Indian States - Rajasthan

Places of interest in Rajasthan Ajmer
Ajmer was founded by Raja Ajaipal Chauhan in the 7th century AD. It was under the rule of the Chauhans until it was lost by Prithviraj Chauhan to Mohammed Ghori. But later, Rana Kumbha of Mewar and Raja Maldeo of Marwar reestablished Rajput rule here. It is situated about 130 kms South West of Jaipur, at the foot of a hill.

Hinduism and Islam co-exist here with the Pushkar temples, lake & the Dargah of Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti.

Dargah of Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti

is the tomb of the Sufi Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti (1142-1236 AD). Muslim devotees visit during the Urs Mela of the saint, lasting 6 days. The devotees sing Qawwals in praise of the saint's virtues and offer an embroidered cloth called chadars at his grave. This shrine was visited by Akbar, Shah Jehan, Jehangir. Emperor Akbar is said to have worshipped here seeking the saint's blesiing for a son.

Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti' shrine

Urs Mela, offering chadars

Nasiyan

This is a red Digambara (Jain) temple built in the late 19th century. In a double storeyed hall, there is a splendid display of wooden gilt representations, glass engravings & paintings describing the Jain faith about the creation of the world.

Nasiyan - Jain Temple

Adhai-Din-Ka-Jhonpara

is a mosque built by Mohammed Ghori in 1193 AD in just two and a half days, considered to be built on the ruins of a college and temples.

Lake Ana Sagar

is a placid artificial lake built in the 12th century by Anaji Chauhan and the embankment was further beautified by the Moghul Emperors Jehangit and Shah Jehan.

Taragarh Fort

was built by Ajaipal Chauhan in the 7th century AD.

Pushkar

is the holy lake of the Hindus. The town lies 11 kms form Ajmer and is seperated from Ajmer by the Nag Pahar (Snake mountain). Near the lake is the Brahma temple.

Brahma Temple It is believed that Lord Brahma was looking for a suitable place for performing a vedic yagna. A lotus from his hand fell on the earth and water is said to have sprouted in the spot, which was Pushkar. This was the holy spot chosen by Lord Brahma for his yagna.

Holy dip in the Pushkar Lake Click on image for enlarged version

Camel Mela Click on image for enlarged version

On the full moon day in November (Karthika Pournami), hindu pilgrims gather here to take a holy dip in the sacred waters of the Pushkar lake and thank the weather Gods. The Pushkar Fair is another great attraction, when every item is available for purchase for the villagers. There is joyful singing and dancing. The camel mela one of the most interesting features of the Pushkar mela extends for a fortnight (begins at the new moon after Diwali, extending upto the Karthika Pournami). The location will be filled with camels, horses and cattle and there will be a grand cattle auction on Karthika Pournami. Beautiful decorative pieces for the animals are sold at the fair. The camel race, tug of wars and camel rides are also very interesting.

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