Ajmer, nestled in the heart of Rajasthan, is one of those places that’s often praised for its spiritual energy, architectural wonders, and cultural charm. During my visit, I explored its top attractions, indulged in the local street food, and soaked in the serene surroundings. But despite all its highlights, I walked away with mixed feelings—and a firm decision not to return. Here’s an honest guide to the top 10 places to visit in Ajmer, and why one visit was enough for me.
No trip to Ajmer is complete without a visit to the world-famous Ajmer Sharif Dargah. The Sufi shrine of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti is a place of deep spiritual importance and draws pilgrims from across the globe. The energy, the prayers, and the soulful Qawwalis create an unforgettable experience. However, the overwhelming crowds and aggressive touts outside the dargah can dampen the spiritual atmosphere.
This man-made lake, built in the 12th century, offers a calm escape from the city's busy streets. Boating on the lake, especially at sunset, is serene and photogenic. There’s also a garden nearby where you can take a peaceful stroll. The downside? The cleanliness around the lake is often lacking, which takes away from its natural charm.
This ancient mosque built in just two and a half days is an architectural marvel. With intricate Islamic calligraphy and a blend of Indo-Islamic design, it’s a must-see for history lovers. However, the surrounding area lacks proper maintenance, and the lack of guides makes it hard to appreciate the site fully.
Perched on a hill, Taragarh Fort offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape. It’s one of the oldest hill forts in India. Hiking up to the fort is quite an adventure, but once you reach the top, you may find yourself disappointed by the lack of upkeep and information. The fort has immense potential but feels forgotten.
Also known as the Red Temple, Nasiyan Jain Temple houses one of the most exquisite gold-plated models depicting Jain cosmology. The ornate hall is nothing short of stunning and offers a unique perspective on Jain beliefs. While the temple itself is well-maintained, the area around it lacks tourist-friendly infrastructure.
Mayo College is one of India's oldest public schools and a symbol of elite British-era education. The campus is beautiful and filled with colonial charm. While you can’t explore much of it unless you have prior permission, even viewing it from the outside gives you a sense of grandeur. Still, it's more of a quick stop than a deep dive experience.
The local markets near the Clock Tower are buzzing with life. From handicrafts to traditional Rajasthani clothing, there's plenty to browse and buy. Street food lovers will enjoy trying local snacks here. However, the constant traffic and lack of pedestrian space can be exhausting, especially during peak hours.
Housed in the Akbari Fort, the Government Museum in Ajmer is a lesser-known spot but one worth visiting for history buffs. It offers a good collection of Mughal and Rajput artifacts. The exhibits, however, need better lighting and explanation. It felt like a place frozen in time, waiting for attention.
Located close to Ana Sagar Lake, Daulat Bagh is a beautiful garden built by Emperor Jehangir. It’s a peaceful place to sit and relax under the shade of old trees. While the location is scenic, the maintenance is inconsistent, and there’s often trash left behind by careless visitors.
This is one of the quieter spots in Ajmer and is ideal for picnics or simply watching the sunset. Surrounded by hills, the lake creates a perfect backdrop for photography. Unfortunately, like many other attractions, Foy Sagar suffers from neglect, with litter and algae affecting the beauty of the water.
Ajmer, for all its historical significance and spiritual aura, left me with a sense of what could have been. The city holds so much potential—breathtaking monuments, rich history, religious importance—but the lack of maintenance, constant touting, and absence of proper tourism management left a sour aftertaste. Traveling is as much about the experience as it is about the destination, and Ajmer, sadly, didn’t offer the kind of welcome that makes you want to return.
While I would still recommend visiting it once, especially as part of a larger Rajasthan Budget tour package, it’s not a place I see myself going back to.
If you're planning a day trip to the city, booking an Ajmer sightseeing taxi is a convenient option to explore the main spots without the hassle of local transport. I used the services of jodhpur taxi service, and while my overall experience in Ajmer was underwhelming, their professionalism and timely service stood out.
Ajmer is a city of contrasts—rich in history but poor in preservation, spiritually significant yet chaotic. If you’re visiting Rajasthan for the first time, it’s still worth seeing Ajmer for its iconic sites and cultural experiences. But for travelers seeking a smoother, more enriching trip, one visit may be all you need.