Ajmer Sharif is a Sufi shrine of Moinuddin Chishti, a very highly revered Sufi saint of the Muslim community. Located in Ajmer, Rajasthan, this shrine houses the grave (Maqbara) of saint Chisti.
Dargah Ajmer or Khawaja Gharibnawaz Dargah Ajmer is a holy place where one can experience divinity in the air. The holy Sufi dargah (shrine) of Sufi saint Moinuddin Chisti is visited not only by Muslim followers but by people of other religions as well. Moreover, tourists in general from around the world also visit here.
Legend has it that Khawaja Moinuddin Chisti came to India from Persia and dedicated his life to helping and supporting the poor and underprivileged. The dargah is the final resting place of Khawaja Moinuddin Chisti and it is believed to have been built by the Mughal emperor Humayun. The ambiance inside the premises of the dargah is so divine that one is bound to forget the worries of life and enjoy the moment.
While any time of the year is great to visit the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, if heat is a concern for you then months between October and March are perfect would be apt for you. During this time, the weather is pleasant to wander and explore the place to the fullest. Visiting Ajmer Sharif in the summer after March is not recommended as the temperature may go up to 45-degree celsius. Ajmer Sharif Dargah is very popular among locals and tourists. It is one of the famous places to visit in Ajmer with family.
Ajmer Sharif History
Hazrat Khawaja Moinuddin Chisti is considered the founder of Islam in India. He spread the teachings of Islam in the country. He breathed his last in 1236 AD and since then people believe that this place has immense divine powers.
It is owing to this belief that the local people claim that if you pray here wholeheartedly for something with good intentions then it will definitely come to you, no matter what.
Major Attractions of Ajmer Sharif
1. Mughal Architecture
Being built by Mughals, the Ajmer Sharif Dargah has all the prominent features of Mughal architect. It comprises tombs, Dalaans, and courtyards.
2. Huge Cauldrons
The Ajmer Sharif Dargah premises have 2 huge cauldrons one with a capacity of 2,240 kg and another with a capacity of 4,480kg. These cauldrons are used to prepare kheer and sweets on special occasions.
3. Urs Celebrations
According to an intriguing story, when Khawaja Moinuddin Chisti was 114 years old he locked himself in a room for 6 days and he spent the time praying, after which only his mortal body remained for his followers. Urs is an annual festival at the Ajmer Sharif Dargah where people gather to commemorate those last 6 days of the renowned Sufi saint.
How to Reach Ajmer Sharif Dargah
Ajmer has always been known for its historical and spiritual significance. Due to this, the dargah of Ajmer Sharif holds great reverence in the hearts of devotees. It is located at an approximate distance of 403, 1,024, 1,667, 1,812 km from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru respectively. Here is how you can travel to Ajmer by the following means of public transportation.
By Air
Jaipur airport is the nearest airport to reach Ajmer Sharif. From the airport, one is required to travel another 140 km to reach the dargah. Regular direct and connecting flights from all cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru arrive here hence one may consider traveling by air.
By Rail
Ajmer Junction railway station is the nearest to reach the holy place in Rajasthan. From the station, one is required to cover nearly 1km to reach the dargah. One may consider traveling via Ala Hazrat Express, Chetak Express, Uttranchal express, and Ashram Express. Trains from all metro cities of India arrive here hence one may consider traveling by train if looking for a comfortable and budget-friendly travel option.
By Road
Ajmer is well-connected by motorable roads and national highways to other Indian cities. If you are traveling by road you may either get on an inter-state/ private tourist bus from nearby regions. Otherwise, you can also consider taking taxis or may drive to Ajmer city in your personal vehicle as well as per your travel budget and convenience.
- From Jaipur - 135 km via NH48
- From Indore - 528 km via NH52
- From Bhopal - 552 km via NH52