Ajmer, an ancient pilgrimage town is situated on the banks of the Ana Sagar Lake at an altitude of 486 meters above sea level. Historically, Ajmer had considerable strategic importance and was sacked by Mohammad Ghori on one of his periodic forays from Afghanistan. Later it became a favorite residence of the mighty Mughal. Ajmer is a major center for Muslim pilgrims during the fast of Ramadan and has some impressive Muslim architecture. It houses the Dargah or tomb of the popular 13th century Sufi saint, Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Hasan Chishti The city also boasts of a number of monuments dating back to the Mughal era.The small town of Ajmer played a surprisingly important role in India's history. Set at the point where the rocky Aravalli Hills end and the Thar Desert begins, this was originally the stronghold of the powerful Chauhan Dynasty of Rajputs, who built India's first ever hill fort here in the 7th century. Ajmer was founded by a Rajput chieftain Raja Ajaipal Chauhan, who also built first hill fort in India, the Taragarh As the fort was supposed to be invincible, it was named Ajai Meru (the Invincible Hill). Ajmer was brought under the control of Delhi Sultanate in 1193, when Ajaipal Chauhan was defeated by Muhammad Ghori. It was later returned to the local chieftains as a small tribute. Ajmer also played an important role in paving the way for British East India Company in India. In 1616, Jahangir met ambassador of King James, Sir Thomas Roe. That was the first meeting between any Mughal Emperor and representatives of Britain. In the 17th century, Shah Jahan built marble pavilions around the Ana Sagar Lake. The Taragarh Fort was damaged badly during the Mughal war of succession between Aurangzeb and Dara Shikoh. The Scindia rulers of Gwalior took over Ajmer in the mid 18th century, to be handed over to the British in 1818.
How to reach here:
By Air: The nearest airport to Ajmer is the Sanganer Airport located at Jaipur, which is about 130 km from Ajmer.Jaipur airport is connected to metro cities like Mumbai and Delhi.
By Rail: Ajmer junction railway station lies on the Delhi-Mumbai railway line and is well connected to several cities in India.
Best time to visit: October to March.
Languages spoken: Hindi, Rajasthani, Marwari and English.
Must eat: Daal Bati Churma, Ghewar.
Famous Restaurants: Mansingh, Bhola, Honeydew, Jai Hind, Tandoor.
Places you must visit:
Taragarh Fort is located atop the Nag pahari in Ajmer. Often considered as the first hill fort of Asia, it is also known as the 'Fort of Ajmer'. It was constructed at a time when the Aravalli mountain ranges were above the snowlines.Built by King Ajay Pal Chauhan on the pinnacle of Taragarh Hill, overlooking Ajmer, it has the reputation of being one of the oldest hill forts of the world. It is often called as the 'Star Fort', dating back from the 12th century.Built in the year 1100 A.D by Ajay Pal Chauhan, the town's founder, the fort was the site of military activities during Mughal times. Lakshmi Pol, Phuta Darwaza and Gagudi ki Phatak are the three gateways of the fort. Bhim Burj that acts as a crenellation and support for the canons is amongst the highlights of the fort. The fort also contains many reservoirs, carved out of the solid rock.
Dargah Sharif, venerated by both Hindus and Muslims is the tomb of Khwaja Muin-ud-din Chishti. He was a Sufi saint who came from Persia and devoted his life to the service and welfare of the poor and downtrodden. Constructed in several stages, the gate with silver doors forms the entrance of the site. The actual tomb of the saint is enveloped by a silver railing and a marble screen. This has been made of marble and a gold plated dome.In his remembrance, every year 'Urs' is held in this region for six days. The duration has religious significance, owing to the belief that when he was 114 years old, the saint locked himself in a room for six days to pray, and left his mortal body in solitude. It is believed that the cauldrons were offered by Emperor Akbar when the saint blessed him with a heir to his throne. Located at the foot of a small and barren hill in Ajmer, the tomb was built by Humayun. Constructed with white marble, the tomb has 11 arches and a Persian inscription.
Archaeological Museum was established in 1949. Located in the Dil-e-Aaram Gardens of Ajmer, the museum is divided into three sections. Comprising a collection of sculptures and some excavated material of earlier civilisations, the museum features two 'Yupa Pillars' (sacrificial posts). These are adorned with inscriptions from Barnala as well as Prathihara sculptures of the 8th century and terracotta belonging to early historical periods.Once situated in the ancient capital of Jaipur, the museum is home to the dug up material from Rairh, Bairat, Sambhar, Nagar and other destinations. In addition to this, sculptures and inscriptions gathered from various sights in the former Jaipur State that were housed at Vidyadhar Gardens are also showcased in the museum.
