Mahindra Homestays » Ajmer

Sightseeing in Ajmer

Mahindra Homestays — Thu, 23 Aug 2012 01:14:24 +0000

Ajmer in Rajasthan is a popular pilgrimage centre in India and has many fine monuments and temples for visitors to discover.

The ancient city of Ajmer has passed through many hands and this lineage is reflected in the many ancient monuments that dot the city. The presence of the shrine of the Sufi Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti is what makes Ajmer such an important pilgrimage centres.

Our sightseeing in Ajmer guide gives you details on the must see sights along with opening times and entry fees.

Dargah Sharif of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti
Situated at the foot of the Taragarh hill, the mausoleum of the famous Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti is one of the most popular pilgrimage spots in India. The complex is richly adorned with silver and gold ornamentation. Legend has it that the Mughal emperor Akbar came here in the 16th century asking to be blessed by an heir. The saint obliged and Akbar continued to come every year on pilgrimage. The best time to visit is in May during the Urs or death anniversary of the saint.
Timings: In winters between 5am to 9pm; summers between 4am to 10pm.
Website: www.dargahajmer.com

Taragarh Fort
With six gates and 3 km-long walls, this giant fort sits on a steep hill (a one-and-half hour climb on foot) and guards the city of Ajmer. One of the oldest hill forts in Asia, Taragarh was the seat of the Chauhan rulers. The British converted the fort into a sanatorium for their troops. There are no entry fees or timings for the fort.

Adhai Din Ka Jhonpda
Situated on the lower slope of the Taragarh hill, this mosque was originally a Vaishnava Hindu temple built in 1153. It was converted into a mosque by Mughal ruler Quṭbuddin Aybak in 1193. Of special interest is the double-depth calligraphy inscriptions in Naskh and Kufic scripts and the intricately carved Jali Screen donated by Sultan Altamush in 1230. Noted for its exceptional architecture, the structure has forty columns that support the roof, but no two are alike. The name (‘adai din’ literally means ‘two and a half days’) comes from the fact that it took just 2 and a 1/2 days to build. Another theory says it was named after a festival that lasted for that duration. The monument has no entry fees or fixed timings.

The Government Museum
The museum, also known as Magazine, is situated inside the premises of Akbar’s fort. It was built by Akbar in 1570 AD and served as a residence when he came to for his pilgrimages. It was also the residence of Akbar’s son Salim. This is the place where Salīm, as the Emperor Jahangir, read out the firman (royal decree) permitting the British East India Company to trade with India. This trade decree lead to a chain of historical events that resulted in colonisation of India by the British. The museum has a collection of stone sculptures, Mughal and Rajput armor and weaponry, miniature paintings, and antique idols dating to the 6th and 7th century AD.
Timings: The museum remains open every day from 10am to 4.30pm, except Fridays and public holidays.
Fee: Entry fee is Rs5 (free on Mondays).

The Lakes
Ajmer has two beautiful man-made lakes – the Anasagar Lake, a reservoir made by Maharaja Anaji in 1150 AD. Jehangir added to its beauty with the Daulat Bagh gardens and later, Shah Jahan constructed the dazzling marble pavilions of Baradari in 1673 AD. The lake has boating facilities and an island in the centre. During winter, a host of migratory birds including pelicans, flamingos and varieties of ducks visit the lake.The second water body is the flat-pancake shaped Foy Sagar Lake, considered to be a marvel among artificial lakes. The name is in honor of the English engineer Mr Foy who constructed this water reservoir in 1892 AD under the famine relief project. There are no entry fees for the lakes.

Nasiyan (Red) Temple
Made of red sandstone, this is an intricate Digambara Jain temple built in the late 19th century. The main hall is known as Swarna Nagri or City of Gold due to the gold-plated wooden figures depicting legends from Jain mythology.
Timings: The temple is open from 8:30am to 4:30pm
Fees: Entry fee is Rs10.

Nimbark Peeth
This giant temple spread over 40 thousand square feet, is known for its pillars of ornamental marble and exceptional architecture. The sanctum sanctorum has been built in such a way that the light from the full moon touches the feet of the idol at exactly 12pm.
Timimgs: Timings are from 5:30am to 12 noon and from 5pm to 8:30pm every day.
Fees: There’s no entry fee.

Pushkar
Ajmer is the base for visiting the neighbouring ancient pilgrimage city of Pushkar. It is famous for its lake with 52 holy bathing ghats and many temples. Pushkar also has a 14th century Brahma Temple. And of course, the epic and world-famous camel fair when more than 300,000 people and 20,000 camels, as well as cattle and horses, descend on the sand dunes. The almost fortnight-long fair takes place around Kartik Poornima, the auspicious full moon night of November. Check the state tourism website for fair dates.
Website: rajasthantourism.gov.in

8 Things To Do In Ajmer That Will Leave You Wanting More

Mahindra Homestays — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 18:59:28 +0000

Ajmer is not just a tourist destination. It’s an experience that stays with you, long after you leave.

