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Ajmer Information

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The city was founded by Raja Ajay Pal Chauhan in the 7th Century A.D. and continued to be a major centre of the Chauhan power till 1193 A.D. When Prithviraj Chauhan lost it to Mohammed Ghauri. Ajmer is situated in a picturesque valley surrounded by Ajay Meru ranges of Aravali hills. Along with architecture it is an important place of pilgrimage for Hindus as well as Muslims. Muslims call Ajmer by the name of Ajmer sharif while Hindus call it Tirthraj Pushkar.

City Overview

In this era of communalism and religious intolerance, Ajmer comes across as an extremely secular town and a unifying shrine. Founded in the 7th century by Raja Ajpal Chauhan, Ajmer served as the Bastion of he Chauhan kings. The city passed on to the Mewar kings and was at last annexed by the Mughal Emperor Akbar. Ajmer is renowned for the Shrine dedicated to the Muslim saint lovingly known as Khwaja who longed to unite the people of the land in a common bond or brotherhood. Read More.....

Ajmer City is well connected to the rest of the country and the world through regular flights plying to and from Jaipur Airport. Jaipur (138 km) is also connected to Ajmer by an excellent bus service and the route takes 2 hours to cover. Ajmer is a major junction in the Indian Railways network and connects the city to other parts of the country.

The Urs Ajmer Sharif is the city's major festival and eulogizes the Sufi seer Khawaja Moinuddin Chishti. Qawwalis and festive songs are sung at the famed durgah or shrine in the city. Millions of devotees visit the city during the Urs and offer prayers and supplications.

The major attractions of the city of Ajmer are: Dargah Khwaja Sharif - One of the most famous mosques in India. Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs and Christians visit this 13th century shrine and pay obeisance to the Divine. All prayers are believed to be granted here and the heart of the visitor is filled with a hitherto unknown calm and peace.

Tara Garh or the Star Fort

Adhai Din Ka Jhonpda

Akbar Palace

Rajputana Museum

Abdulla Khan's Tomb

Ana Sagar Lake

Khobra Bheroon Temple

Visal Sar

Foy Sagar

Man Mahal

Pushkar Lake

Nasiyan (Red) Temple

Mayo College

Shah Jahan's Mosque

Circuit House

The local artisans and vendors flock to Ajmer especially during the Urs and the city resembles a carnival. The streets are lined with colorful displays and handicraft items such as splendid rugs, dyes and block printed textiles, embroidered durries, silver baubles and golden jewellery. The sequined and embroidered leather footwear called Mojaris and the scented natural oils called Atar of Ajmer are famous. Madar gate, Station Road, Purani Mandi, Naya Bazaar, Kaisarganj and Nala Bazaar are favorite shoppers' haunts.

To accommodate the throng of tourists during the Urs and even at other times, Ajmer has well provided accommodation facilities including Luxury Hotels (e.g. Man Singh Palace), Budget Hotels (e.g. RTDC Khadim, Hotel Ambassador, Hotel Chitvan etc.) and other arrangements such as guest houses

Cost of Living

100 Indian Rupee (Rs100) = £1.17; US$2.18; C$2.45; A$2.93; €1.72
Currency conversion rates as of October 2006

Culture

Enter into the zone where beauty and culture goes hand in hand. Unfold the legacies of the Ajmer city as you explore the city. Unearth its various tourists spots and make your holidays an incredible experience. Read More.....

Excursion

Ajmer excursions consist of some of the finest places near the city. Excursions around Ajmer, Rajasthan are a must see for those visiting the city. Some of the famous places to visit around Ajmer are: . Read More.....

Pushkar
One of the chief and significant pilgrimages of the Hindus, Pushkar, lies 11 km from Ajmer. The city of Pushkar is home to the only temple of Lord Brahma (the Creator of the World) in India. Legend has it that Pushkar is the abode of Lord Brahma. It is believed that the scenic lake of Pushkar Lake was created when a lotus fell from the hands of Brahma in the city of Pushkar. A dip in the holy waters of the lake on Kartik Poornima is believed to be equal to performing yagnas for several hundred years.

