The history of Ajmer dates back to the 7th century. Since then, it has been the headquarters of several different dynasties. It is also a renowned pilgrimage center for the Hindus and Muslims. Ajmer is famous for the Dargah Sharif, which is the tomb of the Sufi saint, Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti—equally revered by Hindus and Muslims. Ajmer is also the base city for the world famous Pushkar fair and the Pushkar Lake. During the fair, which is generally held during the month of November, a large number of devotees arrive here to take a dip in the sacred lake.

This is Ajmer’s landmark site and one of the holiest of Muslim shrines in India. However, it is a secular place and attracts people of all religions. This was the abode of Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti, a Sufi saint who arrived here from Persia in 1192 AD till he breathed his last in 1236 AD. The present day shrine was constructed by the Mughal King Humayun.

This attractive double storied, red colored structure is a Jain temple that is hard to miss. Adorned by large gold plated wooden figures, this temple belongs to the Digambar Jain sect. The premises also include a hall that is richly decorated by glass mosaic work, precious stones, gold and silver work, and offers a preview to the Jain mythology. The place is also known as Soni ji ki Nasiyan.

Built in 1354, this is a huge palace that is guarded by six gates. The fort also houses Miran Saheb ki Dargah, dedicated as homage to the brave governor of the fort who lay down is life while defending Taragarh from the enemies. Also visit Bhim Burj, which is a massive battlement that holds a large canon and take a look at the impressive stone water reservoirs within the fort. The top of the fort offers a spectacular view of the surrounding area and the lake.

As the name suggests, this mosque was constructed within two and half days. It is a confluence of Indo Islamic architecture and the pillars used here were originally from the remains for old Hindu and Jain temples. This old mosque consists of a quadrangle and a front screen wall made up of seven pointed arches, adding a touch of architectural grandeur to the place.

Named after Anaji Chauhan, this artificial lake was constructed by the locals who built the catchments. The “Baradari” pavilions, however, were built by Shah Jahan in order to ease his long vacation in Ajmer. This is a favorite outing spot for the locals even today thanks to the adjoining parks that serve as a green spot for the city.

Visit the famous Mayo College, which is constructed in the Indo-saracenic style and has been around since the British times when it was established by Lord Mayo. Also worth a visit is the Anna Sahib artificial lake.

Maansingh Palace, Hotel Regency, Hotel Sahil, and Hotel Ambassador

Ajmer was under the rule of the Chauhan dynasty till the 12th century, when Prithviraj Chauhan lost to Mohammed Ghauri. Eventually, Ajmer became a part of the sultanate of Delhi. It has also been home to the great Mughals. Incidentally, it was here that one of the first contacts between the Mughal King Jehangir and Sir Thomas Roe took place in 1616. In 1818, it was the Scindias who took over the reigns of Ajmer and handed it over to the British East India Co.