It is the place where two cultures meet. With temples and mosques close to each other, the harmonious blend of Hinduism and Islam gives this town a unique character. Undoubtedly, Ajmer is a true amalgam of rich Hindu and Islamic heritage. The sacred lake of Pushkar is believed by Hindus to be as old as creation, as the temple of Brahma has been a place of pilgrimage from time immemorial.

The great Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti of Persia was buried here and his Dargah is equally sacred to the followers of Islam as well as Hinduism. The Emperor Akbar made an annual visit to the shrine of the saint, sometimes on foot, as an ordinary pilgrim would.

Ajmer was a key centre of Chauhan power along with the twin capital of Delhi. Ajmer was founded by Raja Ajai Pal Chauhan in the 7th century. The Chauhans reigned here till 1193.

Prithviraj Chauhan, the last Hindu ruler of Delhi, lost it to Mohammed Ghori. Then it became part of the Delhi Sultanate. Rana Khumba of Mewar and Raja Maldeo of Marwar re-establshed Rajput rule over Ajmer.

ACCESS
Jaipur, which is 132 km away is the nearest airport and regular train services join Ajmer with nearby important cities and with Delhi. A dense network of bus services operates from Ajmer to key destinations around.

PLACES OF INTEREST
The Dargah of Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, Shah Jahan's Mosque, Adhai-din-ka-Jhonpra or Hut of two-and-a-half days, Taragarh Fort or Akbar's Fort, the Museum, Mayo College, and the Circuit House.

EXCURSIONS
Pushkar Lake (11 km), Pushkar Fair (at Pushkar, 11 km), Man Mahal (at Pushkar).

SHOPPING
Silver and gold ornaments, jewellery, tie-and-dye sarees, embroidered jodhpuri shoes are some of this city's specialities. During the annual Urs fair, folk artisans display their wares and offer a tempting range of intriguing and colourful items. Prominent shopping centres include Madar Gate, Station Road, Purani Mandi, Naya Bazar, Kaisarganj, and Nala Bazar.