The Ajmer Sharif Dargah is considered to be among the holiest Muslim shrines in India and is also a famous landmark in Ajmer. Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chishti, the Sufi saint from Persia is enshrined here. In keeping with his secular teachings, its doors are open to people of all faiths and religions. Some say that Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chishti believed he was a direct descendant of Muhammad and preached his beliefs to the masses. While on his world travel, he was urged by Muhammad, in a dream, to visit India. He reached Ajmer, via Lahore, and made it his home from 1192 till his death in 1236 AD. The shrine was built by Mughal King Humayun in honour of this saint. You can step inside the Dargah through a series of massive silver doors that lead into a courtyard where the saint's tomb is centred. Made of marble and gold plating, the actual tomb is guarded by a silver railing and a marble screen. During his reign, Emperor Akbar made a pilgrimage to Ajmer every year. He, as well as Emperor Shah Jahan, built mosques inside the shrine complex. Visitors to the shrine are awed by the atmosphere of peace and serenity that the combined effects of flowers, sweets and burning incense sticks create.
History of Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Hasan Chisti:
Hazrat Khawaja Moinuddin Hasan Chishti was called in different names such as, Khawaja Gharib Nawaz, “Sultan-Ul-Hind”, Khwaja Baba, Khwaja Gharib Nawaz Ajmeri, Khwaja Sahib, Khwaja Saheb, Khwaja Ajmeri Saint Moinuddin Chisti. The saint was not really fascinated about material and earthly objects. He was born in Chisiti region of East Persia around 1142 A.D. While he was in an attempt of preaching the superior way of existence to the community, he visited India and settled back in Ajmer region of Rajasthan. In Ajmer, Saint Moinuddin Chisti fascinated many clique. The group also included many mighty emperors and other aristocrats. He also accomplished the “Sufi Sulh-e-Kulh” in Ajmer which highlighted on the unity and harmony of Hindu and Muslim religions.
The valued buildings and different rich bequests that are dedicated to the Dargah of Khwaja Saheb are the existing monuments and reminders of his continued support cherished by the citizens of India for more than 750 years.
How to Reach Ajmer Dargah
Ajmer in Rajasthan is a well-connected city. It is connected to almost many famous cities in the country either by rail, road or air.
By Air: The Jaipur airport is the closest to the city of Ajmer. From the airport, you can either hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the Ajmer Sharif Dargah.
By Rail: The Indian Railway Network is one of the most well-connected services in India. There would be regular trains from essential places in the country to Ajmer, either directly or by a change in two trains to help you reach the city. From the station, you can book a cab or take a local bus to reach the Ajmer Sharif Dargah.
By Road: Though hiring a cab is an option, it would be advised to take regular buses that ply between important cities to Ajmer regularly. There would be direct buses to Ajmer from Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer that will help you reach the destination. From the bus stop, you can take a taxi or another local bus to reach the Ajmer Dargah.
Ajmer Tourism is one of those cities in Rajasthan that offers a trip back to ancient times. Surrounded by the magnificent Aravali Mountains, this city is situated in the northwestern region of India. With a plethora of medieval architecture and pilgrimage sites, Ajmer is engulfed with a historic vibe. It is also home to many museums, something that really brings a boost to Ajmer tourism. The forts and palaces situated here make for an astounding tourist location. This place is the eye candy of many histories and architecture enthusiasts. Anyone with a heart for ancient and royal should definitely plan to spend a few days in Ajmer. Ana Sagar Lake, the shrine of Garib Nawaz, Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Ajmer Government Museum, Indo-Saracenic–style Mayo College are some of the most intriguing places to visit in Ajmer.