Ajmer is one of the oldest and most prominent cities in the Indian state of Rajasthan and serves as the administrative center of the Ajmer district. Centrally located in the heart of Rajasthan, the city is surrounded by the Aravalli Mountains and is often considered a gateway to the nearby pilgrimage town of Pushkar, which is just 11 kilometers away and famous for its temple dedicated to Lord Brahma.
Ajmer has been selected as one of the heritage cities under the HRIDAY (Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana) scheme, aimed at preserving and revitalizing its rich cultural legacy.
To the south of the city lies Ana Sagar Lake, an artificial water body, near which stands the revered Ajmer Sharif Dargah—the domed shrine of the Sufi saint Khwaja Muin-ud-din Chishti, also known as Garib Nawaz. This shrine remains one of the most visited religious and spiritual sites in India.
Close by, the 16th-century Akbari Fort, built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar, now houses the Ajmer Government Museum, which showcases a collection of historical armor and stone sculptures. The city is also home to Mayo College, an Indo-Saracenic–style institution whose museum features art exhibits and taxidermied birds.
In addition to its Islamic heritage, Ajmer holds great significance for followers of Jainism. The city is home to the beautifully ornate Soniji Ki Nasiyan, also known as the Golden Jain Temple, which is a marvel of religious art and architecture.
Other notable places to visit in and around Ajmer include Taragarh Fort, Akbari Fort and Museum, Nareli Jain Temple, Ana Sagar Lake, Lake Foy Sagar, Prithviraj Smarak, and the pilgrimage town of Pushkar.