Ajmer

Written By Unknown on Mar 16, 2011 | 3:43 PM

Ajmer a major religious centre for Muslim pilgrims is 131 kms south-west of Rajasthan’s capital Jaipur. A sacred city, Ajmer houses some fantastic examples of early Mughal architecture in the form of magnificent monuments. Actually Ajmer doesn’t have the same rustic charm as other Rajasthani towns and is more of a pilgrimage centre than a tourist destination. The main streets of Ajmer remain crammed with heavy traffic, pedestrians and busy bazaars. Despite, such negative points, Ajmer has its distinct charm and once you visit the town you feel yourself enriched with the spirituality.

Ajmer is famous for the tomb of Sufi saint Khawaja Moinuddin Chisti, who founded the Chishtiya order. Situated at the foot of a barren hill in the old part of town, the tomb is one of the most important places in India for Muslims. Not only Muslims, but people of other religions also visit this tomb for fulfillment of their wishes. Construction of the shrine was finished by Humayun and the main gate was completed added by the Nizam of Hyderabad. Before entering inside the main entrance of the tomb you have to remove your shoes. You have to cover your head inside the shrine complex so remember to carry a top or scarf, that are available at the bazaar outside. Inside the shrine complex there are two mosques, two big pots namely – Badi Degh and Small Degh and a well as well.

Besides, the Dargah of Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti there are other famous places in Ajmer which deserve a visit. Ana Sagar Lake, Adhai Di Ka Jhonpra, Taragarh Fort, Akbar’s Palace, Nasiyan (Red) Temple etc. are other popular attractions of Ajmer.

Just 11 kms from Ajmer, Pushkar is another pilgrimage destination related to Hindus. Pushkar is home to the only temple of India dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator of the Universe. Pushkar Lake is the major attraction of the town, on the banks of the lake a number of temples stand. Pilgrims take holy dip in the lake in the early morning, while in the evening the ritual of AARTI is performed on the ghats of lake. Every year during November the Pushkar Fair is held here, which is known for cattles and a number of fun-filled activities. Lakhs of people visit Pushkar from far and wide to participate in the cattle fair.

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