The city of Ajmer lies in the heart of Rajasthan, some 130 km west of Jaipur. Literally an oasis surrounded by the rocky Aravalli hills Ajmer is a major tourist destination because of its eventful history, spiritual sites and the neighbouring village of Pushkar. Witness to the rise and fall of several kingdoms, Ajmer's history tells the tales of great romances, heroism and valour. The social fabric in Ajmer is a truly secular one with both Hindus and Muslims cutting across religious divides to revere its holy land. The Dargah of Sufi Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti, located at the end of a dusty alley in the main market, makes Ajmer an important pilgrim centre for Muslims from all parts of the world and Pushkar is the abode of Lord Brahma, which devout Hindus aspire to visit at least once in their lifetime. As an important tourist destination the ins and outs of travel in Ajmer are well documented in many a tourist guide. And having access to reliable information is important in this city where there is a friendly 'guide' at every corner.

Travelling to Ajmer might turn into an exercise that confirms your worst fears of the spiritual meeting the commercial and a tourist will find this out as soon as he lays foot in the city. Tour guides, apparently persuaded by the 'persistence pays' philosophy, will swarm forth to greet you at the bus stop and getting them to let you go can turn into quite a test. Be sure you're equipped with all the information you need and head straight for the sights. Besides the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, there are many other important historical and religious sites. The Adhai din ka Jhonpara mosque and Taragarh Fort are interesting historical monuments. Everybody who goes to Ajmer makes the half hour bus journey up Nag Pahar to the town of Pushkar.

The best time to visit Ajmer is of course during the festival of Urs. If you can stand the Rajasthan heat of May-June (the actual date is variable from year to year) then save your trip for this festival when thousands from across India arrive at Ajmer on pilgrimage during this auspicious period. This is when the dargah resonates with the uplifting strains of Sufi music and the tabarukh, a sweet rice preparation that is sacred, is doled out all visitors.

Ajmer is a travel delight, bustling with activity and noise, sights and sound, it is a place that's guaranteed to overwhelm the senses of any tourist.

For state information, see Rajasthan.