Rani Mahal was built for the wives, concubines and paramours of the rulers. Located in the Taragarh Fort, this edifice today comprises of faded murals and broken stained glass windows. The structure displays typical Rajasthani architecture. The one-time Chauhan stronghold provides an aerial view of the Aravalli ranges and the entire valley.
Built by Emperor Akbar, the elegant citadel better known as Akbar's Palace and Museum is a popular tourist destination. This was the meeting place of Jahangir and Sir Thomas Roe, the English Ambassador to the Mughal court. It was built in 1570 AD and was considered one of the strongest citadels in Rajasthan. It was meant for the stay of the Emperor and his troops for their stay in Ajmer.This fort was converted into an ostentatious museum in 1908 and showcases ancient Hindu idols of the 6th and 7th century and of later years that portray an intertwined Rajput and Mughal styles. One of the famous displays is the large black marble statue of Goddess Kali within the displays. There are galleries that present the age old military and war equipments, ancient artillery and arsenals, sculptures and stone sculptures.
A beautiful monument of the 17th century, Roopangarh Fort illuminates royal elegance was built by the Maharaja Roop Singh. Roopangarh Fort showcases the royal lifestyle of the kings like the open log fires, olden passageways, regal furniture, jails, armories granaries, foundries etc. The fort has been refurbished and converted into a luxury hotel while keeping the royal elegance intact.
Ana Sagar Lake has been named after Anaji Chauhan. It is an artificial lake built by Anaji Chauhan, the grandfather of Prithvi Raj Chauhan. Dating from 1135 -1150 AD, the lake comprises catchments that were built with the help of local populace. Spread over 13 km, the lake also comprises Baradari or pavilions that were built by Shah Jahan in 1637.The Durga Bagh Gardens,located in the area of the lake were built by Jehangir. A dam across the river Luni, the lake is surrounded by beautiful parks and marble pavilions. An island lies in the middle of the lake. To beautify the lake, additional constructions were made by the Mughal emperors.On a hill near the lake is located a Circuit House that used to be the British Residency. From the east side of the Daulat Bagh Gardens, tourists can hire boat or water scooter to reach the island. Every summer, the lake gets dry.
Foy Sagar Lake was built and supervised by Mr. Foy, a British architect. Since its construction in 1891 the Foy Sagar is a pictorial and important source of water, especially portable. This magnificent lake amazes the onlookers with its real natural beauty. This artificial lake was a part of drought relief project. Due to its unique flat shape it looks like a pancake. Today it is a beautiful picnic spot popular with locals and tourists alike.
A charming garden on the banks of the majestic Ana Sagar Lake is Durga Bagh. The park built in 1868 AD by Maharaja Shiv Dan is a lush garden with numerous flowers and is one of the best known gardens in Ajmer. The marble pavilions constructed by the Emperor Shah Jahan also add more visual grandeur to the park. The background titled Shimal was added by Maharaja Mangal Singh to add scenic beauty to the garden.
Mayo College was built with an aim to provide the leaders of the princely states with an education of British standards. Founded by the 6th Earl of Mayo, who was the Viceroy of India from 1869 to 1872, the public school was built by British Raj to give education to the Indian elite, particularly the princes and nobles of Rajputana. Major Mant designed the main building of the college in the Indo-Saracenic style popularised by Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob, the State Engineer of Jaipur. Made of white marble, the building displays a classic symbol of Indo-Saracenic architecture. Although the building was completed in 1885, it’s construction began in 1877. The museum which is housed in Jhalawar House contains many antiques and armoury section. Coat of arms of the college comprises a design furnished by Mr. Lockwood Kipling, a former Principal of the School of Arts, Lahore and father of Rudyard Kipling.
