Ajmer Sharif Dargah: Pilgrimage & Visitor Guide

The Dargah of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti in Ajmer is the most famous Sufi shrine in South Asia. The saint arrived from Persia in the late twelfth century and founded the Chishti order in India, preaching love, tolerance and service to the poor. His tomb attracts people of every religion who come to seek blessings and tie threads of wishes.

Mughal emperors, especially Akbar, walked here as pilgrims and added gateways, mosques and huge cauldrons used to cook food for visitors. The evening qawwali performances in the courtyard are powerful and moving. During the annual Urs, marking the saint's death anniversary, hundreds of thousands fill the narrow lanes.

What to see

Silver and marble tomb of the saint
Buland Darwaza gateway
Giant degs, cooking cauldrons
Evening qawwali sessions
Akbari Mosque and Shahjahani Mosque

Visiting Ajmer Sharif Dargah: practical guide

Best time: October to March
Hours: Usually 4 am to 10 pm in summer and 5 am to 9 pm in winter
Entry: Free; donations welcome
Dress code: Head covered for all; modest clothing
Nearest airport: Kishangarh Airport (KQH), 30 km

Tips from experienced pilgrims

Bring a scarf or buy a cap at the stalls
Leave bags and cameras outside
Visit Pushkar, 15 km away, on the same trip

Festivals and special days

Urs of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti
Eid al-Fitr
Muharram

Etiquette for visitors

Guidance drawn from Islam tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.

Dress modestly, covering arms and legs; women usually cover their hair in mosques.
Remove shoes before entering the prayer hall.
Avoid visiting during prayer times unless invited, and never walk in front of someone praying.
Be discreet about eating, drinking and smoking in public during Ramadan days.
Use your right hand for eating and giving or receiving items.
Some mosques and the holy cities of Mecca and Medina are closed to non-Muslims.