century Rajput king Prithvi Raj Chauhan, this memorial features a black stone statue of the warrior on horseback. Located atop a hill, it offers panoramic views of Ajmer and the surrounding Aravalli ranges. The adjacent garden makes it a great picnic spot for families and groups.

# Mayo College and Museum

Founded in 1875, Mayo College is one of India’s oldest and most prestigious boarding schools. Modeled after Eton College in Britain and named after the 6th Earl of Mayo, it showcases stunning Indo-Saracenic architecture. The campus houses the Mayo College Museum in Jhalwar House, known as the world’s largest school museum with over 18 rooms of exhibits donated by alumni, staff, and well-wishers.

# Akbar’s Palace and Museum

Built by Emperor Akbar in the late 16th century as a military outpost and retreat, this fortified palace later served as a British armory—hence still known locally as “Magazine.” Today, it houses the Ajmer Government Museum (also known as Bharatpur Museum), showcasing artifacts like ancient sculptures, weapons, inscriptions, and paintings. The black marble idol of Goddess Kali adds to the site’s historical significance.

# Clock Tower (Victoria Jubilee Clock Tower)

Located opposite Ajmer’s railway station, this British-era landmark was erected in 1887 to mark Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee. Echoing the grandeur of London’s Big Ben, albeit on a smaller scale, this tower stands as a testament to colonial architecture and Ajmer’s historical importance during British rule.

# Lake Foy Sagar

Constructed in 1892 by British engineer Mr. Foy to provide employment during a famine, Lake Foy Sagar is a serene artificial lake offering a flat, mirror-like water surface. Surrounded by the tranquil Aravallis, it’s perfect for those seeking solitude or a scenic spot for photography.