Adhai-din ka Jhonpra is a mosque that is believed to have been built in two and a half days. Originally a Sanskrit college, the edifice was converted into a mosque in 1198 by Muhammad Ghori. The mosque has been enveloped by a seven-arched wall that is inscribed with verses from the Koran. An example of early Indo-Islamic architecture, the mosque was designed by Abu Bakr of Herat. Built from masonry taken from broken down Hindu and Jain temples, it comprises pillars which hold up the ceiling in the main chamber.Sultan Altamush in 1230 AD added a jali (screen) under a raised arch. People can enter the mosque from the gateway in the north. A number of small arches built of yellow limestone adorn the front façade. Flanked by six smaller arches of Arab origin, the main arch has many tiny rectangular panels. These serve as a lighting system, a feature found in ancient Arabian mosques.A main hall supported by numerous columns forms the interior of the edifice. To gain more height, the pillars have been placed over each other. The columns have large and bulbous bases that taper as they gain height.
Anted ki Mata temple,this Jain temple reflects the traditional culture and saints of the Jain Digamber Sect. The temple showcases numerous chhatris and chabutras while the detailed paintings, carvings and other sculptures over the cenotaphs symbolize the rich tradition and culture of Jain community. Rakshabandan, the festival of brotherhood is celebrated with great pomp and show at this temple.
Sola Khamba was built during the reign of Aurangzeb. It was named so because of the 16 pillars that support it’s roof. It is also known as the Shaikh Ala-al-Din’s tomb. The saint, who was the overseer of the shrine of Khwaja Muin-ud-din Chishti, constructed his own tomb in four years beginning from 1659. Completed in 1660, it is located just outside the Dargah Sharif.Trio of cusped arches leading up to the flat roof adorn the edifice. Constructed in white marble, the edifice has arches that rise four slender minarets from each corner. Most distinguishing feature of the edifice is the cusped arches. It is one of the oldest mosques in India and is based on a courtyard plan with a portico at its eastern side.The roofed space of the main building is almost 1,399 sq. ft in area, while the portico covers an area of 1,001 sq. ft. Cusped arches of the mosque are the most distinguishing attribute of the architecture dating back to Aurangzeb’s reign.
Pushkar Lake, considered to be sacred is said to cleanse sins and cure skin diseases with a dip. It is located in the town of Pushkar in Ajmer district and is the sacred lake of the Hindus. Historical significance of the lake is evident from the fact that it finds it’s mention on coins as early as the 4th century BC. Surrounded by 52 bathing ghats, the lake has been described by Hindu scriptures as 'Tirtha-Raj', meaning 'the king of pilgrimage sights'.It is considered sacred, owing to it’s relation with a water-body and the mythology of the creator-god Brahma, whose most prominent temple stands in Pushkar. Known as 'Naga Parbat', Aravalli range of hills separate the lake from the city of Ajmer.Formed between the two parallel ranges of the Aravalli hills, the valley runs south-west to north-east. The artificial Pushkar Lake lies at a distance of 14 km to the north-west of Ajmer.
Nasiyan Temple, built in 1865 is located at Prithvi Raj Marg in Ajmer. It is also known as Lal Mandir (Red Temple). Dedicated to Lord Adinath, the first Jain 'tirthankara', the temple is a two-storied structure. Divided into two parts, the temple belongs to the Digamber sect.One part of the temple is the worship area comprising the idol of Lord Adinath, while the other forms a museum and includes a hall. Made of gold, the interior of the museum depicts the five stages (Panch Kalyanak) in the life of Lord Adinath. Within it’s 3,200 sq.ft area, the interior is adorned with Belgium stain glass, mineral colour paintings and stain glass work Recognised as the Golden Temple (Swarna Mandir), the temple has a focal hall that is embellished with gold and silver decorations. The temple also showcases wooden gild representations, glass engravings and paintings. It’s alternate name as 'Soni Ji Ki Nasiyan' has been derived by it’s being festooned with precious stones, gold and silver work.
Daulat Khana, or the Government Museum houses a rich collection of Mughal and Rajput armoury. This Rajputana Museum houses fine and delicate sculptures of the region. The museum was the residence of the Mughal Emperors; Akbar and Jahangir during their visits to the Dargah Sharif between 1613 to 1616.Surrounded by two thick walls, the museum contains a board placed outside indicating that Sir Thomas Roe, the celebrated English ambassador was first received here by the Emperor. Hindu statues, which date back to the 8th century along with examples of Rajput and Mughal armour are the prominent exhibits of the museum. Another notable piece that adorns the museum is the statue of Goddess Kali.Established in October 1908 under the initiative of Lord Curzon and Sir John Marshall, the museum is also known as 'Magazine'. It is home to sculptures that belong to Pushkar, Adhai-din ka Jhonpra, Baghera, Pisangan, Harsnath (Sikar) Bharatpur, Sirohi, Arthuna and Osian. In the museum are also displayed pre-historic relics and cast of seals with pictographs which were discovered at Mohanjodaro in the Indus valley.
