Would you read a blog about the things to do in Ajmer if I said I wouldn’t visit again?
Well, possibly. I mean, I probably will.
We love India and embrace its chaos and colour. But this particular trip – our sixth time to Rajasthan as a family – hit differently.
It started with a pigeon in our hotel bedroom. Then with some of the sites of Ajmer in between it ended with a post-monsoon hospital stay in New Delhi.
So here we go.
All the things to do in Ajmer and sites to see in this often overlooked small Rajasthani city.
Plus, some very honest feedback about why the things to do in Ajmer don’t necessarily outweigh the challenge of actually navigating the crevices of this unlikely and overpacked pilgrimage Mecca…
- What about Ajmer?
- History (a little)
- Why Does Anyone Visit Ajmer?
- Best Time To Visit Ajmer
- Things To Do in Ajmer
– Ajmer Sharif Dargah
– Akbari Masjid
– Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra
– Nizam Gate, Shahjahani Gate & Buland Darwaza
– Delhi Gate (in Ajmer)
– Ajmer Muslim Quarter
– Jain Temple
– Ana Sagar Lake
– Ajmer Fort & Museum
– Victoria Jubilee Clock Tower - Getting To Ajmer
- Where To Eat in Ajmer
- Where To Stay in Ajmer
So, What Was it About Ajmer?
I’m not one for penning fixed negative opinions on a positive geared travel blog.
But writing now before I’ve left Ajmer and just survived (narrowly) a rickshaw through unbeatably ram-packed body-to-body crevices for streets outside the Dargah in the monsoon has me already confident in the title of this blog.
Albeit we visited in monsoon season. Plus it is our sixth trip to India as a family.
We love Rajasthan by the way. But something about Ajmer and the things to do – or lack of – had us missing the glorious sunshine and colours of Jaisalmer.
We miss the colours of Jodhpur. And the friendly pink-hued markets and palaces of Jaipur.
This trip was meant to be a diversion from Goa in the height of monsoon season. There’s not everything open at this time of year in the south and tropical viruses are rife.
So, we chose Ajmer, Pushkar and Udaipur as a more northern and calmer choice away from the warnings of wet weather and viruses.
A Little Bit About Ajmer, Rajasthan
Ajmer is understated. I’ll give it that. It is a bustling city in the state of Rajasthan, India.
It’s a small (comparatively) city by Indian standards with a population of just 800,000. It isn’t on the main tourist trail as with the other Rajasthani cities of Jaipur, Jodhpur or Jaisalmer.
Rather it is unabashedly a huge site of pilgrimage.
Most of the things to do in Ajmer are cultural sights as the city is an important pilgrimage destination for Jains, Muslims and Hindus.
But little did we know the congestion, crowds and hygiene standards of Ajmer on our visit would really challenge even our travel standards after years of galivanting all over India.
Read on and I’ll tell you about the good and bad.
Why Does Anyone Visit Ajmer?
The main thing to do in Ajmer is a visit to the 13th century Shrine of Sufi Saint Moinuddin Chishti.
Chishti was unanimously regarded as a great saint after his passing. The tomb (dargah) of Chishti became a deeply venerated site following the preacher’s death in 1236AD.
Mughal Emperor Akbar visited the shrine many times in pilgrimage and even once with his Hindu wife to commemorate the memory of the saint.
It has since then become the most holy site of pilgrimage for Muslims in the whole of India.
But as a non-Muslim visitor in India, it’s only fair to ask the question of what is there to see in Ajmer.
The truth is the main reason for visiting Ajmer as a traveller is the proximity to the neighbouring small city of Pushkar.
Pushkar is less than 15km by road and only takes 30 minutes to go between the two. But Pushkar does not have a Railway Station and so the only chance of connecting to Pushkar by rail in Rajasthan is to arrive in Ajmer first.
So, without further ado (and without wishing to offend the questionable reasons for visiting Ajmer itself) let’s talk about Ajmer first.
We did visit. Some sites we even visited twice.
Best Time To Visit Ajmer
Ajmer is located within the vast desert state of Rajasthan. But don’t let the ‘desert’ label fool you. It is hard to believe, but this arid region is heavily affected by India’s wet monsoon season — a lesson we learned the hard way!
While we deliberately avoided the coast during the monsoon, we mistakenly assumed the desert would stay dry. We arrived in August, just days after the city had experienced severe flooding.
It’s hard to believe this desert state does in fact become affected and part of India’s wet monsoon season. (We certainly didn’t believe it!). But it does!
What is the Best Time to Visit?
To see Ajmer at its best, aim for the winter months between October and March. This is the peak season for most of Rajasthan, offering much more comfortable conditions for exploring.
- Winter Temperatures: You can expect pleasant weather, with daytime highs reaching around 32°C and cooler nights dipping to about 8°C.
