Ajmer Sharif Dargah - pushkaradventuredesertcamp

About Dargah Sharif Ajmer

The Dargah Sharif Ajmer, also known as Ajmer Sharif Dargah, is one of India's most revered spiritual landmarks. Each year, millions of devotees, tourists, and scholars from India and abroad visit Ajmer, Rajasthan, to pay their respects at this Sufi shrine, home to the tomb of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti.

The dargah is located approximately 22 km from Pushkar Adventure Desert Camp, making it an easy addition to a Pushkar itinerary.

History of Ajmer Sharif Dargah

The Dargah Sharif Ajmer is the final resting place of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, a revered Sufi saint who came to Ajmer from Persia in the 12th century and founded the Chishti Order of Sufism in India. Known widely as "Gharib Nawaz" (Benefactor of the Poor), his message of love, tolerance, and service to humanity drew followers across all faiths.

Construction of the shrine began under Sultan Iltutmish and was later expanded by Mughal emperors, most notably Akbar, who would walk barefoot from Agra to Ajmer as an act of devotion. This Mughal patronage is why the dargah complex today blends Persian, Mughal, and Rajasthani architectural styles into one striking monument.

The shrine holds the unique distinction of being revered by Hindus, Muslims, and people of other faiths alike, making it one of the most inclusive pilgrimage sites in India, a true symbol of Rajasthan's syncretic culture.

What to See Inside the Dargah ?

Buland Darwaza : the towering main gate marking the entrance to the shrine.
Akbari Masjid : a mosque built by Emperor Akbar within the complex.
Shah Jahani Masjid : an elegant white marble mosque added by Shah Jahan.
The Main Mazaar (Tomb) : the marble-domed sanctum of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, silver-railed and covered with rose petals and chadars offered by devotees.
Degs (Giant Cauldrons) : two massive iron cauldrons used to cook and distribute food (niaz) to pilgrims, a tradition still followed today.
Qawwali Sessions : soulful Sufi devotional music performed near the shrine, especially powerful to experience in the evenings.

Ajmer Sharif Dargah Visiting Hours & Entry Details

Opening Hours: 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM (summers); 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM (winters), though hours can shift slightly around festivals.
Entry Fee: Free for all visitors.
Best Time to Visit: Early mornings, between October and March
Ideal Duration: 1–2 hours.
Urs Festival: The Ajmer Urs Mela, held annually in the Islamic month of Rajab, marks the saint's death anniversary and draws large numbers of pilgrims for six days of prayer, music, and celebration. Visitors planning a trip during this period are advised to arrange accommodation well in advance, as this is peak season.

Dress Code & Etiquette for Ajmer Sharif Dargah

Dress modestly, Visitors should cover their heads before entering the shrine.
Remove shoes before entering the inner shrine (shoe stands are available).
Photography may be restricted in certain inner areas, check with local guides on-site.
Donations (nazrana) and offerings of chadar or rose petals are optional and can be purchased from stalls just outside the dargah.

How to Reach Ajmer Dargah

Ajmer, in Rajasthan, is a well-connected city, accessible from almost all major cities in the country by rail, road, or air.

By Air: Kishangarh Airport is the nearest airport to Ajmer. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ajmer Sharif Dargah.
By Rail: Ajmer is well served by the Indian Railway network, with regular trains from major cities across the country, either direct or with one change. From Ajmer railway station, visitors can book a cab or take a local bus to reach the dargah.
By Road: While hiring a cab is an option, regular buses connecting major cities to Ajmer are also available and recommended. Direct buses run to Ajmer from Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer. From the Ajmer bus stand, a taxi or local bus can be taken to reach the dargah.
Distance from Pushkar Adventure Desert Camp: Approximately 22 km.

For assistance with transportation and tour guide services, please reach out to us.

Combined sightseeing: Many visitors also see Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra, Ana Sagar Lake, and Taragarh Fort in Ajmer on the same day, before returning to Pushkar in the evening.

Stay Near Ajmer Sharif

Pushkar Adventure Desert Camp, located 22 km away, offers a convenient base for visitors combining a trip to the dargah with camel safaris, desert camping, and other Pushkar experiences. Day trips to Ajmer Sharif can be arranged directly through the camp.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. How far is Dargah Sharif Ajmer from Pushkar Adventure Desert Camp?

Ajmer Sharif Dargah is approximately 22 km from Pushkar Adventure Desert Camp.

Q2. What is the best time to visit Ajmer Sharif Dargah?

The best time to visit is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant. Early mornings are recommended for a quieter and more peaceful experience. A visit typically takes 1–2 hours.

Q3. Is there an entry fee for Dargah Sharif Ajmer?

No, entry to the dargah is free for all visitors regardless of faith.

Q4. Can I visit Ajmer Sharif Dargah and stay at Pushkar Adventure Desert Camp on the same trip?

Absolutely. Many travellers combine a visit to Ajmer Sharif Dargah with a stay at Pushkar Adventure Desert Camp to experience both the spiritual heritage of Ajmer and the cultural charm of Pushkar. We can also assist with transportation arrangements to make your journey convenient and hassle-free.

Plan Your Visit to Ajmer Sharif and Pushkar

A stay at Pushkar Adventure Desert Camp offers an ideal base for visitors wishing to combine a pilgrimage to Dargah Sharif Ajmer with the desert experiences Pushkar is known for, including camel safaris, cultural evenings, and traditional Rajasthani hospitality.

For assistance with transportation, tour guide services, and itinerary planning, please reach out to us.

Plan Your Trip

Note: Please verify current dargah timings and any entry guidelines directly with local authorities before your visit, as these may change during festivals or for security reasons.