A pilgrim destination that’s constantly in the news for the list of celebrities heading its way… wondering what makes Ajmer a favored pilgrim site for all irrespective of religion?

A city dotted with monuments, Ajmer nestled in the foothills of the lush green Aravali Hills, was founded in the 7th century by Raja Ajpal Chauhan, and served as the stronghold of the Chauhan kings. Formerly known as Ajaymeru, this city located barely 135 km from Jaipur houses the tomb of the great Sufi saint Khawaja Moinuddin Chishti, one that is equally revered by both Hindus and Muslims. A saint who travelled here from Persia, Chisthi came to India from Afghanistan along with Muhammad Ghori in 1192 AD. Devotees and pilgrims believe that Khwaja listens to the prayers of all those who visit him, thus tourists from not only India but from other countries too visiting Rajasthan definitely make it a point to visit this shrine.

Today Ajmer honors this saint with a 12 day Urs festival held to mark his death anniversary.Visited by tens of thousands of tourists no matter which faith, the shrine and the town wear a festive look, with prayers being offered and quawwallis being sung at night. For Muslims of S. Asia, this shrine known for its marvelous marble dome is only next to Mecca and Medina.

The Sola Khamba or sixteen pillars, is another interesting attraction just outside Chisti’s dargah.  Built in white marble it is known for its beautiful arches and slender minarets. While the shrine  is the reason why most pilgrims visit Ajmer, here’s discovering a lot more of Ajmer than the tomb.

Found on the outskirts of the city, a mosque worth visiting though in ruins  today yet showcasing some spectacular Indo – Islamic architecture is the Adhai-din-ka-Jhonpra. Legends claim that this mosque was originally a college that was converted into a mosque by Mohhamed Ghauri who had the added decor completed in barely two and a half days, thus giving it the name Adhai-din-ka-Jhonpra.

Another marvelous mosque here is the Shahjahan’s mosque built in white marble. A beautiful mosque it is known for its intricate carving, Persian inscriptions and sanctum.

The former stronghold of the Chauhan kings, this city has its share of forts too. Though in ruins today, the Taragarh Fort formerly known as Ajaymeru Durg, located atop a hill is a must for its picturesque views from up here. Another fort here is the Roopangarh Fort that was built in the 17th century by Maharaja Roop Singh, today converted into a luxury hotel.

Located near the main post office of the city is the Government Museum; previously the Royal Palace of Akbar, it is known to house some fine exhibits which include fine paintings, antique weapons, sculptures, and more.

Adding to the city’s beauty are two manmade lakes, the Ana Sagar and Foy Sagar. While the first was built by King Anaji the latter was named after the engineer Foy who developed it as part of a famine relief program. Both are beautiful lakes and ideal picnic grounds, with tourists being able to enjoy boating activities offered at the Ana Sagar Lake.

Ajmer is also home to around 22 Jain temples, the Nasiyan temple dedicated to the first Jain Tithankar being a must visit. Built in the 18th century, this beautiful temple also referred as Soniji ki Nasiya  is a stunning piece of work, complete with paintings and idols of gold.

While the temple town of Pushkar, one of Rajasthan’s most popular tourist destinations is an interesting getaway especially during the month of Kartik for its rich culture, its amazing Pushkar Fair, and a dip in the Pushkar Lake which is believed to cleanse the soul of sins, another interesting getaway is Baghera for its archaeological remains.

Here rock inscriptions dating back to 1226 AD can be found.  Of the many ancient monuments found here one of interest is the Varaha Avatar Temple dedicated to the boar form of Lord Vishnu. Amongst the ruins found here are also 10th century Jain temples and rocks believed to have been part of earlier temples there.

Also of interest is Mangliyawas, 26 km from Ajmer for two rare species of trees believed to be over 800 years old. Visited by tourists and devotees, this place fills up with pilgrims who come here to worship the trees during the dark moon day of ‘Sravana’  . Other attractions  include Badnor for its magnificent fort, Pachewar for its migratory birds during winters.

shopper’s paradise, look out for curious, antiques, exquisite jewellery, embroidered ‘Jutis’ as well as colorful Bandhini (tie and dye) sarees.

During the Annual Urs fair especially one can find a wide array of arts and crafts here, and not just from the local artisans but also from other nearby villages. The Ajaymeru Udyog Crafts Mela is also an excellent time to indulge in some Rajasthani shopping, with items ranging from woodworks to home decor.

Offering tourists the best of both Hindu and Muslim cultures, Ajmer a destination considered holiest by Muslims in India next to Mecca, is a wonderful attraction for those looking at visiting pilgrimage destinations across India.