- The Monsoon Reality: If you visit during the summer or monsoon months (June to September), be prepared for high humidity and the possibility of heavy, sudden rains that can disrupt travel.
Things To Do in Ajmer
Even if you are only passing through Ajmer for the convenience of the train station, you might have time to explore and be wondering what is worth seeing.
Here is what we rate as 10 of the Best Things To Do in Ajmer without need for a day tour or excursion out of the city.
1. Ajmer Sharif Dargah: The Shrine of Khwaja Muin-ud-din Chishti
The primary reason Ajmer is such a significant pilgrimage destination is the Ajmer Sharif Dargah. A Dargah is a sacred shrine built over the grave of a revered religious figure—in this case, the world-renowned Sufi saint Khwaja Muin-ud-din Chishti.
Originally from Persia, the saint arrived in Ajmer in 1192 and remained until his death in 1236. Today, this site is considered one of the holiest places in Islam and stands as the most visited Sufi shrine in India.
The history of the Dargah is deeply intertwined with the Mughal dynasty, the same emperors responsible for India’s most famous landmarks:
- The Construction: While the shrine was completed by Emperor Humayun, many subsequent emperors added their own structures to the complex.
- The Legacy: You will find the Akbari Masjid at the front of the shrine, built by Humayun’s son, Akbar the Great.
- The Taj Mahal Link: Akbar was the grandfather of Shah Jahan, the emperor who eventually commissioned the Taj Mahal.
Because of its historical and spiritual weight, the shrine attracts millions of devotees and travelers from all faiths every year.
Visiting the Ajmer Sharif Dargah
The street leading to the Dargah is famous for its vibrant food stalls, traditional crafts, and intricate gota embroidery. However, visiting as a tourist is an intense experience that requires a bit of mental preparation.
The narrow lanes approaching the shrine and Masjid are ram-jammed with people.
What to Expect
As one of the country’s most revered pilgrimage sites, the area is perpetually crowded, with a constant flow of devotees moving toward the entrance.
Plus it didn’t help it had been raining heavily the night before and the streets were sludge and aflush with rubbish. Albeit there was the occasional whiff of Kachori or something frying.
A Word of Caution: If you struggle with claustrophobia or are uncomfortable in extremely dense crowds, this may be a difficult visit. The crevice-like streets are packed shoulder-to-shoulder, and even in these pedestrian-heavy alleys, you’ll occasionally have to dodge a motorbike or auto-rickshaw squeezing through the gap.
But despite the chaos and the filth underfoot, the Dargah and the nearby Jhopra Mosque are the historic heart of Ajmer. Even though I told myself I wouldn’t go back, we actually ended up visiting twice. It is the most iconic thing to do in the city, and it’s hard to say you’ve truly seen Ajmer without witnessing the energy of this historic site.
- Tip: Head coverings are mandatory in certain areas of the shrine, so don’t forget to bring a scarf or cap.
2. Akbari Masjid: Akbari Mosque in Ajmer Sharif Dargah
This is part of the famous Dargah too.
The main entrance is through the Nizam Gate at the front of the Dargah. Then just inside, is the recognisable green and white mosque, Akbari Masjid.
The mosque was constructed in 1571 and is now an Arabic and Persian school for religious education.
3. The Historic Gates of Ajmer Sharif Dargah
If you have successfully navigated the labyrinth of alleyways and the dense crowds to reach the Dargah, there are three significant historic gates you should look out for within the complex:
- Nizam Gate: This serves as the primary entrance to the mosque and shrine area. It is the first major structure you will encounter.
- Shahjahani Gate: Named after Emperor Shah Jahan, this is the second gate you pass through. It is also commonly called the “Nakkarkhana” because of the two massive traditional drums (nakkaras) mounted above the archway.
- Buland Darwaza: This third gate leads directly into the main Dargah courtyard. It was erected in the 16th century and remains a striking example of Mughal architecture.
Each of these gates represents a different era of the shrine’s expansion and offers a brief moment of architectural beauty amidst the bustle of the pilgrimage site.
4. Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra
Located just beyond the Dargah on the outskirts of the city lie the ruins of Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra. Built in 1153 AD, this is one of the oldest mosques in India and is a stunning example of early Indo-Islamic architecture, characterized by its rows of intricately carved pillars.
This is one of the most well-known things to do in Ajmer. Though – continuing the honest streak here – seeing its current condition was quite disheartening. Perhaps the recent heavy rains made the situation feel worse, but the lack of maintenance and the amount of litter on the grounds felt like a disservice to such a majestic monument.
However, despite the lack of upkeep, the mosque is an essential stop if you have even a single day in Ajmer. Its history and craftsmanship are undeniable, even in their weathered state.
Tip: The mosque is open daily from dawn to dusk, and there is no entrance fee.