Foy Sagar Lake
Located 5 km from the city of Ajmer is the Foy Sagar Lake. It is a picturesque artificial lake named after the engineer Foy who developed it under a famine relief project.

Kishangarh
Situated 27 km from Ajmer is the city of Kishangarh. This city was founded by a Kishan Singh, a Rathore prince. The city houses one of the most famous schools of miniature paintings. In the present times, the city is regarded as a rich storehouse of marbles and textiles. Other main attractions of Kishangarh are its Fort and the magnificent Phool Mahal.

Roopangarh Fort
Maharaja Roop Singh of Kishangarh constructed the Roopangarh fort in the year 1648, mainly for security reasons. The fort is situated near the city of Kishangarh. The main attractions of the fort consist of its medieval stone granaries, royal armories, jails and daunting battlements. The fort has now been converted into a heritage hotel.

Getting Around

Ajmer is a relatively small town and easy enough to get around on foot, but there are plenty of auto - rickshaws and cycles - rickshaws. Read More.....

Key Attractions

Ajmer was founded by Raja Ajay Pal Chauhan in the 7th Century A.D. was an enduring center of the Chauhan power till 1193 A.D. when Prithviraj Chauhan lost it to Mohammed Ghauri. Since then, Ajmer was captured by many dynasties, which came and left leaving behind unforgettable marks of their culture and custom on the city�s history. Following this, Ajmer became an amalgam of various cultures and blend of Hinduism and Islam. Read More.....

The Dargah
At the foot of a dry and deserted hill, is situated India’s one of most visited pilgrimage center for people from all walks of life. It is the spectacular tomb of the Sufi saint Khawaja Moinuddin Chisti more commonly known as Khawaja Saheb or Khawaja Sharif. The elevated shrine is next only to Mecca or Medina for the Muslims of south Asia.

The shrine of the Sufi Saint attracts thousands of devouts during the Urs-commemorating the death anniversary of the Saint, held from the 1st to 6th day of the Islamic month of Rajab. A colourful fair that takes place at this time is the prime attraction of this place.

Shahjhan’s Mosque : In one corner of the inner court of the Dargah, is a marvellous building in white marble with a long (30.5m) and narrow court having low porches and intricate carvings with trellis-work. It is the most beautiful of all the sanctums within the sanctuary of the Dargah.

Taragarh Fort : A steep one and a half hour climb going further beyond the Adhai-din-ka-jhopra leads to the ruins of the Taragarh Fort, settled on a hill. One can have an awesome view of the city from here. The Taragarh Fort was the sight of the military activity during the Mughal period, later used as a sanatorium by the British.

Adhai-din-ka-jhonpra : A noticeable structure, Adhai-din-ka-jhonpra is a masterpiece of Indo-Islamic architecture located at the outlying lands of the city, just beyond the Dargah. As the legend says, its construction took two and a half days (Adhai-Din) to complete. It was basically a Sanskrit college, built within a temple. In 1193 A.D. Mohhamed Ghauri overpowered Ajmer and converted the building into a mosque by adding a seven arched wall in front of the pillared hall in just two-and-half days(adhai-din) and hence the name. The unique pillars and arched screen with its ruined minarets make it an amazing architectural masterpiece.

Pushkar : Ajmer is also the base for visiting Pushkar just 11 km. from Ajmer. Pushkar is the abode of Lord Brahma, settled to its west with a temple and a picturesque lake.The Pushkar lake is a sacred spot for Hindus. During the month of Kartik (Oct./Nov.), devotes throng in large numbers here to take a dip in the sacred lake at the time of Pushkar Fair.

Nightlife

The part of Agra near Taj Mahal is full of terrace, nice to spend there some time at night having a lazy or a drink or having dinner. Read More.....

Bar T5 Agra Services Inc., founded by Greg and Carolyn Thomson, celebrated its 14th anniversary in 2007.

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Circle J - Horse and rider friendly trailers, galvanized steel and aluminium construction, with one-piece fibreglass roof; Circle J are an affordable great pulling trailer.