Bharatpur Museum is situated inside the Lohagarh Fort. Comprising an assortment of ancient exhibits and archaeological wealth, the museum building once served as the administrative block for the rulers of Bharatpur. At this time, the palatial building was known as 'Kachahari Kalan'. In the year 1944, it was converted to a museum. Prominent exhibits of the museum include sculptures designed in the Ist century AD. Within the Art Gallery of the museum are housed samples of miniature paintings that were once made on the leaves of mica, peepal tree and old litho-papers. Inside the gallery are also displayed paintings of the Maharajas of Bharatpur. Within the museum, tourists can also view guns and cannons that were used during the 18th century AD.Archaeology, Children’s Gallery, Armoury, Arts and Crafts and Industry are the four sections into which the museum has been segmented. Started in 1908 by the Government of India, the museum was an initiative for collecting and preserving many unique objects of antiquarian interest, which were lying uncared for and scattered all over Rajasthan.
The simple yet elegant Abdullah Khan's Tomb is built in 1710 AD using white marble the tomb is a splendid memoir that was constructed by Sayyaid brothers for their father. The tomb is located on a raised platform with four steps. The rectangular tomb has been designed with four towers and bended arches that are ornamental. The tomb reflects the designs of later Mughal era and a plaque mentions another mosque close to it but all that remains today is another imposing tomb of Abdullah Khan's wife.
Bhim Burj and Garbha Gunjan are located within the Taragarh Fort. Garbha Gunjan is a cannon that was housed under the Bhim Burj. This structure is a stone tower within the precincts of the fort. It’s massiveness is evident from the fact that it ranks second in size in India. Near the site are located water reservoirs that were used for the storage and supply of water to the public in case of water scarcity.
Mandir Shri Nimbark Peeth was established with the objective to liberate people from the tyrannical practices of a Tantrika Fiquir Masting Shah. In addition to this, it also serves to propagate Vaishnava doctrines. The temple was founded by the Bhati chief of Khejarli Shri Sheoji and Gopal Singh Ji Bhati. Unique design of the temple enables the deity to be visible for Darshan right from the moment devotees enter the main gate. To reach the main entrance, devotees need to climb a flight of seven steps. Typical of the architectural designs adopted for the main gate of a temple in the 15th century, two small upraised gates adorn the main gate. Built on 42 thousand sq.ft land, the temple has pillars made of marble that are ornamented. The temple has been constructed using yellow soil, lime mortar, stone and marble. Aim behind the establishment of the temple was to inspire holy sentiments of erotic love of Shri Radhakrishna, and to propagate the eternal Vedic Sanatan Dharma amongst Vaishnavas.
Shah Jahan's Mosque is housed within the inner courtyards of the Dargah Sharif. Made of white marble, the edifice has a 30.5 metres long and narrow court having a low arcade. The sanctum has delicate carvings with trellis works. Featuring 11 arches, the mosque has been constructed in typical Mughal architectural style.Having a height of 41 metres, the mosque is topped by a beautiful marble dome. It is believed that the marble for building the dome was extracted from the same mines from where marble for Taj Mahal was extracted. Built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, the mosque is green and white coloured.
Mangliyawas is located at a distance of 26 km from Ajmer, on the National Highway 8 (NH 8) towards Beawar. Noted for two, 800-year-old trees of rare species, the town is thronged by devotees in the months of 'Sravana'. Popularly known as 'Kalpa-Vrikhsha', these Adansonia Digitata Linn trees are believed to fulfil the desires of the devotees. At this site, devotees tie a thread around the trees in hope of their wishes being granted.
Akbari Masjid is located between Shahjahani Gate and Buland Darwaza in Dargah Sharif. Erected By Akbar with red sandstone the mosque dates back from 1571. Now Moiniua Usmania Darul-Uloom, an Arabic and Persian School for religious education, the mosque is made up of green and white marbles. Mughal Emperor Akbar built this mosque when his prayers for a heir at the Dargah Sharif were answered.
No comments:
Post a Comment