India Tourism » Travel to Ajmer

Ajmer and Pushkar towns just 11 kilometers apart from each other represent the multi-religious character of India in the most sublime manner.

Ajmer is known worldwide for the shrine of Sufi Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti. Even Mughal emperors used to come here to pay homage. The Dargah is a hive of activity all through the year as people of all religions come here. Tons of rose petals are offered here everyday which itself describes the significance of the shrine. The shrine complex has two very big cauldrons for donations. Qawwali, the famous Sufi singing, is a common sight.

Ajmer has an interesting building known as Adhai Din ka Jhopra, which is said to have been built in just 2 ½ days. It was actually a Sanskrit college, which Mohammad Ghori later plundered and got rebuilt into a mosque. In the center of the town is a beautiful red temple of Jain religion, which is known as Nasiyan. The inside hall is exceptionally beautiful with gold and silver decorations. Ajmer, till 1947, acted as the place of British resident. Not being part of any principality, Ajmer grew up as a great center of education. Among the colleges, the Mayo College stands apart. It was the college for the princes to study and it still reflects that old world charm.

Pushkar Travel: The significance of Pushkar town for the Hindus is immense. For it has the only temple of Lord Brahma (the creator). The Sarovar (Lake) here is formed of Brahma's lotus and a dip here is said to wash away all sins. This is the reason that on auspicious days around full moon of Hindu Kartika month, pilgrims from far and wide assemble here to take a holy dip. The huge human congregation turns into a huge fair that takes a commercial angle too, witnessing the hectic trading of cattle and other rural commodities. Pushkar fair is the rare event, which has since time immortal been the center of pilgrimage, trading, fun, merry-making and socialization all taken together. The result is a 100% pure Indian experience!

The town's spiritual character is very evident from the scores of temples around the lake. A walk around the bathing ghats of the lake is enough to soak oneself in the interesting religious rituals of India.Brisk Camel trading session in Pushkar fair All the year round the town remains very laid back and peaceful; many tourists like overstaying here.

Excursions:
Kishangarh town is barely 27 kms from Ajmer towards Jaipur. It is very famous for its miniature paintings known as bani thani, which is actually the depiction of Radha (Lord Krishna's consort) in typical style of sharp features. Nearby there is a heritage Roopangarh fort providing rustic atmosphere.

Tilonia: A small village that has been very successful in its cooperative industry initiative of producing various leather handicrafts. A true example of people's participation in rural development.