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The name AJMER derives from Ajaymeru (the
invincible Hill). Founded in the 7th Century by Ajaypal Chauhan,
Ajmer is situated in a valley surrounded by Aravali Hills and it is
131 kms from Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. This city is the best
example of secular city with great religious tolerence and
brotherhood So this pious land, the harmonious blend of Hinduism and
Islam has given an unique character. Till the end of 12th Century
Chauhans dominated this area. The great Prithvi raj Chauhan
was the last ruler who was defeated by Mohammad Gauri in 1113.
Many historical events are associated with Ajmer. Sir Thomas Roe,
the ambessador of King James-l of England met King
Jahangir on 10th January 1616. DaraShikoh, the elder son of Shah
Jahan was born here, I n the war of family succession Aurangzeb won
the battle of Dorai near Ajmer in 1659.
From 1818 onwards Ajmer came under the rule of British Empire after
the treaty with Daulat Rao Scindia, the Maratha chief. The major
contribution of the British is legancy of excellent educational
institutions in Ajmer. The city has a population of about 5 lakhs in
total area of 55.3 sq. kms. Ajmer is at 486 meters from sea level.
Maximum temperature during summer is 43.7 C and minimum of 37.7C
while in winter the maximum temperature is 23.3 C and minimum of 5.5
C. Hindi, Rajasthani, Urdu and Sindhi are languages spoken at Ajmer.
Ajmer is very good for sight seeing and excursions. Few of them are
listed here.
DARGAH KHWAJA SAHIB:
One of the holiest Shrine of Muslims in India, is
the landmark of Ajmer in the form of Dargah Khwaja Sahib. Pilgrims
in large number from all over India and abroad visit this place to
pay homage, which is final resting place of the great Sufi Saint
Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti the bestower of Boons, better known Garib
Nawaz, The shrine was built in the early 13th century Every year URS
is observed on death anniversary of Khwaja from 1st to 6th day of
Islamic month of Rajab. This shrine is considered next to Mecca
& Madina for the Muslims of South Asia. The main tomb is richly
adorned with gold and silver. Other tombs in the courtyard are of
the Bhishti, tomb of Hafiz Jamal, the saints daughter and the tomb
of Chimni Begum, one of the daughters of Emperor Shah Jahan. The
Shah Jahan's mosque is most notable of all the sanctums in the
Dargah.
NASIYAN (RED) TEMPLE :
It is a Digamber Jain temple which was built in
1865. Double storey hall adjacent to the temple houses Golden city (Swarna
Nagari), a series of large gold plated wooden figures from Jain
mythology. Entire hall is richly adorned with glass, precious
stones, gold and silver mosaic work- It is popularly known as Soni
Ji ki Nasiyan after its owner's name.
TARAGARH FORT:
It is situated about 1300 feet above sea level
and guarding the city. It was built in 1113 A.D- by founder ruler of
the city Ajaypal of Chauhan dynasty-In earlier days Taragarh fort
was only accessibly by a steep trekking path, but now a motorable
road has been built. Entire fort area is guarded by rampart wall and
fourteen bastions. It has 6 important gates, namely Laxmi Pol, Phuta
Darwaja, BadaDarwaja, Bhawani Pol, Mathi Pol and Arkot Darwaja. It
is also known by the name of Ml RAN SAHEB ki Dargah. Mira Sayyed
Mashhadi was governor of fort.
ADHAI DIN KA JHONPRA :
It is a relic of an old mosque. It was originally
a Sanskrit College which was destroyed by Mohd. Ghori, who ordered
to convert this place into a mosque within two and half days. The
pillars within still retain the Hindu stylistic elements. It was
built in two and half day (Adhai din).
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