Discover Ajmer: Lakes, Architecture and Pushkar
Accommodation in Ajmer
Ajmer brings together lakes and distinctive buildings with diverse religious and cultural traditions. Ana Sagar is a large lake in the heart of the city, while historic buildings and sweeping views shape the landscape on the surrounding hills. Nearby is Pushkar, a sacred Hindu site with its own spiritual significance. When choosing a holiday rental as a base for your trip, you can consider whether Ajmer’s urban and cultural history or Pushkar’s religious traditions should be the main focus.
Architecture, History and Handicrafts
Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra is a 12th-century building whose design combines Hindu and Islamic elements. The Victoria Jubilee Clock Tower represents a different architectural period: it was built in 1887 and is considered an example of British architecture. Akbari Fort and Museum, in turn, is a structure built by Akbar in the characteristic Mughal style. Those interested in different historical influences will find a variety of architectural styles and periods in Ajmer, rather than a single, uniform cityscape.
Individual sites also tell their stories in their own distinctive ways. Taragarh Fort is a hilltop fortress of the Chauhan dynasty overlooking Ajmer and offering views of the city. Prithviraj Smarak commemorates Prithviraj Chauhan; the memorial is also on a hill and offers expansive views of Ajmer and the Aravalli Range. On a trip with children, these different buildings and stories can provide opportunities to talk together about the region’s changing eras and notable figures.
The Ajmer Government Museum preserves archaeological artefacts, stone sculptures, inscriptions and armour. Mayo College is one of India’s oldest independent boarding schools; its building is an example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. The handicraft tradition of Ajmer district includes leather, marble and textile work. It also encompasses metal bells, patchwork, quilts and pillowcases. This variety offers another perspective on the region beyond its buildings.
Ana Sagar and Views of the Aravalli Range
Ana Sagar is a major attraction in Ajmer. Its distinctive structures include the marble pavilions by the lake, known as baradaris, which were added by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. The lake and pavilions bring the landscape together with a specific historical detail. Lake Foy Sagar offers a different perspective on the Aravalli Range: this artificial lake was created in 1892 and affords views of the range. If you particularly enjoy water and scenery, you can include these two lakes in your travel plans as distinct Ajmer attractions.
Pushkar: Sacred Site and Annual Fair
Pushkar is near Ajmer and is a sacred Hindu site. It is home to the only known temple dedicated to Lord Brahma. The Pushkar Fair, also known as the Pushkar Camel Fair or Pushkar Mela, is an annual five-day camel and livestock fair held in Pushkar between October and November. It offers a different focus from Ajmer’s buildings and lakes: a fair centred on camels and livestock. The Urs festival at Ajmer Sharif Dargah commemorates the saint’s death anniversary and draws large crowds. The two festivals differ in their purpose and character; when planning your trip, consider whether your interests lie more with the Pushkar Fair or Ajmer’s religious history.
Ajmer is well connected by road and rail. When choosing a holiday rental, both Ajmer’s own attractions and lakes and nearby Pushkar may therefore play a part. If you mainly want to explore architecture, museum collections and the cityscape, focus your search on Ajmer; for the sacred site and the Pushkar Fair, Pushkar is the main destination. The different local destination pages for the Ajmer area: Pushkar, Ajmer, Beawar, Kishangarh, Kekri and Kharwa.
For the broader travel overview: Rajasthan.
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