5. Delhi Gate (in Ajmer)
Delhi Gate is one of the lesser listed but much used historic sites in Ajmer. The familiarly named gate is a massive arched gateway leading towards Dargah Sharif.
It was constructed in 1571 AD by Mughal Emperor Akbar.
There is a small (compatibly) pillared hall on the right-hand side of the gate which was historically used by guards.
Today the gateway is still part of the main pilgrimage route for pedestrians heading to Dargah Sharif.
6. Ana Sagar Lake and the Baradari Pavillions
While the Dargah is undoubtedly Ajmer’s centrepiece, the massive, man-made Ana Sagar Lake is well worth a visit for its sheer scale and scenic views.
From what we read, it is a popular spot for locals and travellers alike, and during the summer months, it becomes incredibly lively with boat trips and excursions to the small island in the centre. However, it wasn’t all that busy when we visited.
We spent some time wandering along the waterfront promenade and exploring the nearby parks.
A few things to look out for include:
- The Promenade: The lakeside walk features a variety of statues—interestingly (weirdly), many depict animals that aren’t even from anywhere near the region!
- Anasagar Baradari: Further along the shore, you’ll find a beautifully enclosed park housing the Baradari. These are five elegant marble pavilions commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1637.
Further around the lake front is an enclosed park and the waterfront marble pavilions of Anasagar Baradari.
7. Jain Temple: Soni Ji Ki Nasiyan (Red) Temple
This marvellous Jain Temple is one of the major monuments and things to do in Ajmer.
The temple was built in 1865 and is decorated inside with gold, silver and precious stones as well as intricate diorama depicting the Jain concept of the ancient world.
If you haven’t yet visited a Jain Temple in India, then this one is an incredible example of typical Jain style architecture complete with sculptures of Jain scholars.
8. Ajmer Fort and Government Museum: Things To Do in Ajmer
The historical Ajmer Fort is right in the centre of the old city and today houses the Ajmer Government Museum.
The fort is popularly called Akbari Fort as it was constructed by Mughal Emperor Akbar to honour the Sufi Saint Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chisti.
I’m not going to lie in that we didn’t go inside the museum.
We visited the fort exterior to check it out. But in the rain and closing in weather, and challenges of finding somewhere new to stay in Ajmer, we weren’t in a museum mood.
It was once the residence of Prince Salim, the son of the Emperor Akbar, and like many of India’s government museums it presently houses a collection of Mughal and Rajput armoury and sculptures.
9. Dargah Bazar / Ajmer Muslim Quarter
Dargah Bazar and the shopping streets spilling out from Ajmer Sharif Dargah are a maze of bustle and all things Indian Bazar.
The main market starts from right outside the shrine stretching in both directions towards the railway station and back to the Jhonpra Masjid.
This part of the market is stocked with flowers, incense and candles and flower chadars (sheets) for offerings at prayer in the shrine. Then behind the masjid are rows of small nooks and cranny-like restaurants and stalls.
There is Chai and Kachori and other snacks unidentifiable to the passing tourist but with queues and crowds that suggest well otherwise.
10. Victoria Jubilee Clock Tower
It’s hard to miss the large Victoria Jubilee Clock Tower.
If you are arriving in Ajmer by train the clock tower is just beyond the main entrance to Ajmer Junction Railway Station.
It is one of the historical landmarks of Ajmer dating back to the time of British rule. This landmark was erected in the late 19th Century to commemorate Queen Victoria’s 60-Year Diamond Jubilee.
Where to Eat: Best Restaurants and Cafes in Ajmer
This is technically not the usual for a list of Things To Do in Ajmer. But – trust me – finding a clean, safe, and comfortable place to eat is essential in Ajmer. Especially if you have a few hours to kill before a train or need a break from the intense city streets.
Mango Masala Restaurant & Café
We discovered Mango Masala, and it is easily the best place we found in the city.
Whether you are looking for a full meal or just a reliable spot to wait for your departure, this is the place to go.
The restaurant opens at 9:00 AM daily and features two separate, clean dining areas. It’s a great “safe haven” if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the crowds outside.
They serve good coffee in the morning. (Because let me assure you we weren’t about to trust the Pigeon-Room Hotel for their included breakfast when they didn’t even have a restaurant onsite!). Plus they even have WIFI.
If you have spare time between sightseeing or are simply waiting for your train at the nearby station, Mango Masala is the perfect spot to recharge.
Getting TO Ajmer: How To Get to Ajmer
Ajmer Junction is a busy railway hub that serves as a vital link between the major cities of Rajasthan and the nearby spiritual town of Pushkar.
Because there is no train station in Pushkar itself, almost everyone traveling there by rail will use Ajmer Junction as their gateway. Then from the station, it is just a short bus or taxi ride over the mountain to reach Pushkar.
