Ajmer-The Sandstone of Rajasthan
The above picture depicts the city of Ajmer-the strategic and economic base of Rajputian Empire.
Ajmer is one of the most important city in India. It is present in Rajasthan. This bustling chaotic city is around 12km from Pushkar. This city with population of over 500 thousand is an urban agglomeration. The total distance of this city from Jaipur and Delhi are 134km and 390km respectively.
Coming to its history, the founder of this city was Shakambhari Chahamana a Chauhan ruler, and served as a Chauhan capital until 12th century. But unfortunately this city came under Muslim rule after the defeat of Prithviraja III in 11th century. Due to this we come to see many shrines and mosques of Muslims.
The city of Ajmer is surrounded by the Aravalli Mountains. This picturesque town is quite famous as a pilgrimage centre for both Muslims and hindu.
This city comes under HRIDAY – Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana scheme of Government of India.
This beautiful city is surrounds serene Lake of Ana Sagar, and is protected by the rugged Aravalli Hills. This city is most important site in terms of Islamic history and heritage as it contains one of India’s most important Muslim pilgrimage centres-the shrine of Khwaja Muin-ud-din Chishti, who founded India’s prime Sufi order in India.
It is surprising to know that Ajmer is also a significant centre for the Jain religion with golden Jain temple under its hood.
Some enrapturing places to visit in ajmer are-
Dargah of Muin-ud-din Chishti
This beautifully constructed shrine is situated at the foot of the Taragarh hill. The majestic gates were a gift from Nizams of Hyderabad as a token of gratitude.
This shrine is of Sufi saint Khwaja Muin-ud-din Chishti, who came to Ajmer from Persia in 1192 and died here in 1236. This tomb gained its significance during the time of the Mughals as many emperors added to the buildings here which in turned this into a more beautiful place to look out for
This shrine was completed by Humayun.
Well if you are of any other religion other than muslim then you need to cover your head in certain parts of the shrine.Hece do not forget to take a scarf or cap –.If you want to buy one then there are plenty at the colourful bazaar which leads to the Dargah.
To enter this shrine you need to enter through Nizam Gate (1915). Akbar masjid was constructed in this very site near the shrine in 1571. Now akbar masjid is an Arabic and Persian school of religious education.
The second gate is called the Nakkarkhana due to the presence of two large nakkharas (drums) fixed above it.
A third gate is called Buland Darwaza (constructed in 16th century) leads directly into the Dargah courtyard.
The courtyard is surrounded by a silver platform inside. It is said that this shrine solves all your problems. And hence pilgrims and Sufis arrive at this very place on the anniversary of this great saint’s death.
Palace of Akbar
Akbar built this palace basically to keep an eye on pesky officers or local chief.
Only part of the original fortification still remains. It is still known locally as the ‘Magazine.’ This beautiful place is now converted into a museum in which you can see collections of old weapons, Rajputian armour and sculptures. This fort sets a great example of traditional Mughal architecture.
Ana Sagar
If you are looking for a place to chill out then this is it! This is a perfect place to take a detour after seeing many heritage buildings of Ajmer.
This large lake was created in 12th century by damming river- Luni. This beautiful lake is set in such a way that the hills are reflected on its oily surface. This lake looks lovely when you watch is at sunset from daulat bagh located in vincity. This is a popular and good place for an evening stroll.You can even hire pedalos and motorboats here!
