AJMER TEMPLES

Nasiyan Jain Temple: Nasiyan Jain Temple also known as the Red Temple and located on Prithviraj Marg, this Digambar Jain temple was built in 1865. The main chamber consists of a double storeyed hall in which are housed large wooden figures portraying the Jain concept of the world. The hall is decorated lavishly with precious gems, gold and silver. The Nasiyan temple is one of the finest Jain temples in Rajasthan after the temples of Ranakpur and Mount Abu and is open to visitors from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with an entry fee of Rs 2. Rajasthan Jain Temples

Speaking of Jain temples, western India namely Rajasthan is renowned for its dazzling temples built by rich Jain merchants. Jain temples are the richest in India and their splendour surpasses Mughal architecture at its best. With marble as the central theme, Jain temples boast of amazing finesse apparent in intricate carvings especially on ceilings and pillars. Jainism continued to make its subtle impact even during the Mughal rule, with the only difference being that at times Jain temples were built on the lines of a fort with a high wall surrounding the entire complex.

Dargah Sharif: About 130 km west of Jaipur, Ajmer is an important pilgrim centre for Muslims from all over the world. The great Sufi saint, Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti, was laid to rest here. The sick, t troubled and the childless visit the Dargah Sharif seeking a boon or just peace of mind. There is an endless flov of visitors to the Dargah. The street leading up to it is lined with shops. At the Dargah, thousands of coloured threads have been tied seeking a boon. When the wish is granted, those blesse will come back to fulfil their vow - perhaps spread a 'chaddar', or sheet, o the Dargah or serve a meal to the poor and destitute who hang around there.

Brahma Temple in Pushkar: About 135 kms from Jaipur and 10 kms from Ajmer, the holy town of Pushkar is situated. The Pushkar Lake is located at the middle of the town and is of immence religious importance. Pilgrims all over the country take a holy dip in Kartik Purnima and offer prayers in the Brahma Temple. It is probably the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma in the country. Lord Bramha, the Creator, along with other gods and goddesses of Hindu Mythology was said to have performed a yagna(rituals performed over holy fire) here. It is beautiful temple decorated with silver coins and a characteristic silver turtle is on its back. The white and black chequered floor of the temple is studded with coins given by devotees on the birth and death anniversaries of their relatives.

Other Hindu temples of Pushkar are Apteshwar Temple, Rangji Temple, Savitri Temple, Mahadeva Temple and Varah Temple.