Ajmer Sharif Dargah

Ajmer Sharif Dargah

Ajmer Sharif Dargah is a shrine dedicated to the Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti in Ajmer, Rajasthan, India. It is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in India, attracting people of all religions and beliefs. The shrine is considered to be a symbol of communal harmony and is a site of great cultural and historical significance.

History

The Ajmer Sharif Dargah was built in memory of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, who was a Sufi saint and philosopher who lived in the 12th century. He was born in Persia and later traveled to India, where he established a large following. The Dargah was built over his tomb and has since become one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Sufi devotees in India. Over the centuries, the Dargah has been visited by many rulers and dignitaries and has played an important role in promoting communal harmony and interfaith relations in India.

Interesting Facts

Here are some interesting facts about the Ajmer Sharif Dargah:

  1. It is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Sufi Muslims in India and attracts millions of visitors every year.
  2. The shrine is dedicated to Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, a Sufi saint who settled in Ajmer in the 12th century and became famous for his teachings and miracles.
  3. The tomb of the saint is said to possess miraculous powers and is believed to fulfill the wishes of those who offer prayers and make offerings at the shrine.
  4. The Dargah complex is home to several other tombs and shrines dedicated to other Sufi saints and is considered to be a symbol of religious harmony in India.
  5. The Dargah is known for its qawwali performances, which are devotional songs in the praise of the Sufi saints. These performances take place every Thursday and are a popular attraction for visitors.
  6. The Dargah has a rich history and has been visited by several Mughal emperors and other notable figures over the centuries.
  7. The Dargah is managed by a board of trustees known as the Dargah Committee and is also supported by the government of India, which provides funds for its maintenance and preservation.
  8. The annual Urs festival is a major event in the Sufi calendar and attracts thousands of devotees from all over India and abroad. During the festival, a large fair is held outside the shrine and several cultural and religious activities take place.

Point of interest

Some points of interest at the Ajmer Sharif Dargah include:

  1. Tomb of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti: This is the main attraction of the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, housing the tomb of the Sufi saint himself. It is covered in gold and silver filigree work and surrounded by a silver railing.
  2. Nizam Gate: This is the main entrance to the shrine and is considered to be one of the most beautiful gates in India.
  3. Main Courtyard: This is the central gathering place for devotees visiting the Dargah, and is surrounded by several smaller tombs and shrines.
  4. Buland Darwaza: This is a large and impressive gateway that leads to the main courtyard of the Dargah. It was built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century.
  5. Mehrab: This is an arch-shaped structure that marks the spot where the saint used to sit and preach to his followers.
  6. Qawwali performances: The shrine is famous for its qawwali performances, which are devotional songs in the praise of the Sufi saints. The performances take place every Thursday and are a popular attraction for visitors.
  7. Mosque: There is a mosque located within the Dargah complex that is used by devotees for prayers.
  8. Akbari Masjid: This mosque was built by Emperor Akbar and is considered to be one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture in India.
  9. Khanqah of Khwaja: This is a building within the Dargah complex that was used by the saint as a place of retreat and meditation.
  10. Ram Bhawan: This is a hall where visitors can take a rest and have a meal. It is also used for religious and cultural events.

How to reach

Ajmer Sharif Dargah is located in the city of Ajmer in Rajasthan, India. Here are a few options to reach the shrine:

  1. By Air: The nearest airport to Ajmer is the Jaipur International Airport, which is approximately 135 km away. From the airport, one can take a taxi or a bus to reach Dargah.
  2. By Train: Ajmer has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities in India such as Delhi, Jaipur, and Mumbai. From the railway station, one can take a taxi or a rickshaw to reach the Dargah.
  3. By Road: Ajmer is well-connected by road to major cities in Rajasthan such as Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur. Buses run by the Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation are available from these cities to Ajmer.

It’s advisable to reach Ajmer by early morning to avoid the crowds and to have a peaceful visit to the shrine.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the Ajmer Sharif Dargah is during the cooler months of October to March. During this time, the weather is pleasant and comfortable, making it easy to explore the shrine and surrounding areas. The shrine is also less crowded during these months, allowing for a more peaceful and spiritual experience.

However, the shrine is open all year round and is particularly busy during the annual Urs festival, which is a 6-day celebration marking the death anniversary of the saint. During this time, thousands of devotees gather at the shrine to offer prayers and participate in religious activities. The festival usually takes place in the months of May or June and is considered to be an important event in the Sufi calendar.

Nearby attractions

Ajmer Sharif Dargah is located in the city of Ajmer in Rajasthan, India, which has a rich cultural and historical heritage. Here are some nearby attractions that visitors can explore:

  1. Ana Sagar Lake: A man-made lake located in the heart of the city, offering scenic views and boating facilities.
  2. Adhai-din-ka Jhonpra: An ancient mosque and Sanskrit college built in the 12th century.
  3. Taragarh Fort: A hilltop fort located on a hill overlooking the city, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.
  4. Nasiyan Jain Temple: A beautiful Jain temple known for its intricate carvings and gold-plated wooden interiors.
  5. Mayo College: A prestigious boarding school founded in 1875, known for its grand Victorian architecture and rich cultural heritage.
  6. Ajmer Government Museum: A museum showcasing the cultural and historical heritage of the city, including coins, manuscripts, and miniature paintings.

These attractions are located within a short distance from the Dargah and can be easily visited as part of a day trip or extended stay in the city.

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