Ajmer Sharif Dargah is one of the most famous shrines in India, attracting visitors of all faiths and religions. Located in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan, it is the tomb of the Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti. So, if you are looking forward to exploring places to visit in Rajasthan, the Dargah is a major tourist attraction that you cannot skip.
To help you plan a memorable trip to Ajmer Sharif Dargah, here is everything you need to know about the historic significance, how to reach, the best time to visit and places to explore nearby.
Historic Significance
Ajmer Sharif Dargah is the resting place of Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti (1192-1236), who was a great philosopher and a contributor to spreading the ethical and spiritual values of Islam amongst the masses. Even after he passed away, the devotees continue to visit his resting place to worship and pay him respect.
The shrine was built in 1532 by the Mughal emperor, Humayun, with the classic Indo-Islamic architecture. It consists of various buildings, including Buland Darwaza, Mehfilkhana and Jama Masjid. It has eight entrances, out of which only three are in use. The main entrance is the Nizam Gate, a yellow structure with floral designs. The second gate, Jannati Darwaza (Bihisti Darwaza), made of silver, is used during the special occasions. The third one is the Shahjahani Gate.
Another key highlight of the Dargah is the two huge cauldrons in the inner courtyard of the shrine. These containers, with the capacity of 2240kg and 4480 kg, are used during special occasions to cook Kheer.
Best Time to Visit Ajmer Sharif Dargah
The Dargah is open to the public throughout the year. If you are looking to experience the festivities, the best time to visit Ajmer Sharif Dargah is during the Urs Festival. It is an annual festival, held during the seventh month of the Islamic calendar, to mark the death anniversary of the Sufi saint, Moinuddin Chisti.
During the festival, the shrine is decorated with glittery and bright lights and the atmosphere turns musical with Qawallis.
- Timings: Winters: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Summers: 5:00 AM – 8:45 PM (Closed for Khidmat: 2:50 PM to 4:00 PM; on Thursdays, 2:20 PM to 3:30 PM).
How to Reach Ajmer Sharif Dargah
Since Ajmer Sharif Dargah is one of the best places to visit in Ajmer, Rajasthan, it is well-connected with the rest of the country through various means of transportation.
By Train
The closest railway station to reach the Dargah is the Ajmer Junction Railway Station, which is just 1.5 km away. From the station, you can take a taxi or bus to reach the Sharif Dargah.
By Air
The nearest airport to Ajmer Sharif Dargah is the Jaipur International Airport, which is 136 km away. It takes around 3 to 4 hours to reach the Dargah from the airport by taxi or bus.
If you are planning a weekend trip, you can book one of the hotels in Jaipur and explore the best places to visit in Jaipur and then start your journey to Ajmer the next day.
By Road
There is a direct bus service to Ajmer from cities like Delhi, Jaipur and Mumbai. You can also enjoy a self-drive or rent a cab for a comfortable travelling experience. While on a road trip to Ajmer, you can also explore places to visit in Pushkar. Moreover, you can easily find affordable hotels in Pushkar offering top-notch amenities.
Places to Visit Near Ajmer Sharif Dargah
1. Akbar’s Palace
Also known as Ajmer Fort, Akbar’s Palace was once a resting place for his troops. At present, the fort has been converted into a museum, especially for history enthusiasts.
At the museum, you can witness the age-old military weapons and exquisite sculptures, paintings and other artefacts of the Mughal era, making it one of the best museums in Rajasthan.
- Timings: 10:00 AM- 5:00 PM.
- Entry Fees: Indians: INR 10, Foreigners: INR 50.
- Location: Naya Bazar, Naya Bazaar, Ajmer, Rajasthan 305001.
2. Adhai Din ka Jhopra
Another religious place to visit in Ajmer near Ajmer Sharif Dargah is the Adhai Din Ka Jhopra. It is a masjid built by Qutub-ud-Din-Aibar, the first Sultan of Delhi, in 1199.
According to the local legends, it is believed that the structure was built in just two and half days.
Additionally, the arched screens, ruined minarets and charming pillars make it one of the famous tourist attractions in the city.
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM.
- Location: Ander Kote Rd, Lakhan Kothri, Ajmer, Rajasthan 305001.
3. Ana Sagar Lake
While visiting the Dargah with your family and friends, you can also explore one of the beautiful tourist spots in the city, the Ana Sagar Lake. It is located just 4 kms away from the Ajmer Sharif Dargah.
The lake, surrounded by Daulat Bagh Gardens, is an adventure hub for activities and boating here is one of the best things to do in Ajmer. You can also witness breathtaking sunset views from the lake.
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
- Location: Anasagar Lake, Ajmer, Rajasthan 305001.
4. Ajmer Jain Temple
One of the famous religious places to visit in Rajasthan for Jains, Soniji Ki Nasiyan or Ajmer Jain Temple, is a Digambar Jain temple. The temple is dedicated to Rishabhdev (Agnidev), the first of the 24 Tirthankaras of Jainism.
The temple is made of red sandstone, hence called the Red Temple. The main chamber, known as the Swarna Nagari, the “City of Gold”, houses various gold-plated wooden idols, depicting several figures in Jainism.
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
- Entry Fees: INR 10 for Indians and INR 25 for Foreigners.
- Location: Prithivi Raj Marg, Dumada, Dargah Bazar, Ajmer, Rajasthan 305001.
5. Foy Sagar Lake
Also known as Varun Sagar Lake, Foy Sagar Lake is one of the famous places in Ajmer. It is known for its mesmerising beauty and colonial past, as it was built during the British rule by the English architect Mr Foy in 1892 as a part of a famine relief project.
It is a popular spot among locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the panoramic views of the neighbouring Aravalli hills.
- Timings: Open 24×7.
- Location: Varun Sagar Lake, Rajasthan 305005Varun Sagar Lake, Rajasthan 305005.
6. Taragarh Fort
Situated on a steep hill at a distance of 12 km from the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Taragarh Fort is a famous historic site in the city. It is also known as Star Fort and offers breathtaking views of the entire neighbouring city of Bundi.
The best time to visit the fort is during sunset to witness the breathtaking changing hues in the sky.
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Entry Fees: INR 25 for Indians and INR 100 for foreigners.
- Location: Taragarh Fort, Taragarh Rd, Taragarh, Ajmer, Rajasthan 305001.
Thus, Ajmer Sharif Dargah is one of the best shrines in the country, promoting secularism and harmony. People from all over the world visit the Dargah for its mystic powers, mesmerising architecture and spiritual atmosphere.
If you are also planning a visit, make sure to book your stay at affordable Treebo hotels in Ajmer from Treebo Club’s website or app for a comfortable and relaxing trip.
