Ajmer Sharif Dargah is among the most visited holy places in Rajasthan. The Sufi shrine is dedicated to the Persian Sufi saint Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chishti, who is believed to be the direct descendant of Muhammad. It is a spectacular architectural marvel that attracts people of all religions from all over the country and the globe. The Ajmer Dargah, as it is popularly known, is believed to be magical as any wish is granted and fulfilled if you pray with a pure heart and a clear conscience. About 100,000 people visit the dargah daily, making it one of the busiest tourist destinations of Ajmer.
About Ajmer Sharif Dargah
Ajmer Sharif Dargah is a Muslim shrine dedicated to the secular teacher Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chishti. He was from Persia and believed to be Muhammad’s direct descendant. Muhammad instructed the saint to go to India in his dream and this is why the saint made his way to Ajmer from Lahore. The saint stayed in Ajmer from 1192 until 1236 AD when he passed away. During his lifetime, he opened doors for people of all backgrounds and taught them about respect, compassion, and love. His secular teachings resonated with them and it did not take him long to gain a big following. Mughal King Humayun built the dargah in honour of the Sufi saint.
The Ajmer Sharif Dargah is an architectural masterpiece that will impress you from the moment you step inside. With plenty of valuable metals used intricately and beautifully, the dargah is a sight to behold. You can find the tomb of the Sufi saint inside the dargah along with mosques. When Emperor Akbar came to Ajmer once annually, he and Emperor Shah Jahan decided to build mosques inside the dargah complex. The dargah is a place of peace and healing as people feel like they have stepped into a serene spiritual realm. With smells of delicious sweets, vibrant flowers, and calming incense sticks filling your senses, the dargah is a spiritual heaven that everyone must visit at least once.
Summer timings: 4 am to 10 pm, Monday to Sunday
Winter timings: 5 am to 9 pm, Monday to Sunday
Entry fee: Free
Must Read: Heritage Sites In Rajasthan
History Of Ajmer Sharif Dargah
Image Credit: Shahnoor Habib Munmun for Wikimedia Commons
Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chishti was a 13th-century Sufi saint whose final resting place was the Ajmer Sharif Dargah. He was also known for performing miracles and many believe that praying at the dargah makes miracles happen. The dargah’s history dates to the 16th century and you can find many structures inside the dargah compound. For instance, eight entrance gates were constructed and only three of those are used today. The shrine’s marble dome was built in 1532 with a blend of Indo-Islamic architecture. You can find sandstone, marble, and brick materials used to construct the various structures inside the complex.
The mosque inside the complex was built in 1640 AD and it is believed to have taken 14 years to complete it. A lot of money was spent building the mosque and no stone was left unturned to ensure it was created with perfection. You can also find the Begum Dalen which was built by Princess Jahanara in 1646 AD. This falls on the east side of the Ajmer Sharif Dargah. It is another structure whose beauty will mesmerise you due to the amazing marble work. The entire complex of the dargah including the courtyard is a work of art while also providing a sense of belonging and peace that cannot be found anywhere else.
What To Do At Ajmer Sharif Dargah
Image Credit: Saswat swarup mishra for Wikimedia Commons
Celebrate the Urs Festival: The festival is celebrated to commemorate the Sufi saint. It falls during the Rajab month of the Islamic calendar (usually in March or April). The dargah becomes more stellar as it is decorated with lights and flowers. You can expect a higher rush than usual during this time.
Immerse yourself in the serenity: Even though the dargah is usually crowded, you will feel at peace when you visit it. That is the beauty of this sacred monument. You will feel blessed by just entering the Ajmer Sharif Dargah.
Make offerings at the dargah: When you visit the dargah, you can make offerings of sweets, flowers, velvet gilaaf, and so on. You can also make money donations to the dargah to ensure the smooth operation of the holy shrine.
Eat and shop: You can find multiple eateries that serve Muslim delicacies which will tantalise your taste buds near Ajmer Sharif Dargah. There are ample shops around the dargah where you can purchase a range of items for yourself and loved ones including embroidery items and souvenirs.
Suggested Read: Sawariya Seth Mandir
How To Reach Ajmer Sharif Dargah
Image Credit: Harshul12345 for Wikimedia Commons
You can reach Ajmer Sharif Dargah easily as the city is well-connected by the different modes of transport as follows:
By Rail: Ajmer Junction Railway Station is just 1.3 km from the Ajmer Sharif Dargah. You can hire a direct auto to the dargah. This is the cheapest way to reach the holy shrine and among the quickest as many trains connect to Ajmer.
By Road: The dargah is easily accessible by road. If you are already in Ajmer you can opt for mini-buses, cycle rickshaws, tempos, and autos. Tongas are also available if you want to experience a horse-drawn carriage.
By Air: The closest major airport is the Jaipur International Airport which is 135.1 km from the dargah. The domestic Kishangarh Airport is located just 31.2 km from the dargah. You can hire a taxi or board a bus from these airports to reach the dargah.
Tips For Visiting Ajmer Sharif Dargah
- You cannot take items such as large bags, sharp objects, anything flammable, drugs, and alcohol inside the dargah.
- No dress code is enforced but it is best to wear modest clothes and cover the head. Women can opt for head scarves or stoles to cover their heads while men can tie handkerchiefs.
- You can find a range of eateries around the dargah so make sure you save some time for tasting Ajmer’s delicacies.
- Shopping places are close to the dargah so taking souvenirs for your family and friends is convenient.
- Pets are strictly prohibited so make sure you do not bring them to the dargah. It is best to make alternate arrangements in advance.
- You can find a range of hotels around the Ajmer Sharif Dargah but make sure you book in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
Further Read: Mumbai To Rajasthan Road Trip
The Ajmer Sharif Dargah must be on your itinerary for a trip to Rajasthan! It is a serene and revered place that will enlighten your spirit and make you feel happier than ever before. Go with others or go solo because it is a truly enlightening experience! Do not forget to make a wish when you go there!
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Cover Image Credit: VrMUSLIM for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Ajmer Sharif Dargah
Can Hindus visit the shrine?
Yes. Hindus and people of any faith can enter the shrine without any issues provided they follow the rules laid out by the management.
Why is Ajmer Sharif Dargah popular?
People believe that every wish is fulfilled if you pray at the dargah with a pure heart and soul. This is why thousands of people come to the dargah every single day.
Can women enter the Ajmer Sharif Dargah?
Yes, women are allowed to enter the dargah and a mausoleum. They should wear modest clothing and cover their heads with scarves which can be purchased at the shops outside the dargah.
Is a dargah the same as a masjid?
No. A masjid or a mosque is where Muslims worship Allah and women are prohibited from entering. A dargah consists of a Sufi saint’s grave and is often called a shrine. Everyone can visit the dargah.
What is the best time to visit the dargah?
If you want to cover a range of tourist spots on your visit to Ajmer, the best time is from October to February due to the pleasant weather.
People Also Read:
Places To Visit In Ajmer Things To Do In Ajmer Shopping In Ajmer
