Ringed by the rugged Aravalli Hills, and home to the beautiful Dargah of Khawaja Moinuddin Chishti. Ajmer is an extraordinary blend of culture and nature.
Located in the heart of Rajasthan, with some of the most beautiful Jain temples in India, along with two artificial lakes, Ajmer is a tourist’s heaven.
Fifteen Kilometres from Ajmer lies the ancient Hindu pilgrimage town of Pushkar. The city with the only temple dedicated to Brahma (The Creator) in the world. Is said to have more than 500 temples it is in this town; salvation is said to have been found.
Camel fair of Pushkar is one of the largest Camel fairs in the world.
When planning a trip, the first question that comes to mind is “WHAT TIME OF THE YEAR should I be visiting this place?” Well, the best time to visit Pushkar and Ajmer is sometime around NOVEMBER. When the sun is not too harsh, winters are just beginning, and Pushkar is filled with Camels.
Camel fair of Pushkar is one of the largest Camel shows in the world. This fascinating spectacle that occurs once a year (November) attracts a lot of tourists from around the world. Filled with competitions, ranging from “longest moustache” to cricket matches between local Pushkar clubs and casual foreign tourists. There are hundreds of shops selling traditional Rajasthani items as well as thousands of camels dressed up beautifully. Making it arguably the most colourful gathering of humanity and livestock on this planet.
When visiting the fair, you should go and watch a traditional Rajasthani dance, take a camel back ride and participate in at least one competition. Only then should you move forward and explore more of the town. Deep into town on the banks of Pushkar Lake stands the next stop. The famous Temple of the Hindu God Brahma. The Brahma temple, where Artists from around the world take a pilgrimage to request inspiration of Brahma and Saraswati, his consort, the goddess of the creative impulse, the source of music, beauty, and eloquence. This should be on the must visit for everyone visiting Pushkar.
A day at the colourful fair can get tiring, which can be easily handled by trying out the fantastic food Pushkar has to offer. Ranging from mouthwatering tikki chaat to Falafel. A lot of options are available, but one dish that stands above all, and everyone should try is Rabdi Malpua. This is an Indian version of pancakes (fried in ghee and dunked in sugar syrup). This heavenly touch is added to the whole experience by the sunset there. Pushkar Lake, with prayer bells ringing in the temple and the sun going down, is a sight to behold.
The beauty of the picturesque Ana Sagar Lake will absolutely make the trip worth it.
A half an hour ride from Pushkar takes you to the city of Ajmer. Home to the ancient shrine of Khawaja Moinuddin Chishti (Ajmer Sharif Dargah). The famous Dargah consists of several white marble buildings, all decorated with intricate and beautiful carvings, making it the most beautiful Dargah in India.
Located at the foot of Taragarh hill near the Ajmer Railway Station. The best time for a visit to the beautiful Islamic monument is either early morning or in the evening.
In the centre of the city not far from the Dargah, and just about five kilometres from Ajmer Railway Station is Soniji ki Nasiyan the temple. Famous for its City of Gold. Sitting in the double-storey hall, it is a diorama depicting the Jain concept of the ancient world. Decorated with Gold, Silver, and precious stones, it is unlike any other temple in Rajasthan and is worth a visit.
Driving to the outskirts of Ajmer on the Aravalli hills takes you to the Nareli Jain Temple. This is another beautiful monument in Ajmer. Spread across hundreds of acres, the temple when viewed from above the hills is breathtaking. When the sun starts setting behind the mountains, the temple lights are left open taking the whole experience to a different level.
Well, known for its food, Ajmer can be a delight for foodies. Along with various mouthwatering delicacies, you can get a chance to taste several traditional dishes. Dal Baati Choorma, Lahsun Ki Chutney, Ker Sangri, Bajre ki roti, Moong Dal Ka Halwa, Ghevar, and Rabdi are some of the best dishes that are to be consumed during your stay in Ajmer.
The beauty of Ajmer lies in the fact that the city, encircled by the Aravalli Hills itself, surrounds the spectacular Ana Sagar Lake. The Lake is one of the most scenic places in Rajasthan. While sitting outside the Bajrang Garh temple, located near the circuit house, having an ice-cream and admiring the beauty of the picturesque Ana Sagar Lake will make the trip worth it.