Exiss - The original aluminium trailer manufacturer is known for superior design, innovative production and affordable pricing.

Jamco - The Rolls Royce of the aluminium trailer world, this Canadian manufacturer offers a superior tongue and groove aluminium plank wall design with a 4" on centre all aluminium floor. Jamco also provides a twenty year limited warranty.

Lakota - Lakota began its legacy producing top-of-the-line aluminium horse trailers in June of 2005. Lakota claims to understand the need to fabricate an equine coach that is well engineered, durable and safe for our customers and their precious cargo. Lakota is committed to providing cutting-edge products for a diverse horse industry at a price point that reflects the superior workmanship found in their trailers.

Southland - Canadian built, with galvanized steel construction, these superior built trailers are very popular within the farming and ranching community.

Haulmark - The largest producer of steel-framed, aluminium-skinned cargo trailers in the marketplace. Haulmark offers a wide range of cargos, deluxe car haulers, 5' x 8' transports, snowmobile and concession trailers as well as landscape and motorcycle trailers.

Innovative - Bar T5 is proud to be Innovative Trailer Manufacturing's only Canadian dealer. Made in Richfield, Utah they specialize in flat deck utility, equipment, landscape, car-hauling, deckovers and dump trailers of many different sizes and styles. They have both bumper pull and gooseneck trailers to fit all sizes of vehicles and specialize in custom orders.

Restaurant

1. Dasaprakash (Indian, Continental, South Indian) Meher Cinema Complex, No.1, Gwalior Road, Agra Cantonment, Agra 282 001, India. Tel: +(91) (562) 2363535/2363368 Fax: +(91) (562). Read More....

2. Olive Garden (Multi - Cuisine) 16/2/8, Sanjay Place, M.G. Road, Agra 282 002, India. Tel: +(91) (562) 2357624 Fax: +(91) (562) 2357635 Email: hinnagra@nde.vsnl.net.in

3. Capri Restaurant (North Indian, Mughlai) Hari Parbat, Agra 282 002, India. Tel: +(91) (562) 2222171 Fax: +(91) (562)

4. Pizza Hut (Pizzas)

8, Hawdi Craft Nagar, Fatehbad Road, Agra 282 001, India. Tel: +(91) (562) 2333051/52/53 Fax: +(91) (562) 2330228

5. Petals Restaurant (Chinese, Indian & Continental) 19-A, TAJ ROAD, Agra 282 002, India. Tel: +(91) (562) 2264615 Fax: +(91) (562)

6. Only Restaurant (Chinese, Mughlai & Continental) Taj Gunj , Agra 282 001, India. Tel: +(91) (562) Fax: +(91) (562)

7. Gallops Fast Food (Fast Food) Sanjay Palace, Agra 282 002, India. Tel: +(91) (562) 2150848 Fax: +(91) (562)

8. Top-N-Town (Indian, Continental) M G Road, Agra 282 001, India. Tel: +(91) (562) Fax: +(91) (562)

9. Metro Bar & Restaurant (Multi - Cuisine) Sanjay Place , Agra 282 002, India. Tel: +(91) (562) Fax: +(91) (562)

10. Shivakash Restaurants (Mughlai, Continental, Chinese) Fatehabad Road, Agra 282 001, India. Tel: +(91) (562) Fax: +(91) (562)

11. Zorba The Buddha (Osho Vegetarian) Sadar, Agra, India. Tel: +(91) (562) Fax: +(91) (562)

12. Kajal Restaurant (Indian, Punjabi, Mughlai, Tandoori) Shah Gunj, Badla Road, Agra, India. Tel: +(91) (562) 2360027 Fax: +(91) (562)

13. Joney's Place Taj Gunj, Agra 282 001, India. Tel: +(91) (562) Fax: +(91) (562)

14. Kwality Restaurant (Indian, Mughulai & Continental) Sadar, Agra, India. Tel: +(91) (562) Fax: +(91) (562)

15. Sonam Restaurant & Bar (Multi-Cuisine) 51, Taj Road, Agra, India. Tel: +(91) (562) Fax: +(91) (562)

16. Priya Restaurant ( Multi Cuisine) Fatehabad Road, Agra 282 001, India. Tel: +(91) (562) 2360749 Fax: +(91) (562)

Sightseeing

Agra is the city of the Taj Mahal. It is a sublime experience of the greatest love story ever told. Today India's most fascinating and beautiful masterpiece, this perfectly symmetrical edifice is set amidst landscaped gardens on the banks of the Yamuna river. Read More.....

