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Ajmer city, surrounded by the
Arava llis
and located in the heart of Rajasthan, is 130 km to the west of
Jaipur.
This place is worth visiting for its natural charm, and its religious,
historical and architectural interests. The city has seen the rise
and fall of many kingdoms.
Ajmer has always been
a coveted and strategic place for many a rulers - the Rajputs, the
Mughals and the Marathas. Ajmer was the seat of administration for
the Chauhans till Prithviraj was defeated in 1193 A.D by Mohammad
Ghori.
It then became a part of the Delhi Sultanate. However, Rana Kumbha
of Mewar and Raja Maldeo again established Rajput rule over Ajmer.
Ajmer is home to
the Mayo College, a prestigious school opened in 1875 exclusively
for the Indian princes. In the present times, it is open to all
those who can afford the fees.
Ajmer is a major
centre for Muslim pilgrims during the fast of Ramazan, and displays
some impressive Muslim architecture.
The annual Urs at the Dargah of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti is held
on a grand scale and attracts pilgrims from all over the world irrespective
of their caste and religion.
For Hindus, Ajmer
is just a base to reach nearby Pushkar, and if during the Camel
Fair of Pushkar, accomodation becomes a problem; Ajmer is the option
open to them.
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