Ajmer, a city steeped in history and spirituality, is a gateway to some of Rajasthan’s most enchanting destinations. Nestled in the Aravalli Range, places to visit near Ajmer Rajasthan, offer travellers a perfect mix of cultural richness and natural beauty. From sacred pilgrimage sites to majestic forts and tranquil lakes, the area surrounding Ajmer is replete with diverse attractions. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or a spiritual seeker, the places to visit near Ajmer cater to all interests, providing a comprehensive Rajasthani experience.
10 Popular Places To Visit Near Ajmer Rajasthan
Below are ten exciting places to see near Ajmer, offering unique experiences for all types of travellers.
1. Pushkar
Pushkar, one of the oldest cities in India, is a sacred pilgrimage site and a unique attraction near Ajmer for tourists. The city is famous for its Brahma Temple, one of the few in the world dedicated to Lord Brahma. The serene Pushkar Lake, surrounded by 52 bathing ghats, is the focal point of the city and a site for ritual baths during auspicious times. Pushkar is also renowned for its annual Camel Fair, a vibrant spectacle that attracts visitors from around the globe. The fair showcases Rajasthani culture with folk performances, camel races, and a bustling market.
Distance From Ajmer: 15 km
2. Taragarh Fort
Photo: Daniel Villafruela / Wikimedia Commons
Taragarh Fort, also known as the “Star Fort,” is perched atop a hill overlooking Ajmer. Built in 1354 AD, it’s one of the oldest hill forts in India. The fort’s strategic location offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. Despite being in ruins, Taragarh Fort still showcases impressive architecture with its grand gateways, reservoirs, and the famous Bhim Burj, the largest cannon on the fort. The trek to the fort is an adventure in itself, rewarding visitors with stunning vistas and a sense of history.
Distance From Ajmer: 3 km
3. Ana Sagar Lake
Photo: Jakub Hałun / Wikimedia Commons
Ana Sagar Lake is an artificial lake created in the 12th century by Anaji Chauhan, grandfather of Prithviraj Chauhan. This picturesque water body is surrounded by the Aravalli hills and the Daulat Bagh gardens, offering a serene retreat from the bustling city. The lake’s promenade, known as the Dargah Bazaar, is perfect for evening strolls and enjoying the sunset. Boating facilities allow visitors to enjoy the lake’s calm waters. The nearby Daulat Bagh, a beautiful Mughal-style garden with fountains and pavilions, adds to the lake’s charm.
Distance From Ajmer: 4 km
4. Kishangarh
Photo: Sunilkumawatsunil / Wikimedia Commons
Kishangarh, often referred to as the “Marble City of India,” is renowned for its unique style of miniature paintings and its thriving marble industry. The city’s artistic legacy is evident in the famous Kishangarh school of painting, known for its distinctive style and the iconic “Bani Thani” portrait. Visitors can explore the grand Kishangarh Fort, which houses a museum showcasing the city’s artistic treasures. The Phool Mahal Palace, now converted into a heritage hotel, offers a glimpse into royal living. The city’s marble markets are the beautiful attractions near Ajmer for those interested in stone craftsmanship.
Distance From Ajmer: 27 km
5. Nareli Jain Temple
Photo: Gourav mainali / Wikimedia Commons
Nareli Jain Temple, also known as Shri Gyandoaya Tirth Kshetra, is a relatively new addition to Ajmer’s religious landscape. This modern Jain temple complex, completed in 2015, is a stunning example of contemporary Jain architecture. The temple consists of 24 mini temples representing the 24 Tirthankaras of Jainism. The main temple, with its intricate carvings and beautiful sculptures, is a marvel of craftsmanship. The complex also includes a meditation hall and a knowledge centre, offering insight into Jain philosophy and culture.
Distance From Ajmer: 7 km
6. Foy Sagar Lake
Photo: eberhard grossgasteiger / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Foy Sagar Lake, the best place to visit near Ajmer, is an artificial lake built as a famine relief project in 1892. This tranquil water body offers a peaceful retreat away from the city’s hustle and bustle. Surrounded by the Aravalli hills, the lake presents a picturesque setting, especially during sunrise and sunset. It’s an ideal spot for picnics, nature walks, and bird-watching. The lake also serves as a popular location for film shoots due to its scenic beauty. The lake’s banks are a perfect tourist attraction near Ajmer for photography enthusiasts to capture the changing hues of the sky reflected in the calm waters.
Distance From Ajmer: 9 km
7. Mayo College
Photo: Dabas.suraj / Wikimedia Commons
Mayo College, often referred to as the “Eton of India,” is one of the oldest public boarding schools in the country. Founded in 1875, the college was initially established to provide education to the princes and nobles of Rajputana. Today, it stands as a premier educational institution and a significant architectural landmark. The main building, designed by Major Mant, is a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, blending Hindu and Mughal styles. The campus houses a museum that displays an impressive collection of arms, artefacts, and paintings related to the royal families of Rajasthan.
Distance From Ajmer: 3 km
8. Sambhar Lake
Photo: Nawanshu91 / Wikimedia Commons
Sambhar Lake, India’s largest inland salt lake, is a unique ecological wonder near Ajmer. This vast saline lake is not only a major source of salt production but also a wetland of international importance, recognised under the Ramsar Convention. The lake attracts diverse migratory birds, including flamingos, making it a paradise for bird watchers. Visitors can take a tour of the salt pans to understand the salt production process and enjoy the surreal landscape of the salt flats. The lake is particularly spectacular during sunset when the sky’s colours reflect off the saline waters.
Distance From Ajmer: 80 km
9. Roopangarh Fort
Photo: SimonP / Wikimedia Commons
Roopangarh Fort, built in 1648 AD by Maharaja Roop Singh, is a hidden gem near Ajmer. This impressive fort, perched atop a hill, offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Now converted into a heritage hotel, the fort allows visitors to experience the grandeur of Rajasthani royalty. The fort’s architecture is a fusion of Rajputana and Mughal styles, featuring intricate jharokhas, expansive courtyards, and ornate interiors. The fort also houses a small museum displaying artefacts and weapons from its glorious past. Even for day visitors, Roopangarh Fort provides a fascinating glimpse into Rajasthan’s royal heritage.
Distance From Ajmer: 40 km
10. Nagaur Fort
Photo: Debazoti1985 / Wikimedia Commons
Nagaur Fort, also known as Ahhichatragarh Fort, is a massive fort complex that has recently undergone extensive restoration. Dating back to the early 12th century, the fort is a remarkable example of Rajput-Mughal architecture. The fort complex houses palaces, temples, and elaborate water systems, all enclosed within high walls and bastions. The restoration work has brought to light exquisite frescoes and intricate mirror work in the palaces. The fort also hosts the World Sacred Spirit Festival, celebrating Sufi music and culture. Nagaur Fort offers a less crowded and more immersive experience compared to some of Rajasthan’s more famous forts.
Distance From Ajmer: 135 km
The places to visit near Ajmer Rajasthan offer a rich tapestry of experiences, from spiritual enlightenment at Pushkar to the natural beauty of Sambhar Lake. Each destination has its unique charm, providing visitors with insights into Rajasthan. Whether you’re interested in architecture, nature, or spirituality, the area around Ajmer has something to offer. Book your trip with TripXL today and discover the myriad attractions near Ajmer that await you.
Cover Photo: Sikandar Ali / Unspalsh