These Ajmer things to do will leave you feeling compelled to return to this hallowed city.

1. Make a wish

There are many things about Ajmer that keeps people coming back. But the premier landmark of the city is the hallowed Dargah Sharif, tomb of Saint Muinnudin Chisti. People of all kinds, from different parts of the world, come together at the Saint’s shrine to offer their respects and ask for his blessings. The shrine is particularly crowded on Fridays and during the annual festival of Urs.

2. See the ‘Kingdom of God’

A lesser-known but absolutely divine contribution to the Ajmer offering is Soni ji ki Nasiyan, also known as Nasiyan ji mandir. This complex houses a mesmerizing gold-plated creation which is an attempt to recreate the “Kingdom of God” conceived in the Jain fables. The intricate work and detailing in this “Golden City” are simply astonishing.

3. Head for the hills

The Taragarh Fort is one of the oldest forts in India and sits atop the Aravali range. The imposing fort offers an enchanting view of the city below and makes for a peaceful sunset point. Besides the landscape, the fort is also an attraction because it homes Miran Saheb ki Dargah, the final resting place of Miran Saheb, drawing followers in large numbers.

4. Laze by the lake

Ajmer’s Anasāgar Lake is a popular spot. The languid lake is frequented in the evenings by locals and visitors alike, who can be seen enjoying an evening stroll and munching on the local street food.

5. Push off to Pushkar

Just up the road from Ajmer is the place famous for its annual fair and bohemian spirit, Pushkar. The 11 kms distance can be covered in just 30 minutes by car. One can opt for an overnight stay or just go there for a few hours to visit the Brahma temple, saunter through the streets and feast on mouthwatering vegetarian dishes served in its trendy cafes.

6. Rummage in the shops

Although big brand names can be seen sporadically around the city, the real steals are vibrant curios sold on street corners and in makeshift shops. From ornaments for your home to gorgeous costume jewelry, there’s a plethora of inexpensive products, which can be yours without any real bargaining.

7. Walk the alleys

As you maneuver your way through Ajmer’s bustling and spirited alleys you’ll come across hidden gems that aren’t found in most travel brochures. Between a kulfi-seller’s stall and a bangle-makers shop will be a music school resonating with the sounds of the sitar.

8. See fine Islamic architecture

As you walk through the alleys next to the Dargah Sharif, you’ll find your way to Dhai din ka Jhopra. It is believed that the monument was originally a Hindu university, which was demolished once the Mughal came to power. And, in just two and a half days (dhai din) it was replaced by the Mughals with the creation that stands here today. The monument is one of the few places in Ajmer, where one can see architecture with Mughal influence.

Practical information
There is no airport in Ajmer, but it is extremely well-connected by trains and highways to all major cities. The nearest airport is in Jaipur.

With the exception of Tarahgarh Fort, most tourist destinations are located close to one another. Being well-informed about the distances helps when using auto-rickshaws or taxis.

Tourists should avoid visiting the Dargah Sharif on Fridays and Sundays. Beware of pickpockets, touts and con artists. Cover your head before entering the shrine.

If possible, leave your mobile phones and bags in your homestay, because they are not allowed inside many places.

Traveling to Ajmer between late March and July is extremely ill-advised as the summers are harsh and unforgiving.

Ajmer is 138 kms from Jaipur, 392 kms from Delhi and 233 kms from Bikaner.

Udaipur is a 5-hour drive away.

Take a look at our Ajmer homestays.

Front page image: Creative Commons

Ajmer Accommodation: New Homestay In Rajasthan

luke — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 14:06:29 +0000

Photo: Koshyk

We now have Ajmer accommodation. If you’re planning a trip to Rajasthan, read on.

Ajmer is a spiritual centre and a connection point between other places in Rajasthan, such as Jaipur and Udaipur. But it is also an interesting and attractive city in its own right.

Most visit Ajmer on their way to Pushkar, home of the famous camel fair only six miles down the desert road. Yet many will tell you – Ajmer is worth spending some time in, particularly if you like to get off the tourist trail. The city’s Dargah Sharif tomb and the backstreet bazaars are of particular interest.

What makes an Ajmer stay even more inviting is the fact Mahindra Homestays has now added The Villa to its network – it’s one of the biggest residential properties in the entire city, with sprawling lawns and gushing fountains. This Ajmer accommodation is a treat.

With four rooms in the garden-facing west wing, a separate cottage and a set of rooms with a terrace balcony, there is plenty to choose from and plenty of space. The proud Maholtra family have been successfully running this homestay for eight years and they have kitted it out with all the facilities you could need.

Go over to our main site and see the photos in larger format. You’ll soon get a sense of The Villa’s relaxing environment and mountain surrounds. Or read more about Ajmer itself.