Special Event

Agra celebrates many Fairs and Festivals. As most of the people are Muslims, the main festivals are Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Adha, and Muharrum with congregational prayers. Read More.....

Agra is also popular for its Id Melas and the colourful Tazias taken out on Muharram.

One of the popular festivals in Agra include Taj Mahotsav festival, held in Shilpgram about 1km from the eastern gate of Taj. On the occasion of this festival in Agra, you will find cultural vibrant platform that brings together the finest Indian crafts and cultural nuances. Enjoy the folk music, shayari, classical dance performances, elephant, and camel rides at this festival of Agra. A food festival, is also organized, the event is a celebration of traditional Indian art forms and crafts. The festivities are organized by UP Tourism Department. This festival of Agra is held in the month of February.

The festivities commence with a spectacular procession with bedecked elephants and camels, drum beaters, folk artists and master craftsmen all help to recreate a visual delight reminiscent of the golden era of the Mughal Darbars. The Taj food festival in Agra is an experience to savour with exotic cuisines and delicacies and the Craft Mela exhibits exquisite crafts like marble inlays, wood carvings, brass and metal ware, handmade carpets, the blue pottery, the Chikan works, Banares Silk etc. Fair and Festivals in Agra Bateshwar Fair

other national festivals are also celebrated in Agra like any other region of the country. Apart from these festivals in Agra, while on tour to Agra you can also experience some of the famous fairs of Agra. The fairs of Agra include Kailash Fair, which is held at a distance of 12kms from Kailash. It is a major fair celebrated in honor of Lord Shiva who is believed to have appeared here in the form of a stone lingam. Bateshwar Fair is a month-long festival held annually during the month of November at a place called Bateshwar, which is situated at a distance of 65 km from Agra.

Sport

There are few sporting facilities as such in Agra and generally visitors wishing to do physical activities have to do so through one of the many hotels located in the city. Read More.....

Billiards
Like many sporting activities in Agra, this is one catered to by the hotels. Therefore if the hotel you are staying at doesn't have this facility, you are advised to ask where the nearest public facility is.

Bird Watching
Bird Watching is one activity worth taking time out throughout India and in Agra this is an enjoyable activity for the whole family. Do remember to bring a good pair of binoculars with you though, as you will need them to view the feathered creatures well. One of the better locations for this activity is at Sur Sarovar (Keetham Lake) about 25 km from Agra itself.

Bowling
Bowling A number of hotels in Agra have bowling centres, the Jaypee Palace Hotel, the Hotel Clark Shiraz and the Holiday Inn are three such hotels. Non-hotel residents can use the facilities.

Camel Safaris
Camel Safaris cannot be done within Agra and you will need to travel to areas outside the city for this activity.

Croquet
Croquet is an ancient sport that has been popular in India for years. If you are keen on giving the game a go, pay a visit to one of the following venues: Hotel Clark Shiraz and the Mughal Sheraton hotel both of which have facilities for this activity.

Cycling
Cycling is a wonderful way to see the sights and surrounding area of Agra. Many hotels rent out bikes as do some tour companies. Your best bet is to enquire at your hotel on arrival as to where the nearest facilities are.

Elephant Safaris
Elephant Safaris are conducted by a few tour groups within Agra, but like the camel safaris, you will need to travel some distance to the locations.

Fishing
Fishing can be done at Sur Sarovar (Keetham Lake), about 25 km from Agra. You are advised to bring your own tackle though. Ketam Lake is situated within Surdas Reserved Forest. Sur Sarovar is a tranquil spot, ideal for relaxed outings. A wide variety of fish and water birds add to the lake's natural charm and beauty.

