Ajmer
Introduction
Located in the north-western state of Rajasthan, you will find Ajmer situated at the very center of the region. This central location has earned the city the nickname the Heart of Rajasthan.
As the administrative headquarters for both the Ajmer district and the Ajmer division, the city serves as a primary hub within its local territory.
Before you go
Prepare for your visit by understanding the local context and cultural nuances of the region to ensure a respectful and smooth experience.
Getting there
You can reach the city by air via Kishangarh Airport. For those traveling by rail, Ajmer Junction serves as a major hub with various connections from across the country. From New Delhi, you can choose between the fast Vande Bharat Express or the Swarna Jayanti Rajdhani Express, while the Delhi–Ahmedabad Mail offers an overnight option for more sleep. Trains also connect the city to Kolkata and provide links toward Ahmedabad, Udaipur, and Jaipur.
Road travel provides several convenient options to reach your destination:
- Travel by bus from nearby cities like Jaipur or Jodhpur.
- Hire a chauffeured car-taxi through local tour operators for your arrival or for sightseeing around the city.
- Arrange a rental car with a driver from various services available in the region.
Getting around
You can navigate the city primarily on foot, as many key locations are within walking distance of one another. The Dargah Bazaar is a short walk from the railway station, while Ana Sagar—a lake featuring marble pavilions set in a garden—is reachable by a longer stroll. To discover more of the local atmosphere, you can wander through back-alleys branching off from Dargah bazaar to find old architecture and murals.
If you prefer not to walk, several transport options are available:
- Cycle rickshaws
- Autorickshaws
- Horse-drawn tongas on selected routes
- Tempos and mini buses that travel between the bus stand and railway station while covering most of the town
Where to stay
You can find numerous hotels and guest houses located near the Dargah. If you plan to visit during the Urs season, ensure you book your accommodations several months in advance.
Depending on your preference for location and amenities, you have several options:
- Choose a stay with decent facilities if you prefer a more established experience.
- Select an option near the bus stand and railway station for convenient access to transportation hubs.
- Opt for an economy-range bungalow located close to the bus stand.
- Stay at a location on Lohagal Road that offers comfortable accommodations and facilities suitable for meetings and conferences.
Food & drink
Savor local flavors ranging from traditional Indian curries to regional specialties. If you have a preference for spicy snacks, start your day with breakfast staples like Kachori and Samosa, or try the unique combination of kadi-bhujje. You can find these treats at several locations including Gol Pyau, Kesarganj Gol Chakkar, Shree Namkeen, and Mahadev Chaat in Naya Bazaar. For a more substantial meal, choose between hearty vegetarian thalis or visit a dhaba for authentic flavors near the old bus stand area. In Dargah Bazaar, you can find non-vegetarian options in an air-conditioned basement setting.
Refresh your palate with local beverages that are staples of the region. During the warm months, grab a refreshing Lemon Soda from a machine in Dargah Bazaar, served in a decorative bottle. You should also try the famous Dahi-Lassi, which is crafted from pure milk and offers an unforgettable taste.
What to see and do
Explore the historic architecture and spiritual sites that define this region. You can visit the Akbari Fort to view an extensive collection of Mughal and Rajput armour and sculptures within its museum, or admire the white marble trellis-work of the Shah Jahan Mosque located in the Dargah precinct. For a different atmosphere, travel to the outskirts to see the large temple at Nareli or visit the 19th-century Ajmer Jain temple, which features a gold model of Ayodhya. If you seek higher ground, Taragarh Hill offers a shrine and views from its high peak.
Experience the local culture and scenery through these sites:
- Relax by Ana Sagar Lake, where you can stroll through Daulat Bag park, view marble monuments, or find snacks from local vendors.
- Visit the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, a major pilgrimage center; remember to cover your head and shoulders when entering this sacred site.
- Travel toward Pushkar to see the Brahma Temple and explore the colorful lanes of the marketplace for traditional foods and shopping.
- Walk through Prithviraj Smarak, a park dedicated to the 11th-century emperor.
When to go
You can experience a variety of climates in Ajmer depending on the season. The winter months offer mild and temperate conditions with low humidity, though you may encounter occasional cold snaps that bring temperatures near freezing.
During the summer and early monsoon, you will encounter hot weather. From June onwards, the monsoon season brings frequent heavy rain and thunderstorms as the rains peak before they begin to withdraw.
Three days in Ajmer
Day one, you can arrive in the heart of Rajasthan by train from New Delhi or via the Vande Bharat Express. Once you reach Ajmer Junction, you can choose to travel through the local area using autorickshaws, horse carriages, or cycle rickshaws.
Day two, you can explore the Dargah Bazaar and visit the Dargah. You might also spend time near Ana Sagar.
Day three, you can prepare for your departure from Ajmer by choosing to travel to nearby cities such as Jaipur or Udaipur, or arrange for a road trip toward Jodhpur.