It is easy to get a direct Chair Class train from Udaipur to Ajmer and onwards from Ajmer to Jaipur.
Accommodation in Ajmer: A Cautionary Tale
Finding the right place to stay in Ajmer can be a challenge, and as seasoned travellers – believe me – we have a very specific recommendation on where not to stay.
After five and a half years of full-time travel, we consider ourselves pretty flexible. But our experience in Ajmer tested those limits.
We arrived after dark on the train from Udaipur, navigating through streets that were sodden with mud and rubbish from recent flooding. Our first impressions of the hotel we had picked online were grim, to say the least.
We were doubtful on even arriving to the hotel and sent Gavin up to check out the room first.
The “Pigeon Room” Incident
The room initially seemed passable, but as we settled in, we realised an entire pane of glass was missing from an upper window facing the street. When we called for help, a staff member arrived and simply tried to tape a piece of discarded cardboard over the gap — cardboard that was, unfortunately, covered in pigeon shit.
The guy sort of shrugged and as he taped it up we sat in some disbelief, wondering internally whether we were about to head out on the streets of Ajmer in the dark to find a new home for the night.
That was until a pigeon flew out of the corner of the room heading for the now open window!
We requested an immediate room change, insisted on fresh sheets for all beds, and carefully inspected every window before unpacking. Then so began our two days in Ajmer in the post-flood weekend of the monsoon.
Lessons Learned in Ajmer
While we won’t name the specific hotel to avoid being overly harsh, I do have a few tips to avoid a similar fate.
- Check the room first: If you arrive at a hotel that feels “off,” always send someone up to inspect the room before checking in or paying.
- Inspect the windows: Especially in older city centres, ensure the room is properly sealed against the elements (and the local bird population). There was seriously bird shit everywhere 🙁
- Location matters: The streets immediately surrounding the Dargah can be very intense and difficult to navigate with luggage. You may find cleaner, more modern options slightly further out from the city center.
Where To Otherwise Stay in India
Pigeons aside there are some great places to stay in India.
These are the hotels and accommodation we use regularly on our travels in India and that we can recommend for your trip.
- Kochi: Hotel Abad Plaza
Good location next to mall with supermarket. Multiple restaurants on site; huge buffet breakfast. Swimming pool. Note this hotel is not in the old city of Kochi.
- Varanasi: Hotel Temple on Ganges
Great location; basic rooms and restaurant. Close to Assi Ghat – good location to explore Varanasi from.
- Jaisalmer: The Wanderlust Guesthouse
AMAZING guest-house! We love staying here and can highly recommend. Great rooms; rooftop restaurant overlooking the fort; awesome camel safaris!
- New Delhi Airport: Taurus Sarovar Portico [beautiful hotel only a few km’s from Delhi International Airport. A great first stop arriving in India with buffet breakfast included and a restaurant onsite.
- Delhi: Hotel Hari Piorko
Good location in the heart of the Main Bazaar, Delhi. Close to restaurants and train station. No view from rooms.
- Delhi: Smyle Inn
Extremely basic hotel in small back alley. Very friendly, helpful staff and simple breakfast included. Just off Main Bazaar.
- Kolkata: Hotel Golden Palace
Close to New Market with very friendly service and a great in-house room service restaurant.
- Mumbai: Gulf Hotel
Good location in Colaba few mins walk to Gateway of India. Basic rooms (and very old elevator) and very basic breakfast included. Also lots of (questionably so?) mirrors.
- Jodhpur: Raj Mandir Boutique Homestay
Good location in Blue City, spacious room with small balcony inside Haveli style home. Tiny little doors, lots of unique decor and artefacts.
- Jaipur: Jaipur Haveli
Incredible old haveli home in heart of Jaipur. Highly recommend; beautiful rooms; great attention to detail and very friendly staff and owners.
- Agra: Aman Homestay
Very friendly family-run homestay with rooftop views of The Taj Mahal. Great rickshaw driver service and home cooked meals.
Read More About Travel in India
- Epic 10 Day Rajasthan Itinerary.
- Tips On Travelling To India For The First Time.
- 18 Unique Things To Do In Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.
- What To See Inside Jaisalmer Fort.
- 24 Quintessential Souvenirs From India.
- Survive Your First Time In Delhi.
- Famous Indian Street Food To Try In India.
- 12 Things To Do In Mumbai, India.
- 10 Things To Do In Kolkata.
Useful Links Planning Travel in India & Beyond
These are the companies we use and can recommend for planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation and it’s easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally.
- 12GoAsia – Book trains anywhere in India.
- Skyscanner– This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.
- GetYourGuide– Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions around the world. Find everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
- SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy it short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country.
- World Nomads – Travel insurance tailored for longterm travel and nomads (including those who have already left home). Make sure you have insurance before these things to do in Ajmer!