Golf
Golf Play golf with the Taj Mahal as a backdrop at the Agra Golf Course. This 9 hole course is of a reasonable standard and if you love the sport, get out there and play a couple of rounds with a group of friends or join a group at he course itself. For more information give the place a call on: 91-562-363579

Mini Golf
Mini Golf The following hotels offer this facility to guests and visitors; Mughal Sheraton, Hotel Clark Shiraz, Taj View Hotel and the Hotel Ashok. Motorbike Tours

Motorbike
Tours What better way to see the surrounding landscape and various locations in and around Agra than on a motorbike? This is an excellent way to get off he beaten track and do some real adventuring while in the area.

Picnicking
Picnicking Get away from the tourist spots and escape to tranquillity, where birdsong and the odd splash of a fish leaping out of the water are all that will disturb your day. Take a picnic lunch with you and pay the pleasant Keetham Lake a visit. Fishing and bird watching are popular activities at the lake.

Skydiving
Skydiving It is believed that one can do a parachute-training course through the Parachute Training School in Agra. This however has not been confirmed at the time of writing and you are advised to double check, on arrival.

Squash
Squash Like tennis, this activity tends to be restricted to the hotels, if yours doesn't cater for this, ask around for one close to you, that does.

Swimming
Swimming The following hotels will allow non-guests to use their swimming pool facilities: Agra Ashok Hotel, Taj View, Hotel Atithi, Mughal Sheraton and the Clarks Shiraz Hotel. Ashok is reputed to have the best pool out of the 3 hotels.

Tennis
Tennis Again if your hotel doesn't have this facility you will have to use the facilities at another hotel in your area. Ask on arrival as to where the closest venue for tennis is that will allow non-guests to play.

Tiger Spotting
Tiger Spotting can be done at the Ranthambhor National Park, and if you are interested in joining in on one of these safaris you are advised to join a tour from Agra itself.

Tour of The City

If you want a date with the 17th century architectural wonder, a tour to Agra, the city of Taj is what you should plan. Agra is located in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, India and is situated on the bank of the Yamuna. Known as the city of Taj, Agra has a history steeped in love, war and treachery. Though ruled by many dynasties, it was under the Mughals that Agra attained fame. It was in 1504, when Delhi Sultan Sikander Lodhi shifted his capital from Delhi to Agra and it became an important power centre.

But the coming of the Mughal's in India in 1526 changed the history of India in general and Agra in particular. For the next 300 years Agra was an important city. But it was under the Mughal emperors Akbar (1556-1605) and Shah Jahan (1627-58), Agra reached the zenith of art and culture. During the reign of Shah Jahan, Agra had attained an iconic status of a city that excelled in fine art and architecture. Many of the monuments in and around Agra that we see today were built during the reign of Akbar and Shah Jahan.

Once the pride of the Mughal emperors, Agra still attracts. The city has not lost its glory and the aura that surrounds it. There are many historic sites that one can visit when in Agra. The prominent among them are the Taj Mahal and the Red Fort.

Taj Mahal built by Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal is what attracts millions of travellers from all over the world to Agra. Such is the beauty of the Taj that the former President of the United States William Jefferson Clinton, during his visit to India in 2000 said "The world is divided between those who have seen the Taj and those who have not. Very soon, I hope to be on the side that has seen the Taj."

Agra Red Fort built by the Mughal emperor Akbar, is another interesting site in Agra to look for. It was in this fort; Shah Jahan spent last days of his life watching the Taj Mahal. His son Aurangzeb imprisoned him in the fort.

Besides the Red Fort and the Taj Mahal, Agra has some of the finest monuments of the Mughal era. When on a Tour to Agra, one can also visit Shish Mahal, Musamman Burj, Diwan-I-Khas and Jehangir's Palace.

The mausoleum, Itmad-ud-daulah, here needs a special mention. It was built by Nur Jahan, wife of the Mughal emperor Jehangir somewhere between 1622 and 1625 for her father Mirza Ghiyas Beg. The mausoleum, which resembles a silver jewel box, is considered to be the third must see building in Agra.