India is the land of different cultures and religions where various faiths amicably coexist. Dargahs are one of the many religious places in this country that attracts masses from all walks of life. The dargah, which is erected over the graves of revered Sufi saints, is famous for its architectural beauty and spiritual ambiance.
Here are the top 10 most popular and well known Dargahs in India to be visited in the year 2024
1. The Haji Ali Dargah, Mumbai
Located on an islet in the Arabian Sea, the Haji Ali Dargah is an integral part of Mumbai. It was built in 1431 in memory of Sayyed Peer Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, a successful trader who renounced all of his worldly possessions and traveled on a pilgrimage to Mecca. It is a striking white building, an epitome of devotion and architectural marvel, and is accessible only at low tide via a narrow walkway.
People from different religions come to this destination to seek blessings and to spend some time in peace. This unique location and religious value, combining spirituality with breathtaking visual beauty, make Haji Ali Dargah one of the most-visited places in Mumbai.
2. Ajmer Sharif, Rajasthan
Ajmer Sharif Dargah, located in Ajmer, Rajasthan, is the tomb of Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, also known as Gharib Nawaz, meaning Benefactor of the Poor. His preachings were based on love, compassion, and unity of religions. The Dargah has become a great place of pilgrimage, particularly during the festival of Urs, celebrated at the time of his death anniversary.
This complex houses many magnificent structures, including the beautiful Akbari Mosque and the lively Dargah Bazaar, thereby increasing its attraction and importance. A fine blend of magnificent architecture and spiritual attraction, Ajmer Sharif Dargah serves as a key destination place for devotees and tourists alike.
3. Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah, Delhi
Situated in the heart of Delhi, Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah is dedicated to the great Sufi saint Nizamuddin Auliya. Built by Muhammad bin Tughlaq, it is among the busiest centers of spirituality in the capital city and attracts lots of people throughout the day.
This place also houses the tombs of famous poet Amir Khusrao and Mughal princess Jahan Ara Begum. Heartfelt Qawwalis are performed here every Thursday night, which draws music lovers and spiritual seekers. From historical significance to spiritual importance to the element of music, Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah is a renowned cultural landmark.
4. Dargah Hazratbal, Kashmir
One of the leading shrines for Muslims, Dargah Hazratbal, is located on the northern banks of Dal Lake in Srinagar, Kashmir. The Dargah contains a relic believed to be from the Prophet Muhammad and hence is considered a very sacred place in Islam. The lovely white marble building with an imposing dome provides a peaceful retreat to visitors.
This spiritual journey is further beautified by the exquisiteness of the surrounding scenery, making Hazratbal one of the most famous places in India. The tranquil atmosphere, coupled with the holy significance accorded to the Dargah, attracts pilgrims and tourists from all over the world, enhancing its unique beauty and significance. Spirituality coupled with natural beauty gives Dargah Hazratbal the status of a revered and treasured landmark.
5. Prian Kaliyar Sharif, Roorkee
Piran Kaliyar Sharif, situated close to Roorkee in Uttarakhand, is dedicated to the 13th-century Sufi saint Alauddin Ali Ahmed Sabir Kalyari. Ibrahim Lodi built the Dargah as a testament to the beautiful teachings of the saint on compassion and unity.
This shrine holds spiritual significance to both Hindus and Muslims and is truly a celebration of the spirit of inclusivity. Hundreds of thousands of devotees throng here every year during the annual Urs festival to seek blessing and be a part of the festivity.
6. Gol Gumbaz, Bijapur
Gol Gumbaz, or Gola Gummata, is the mausoleum of Mohammed Adil Shah, Bijapur’s ruler. This colossal building in Karnataka is famous for its huge dome—one of the largest in the world. Constructed by an architect named Yaqut during the year 1656, Gol Gumbaz is among the finest monuments that represent the Deccan style of architecture.
The unique acoustic properties of this central dome amplify even the slightest whispers, making the place even more attractive. Gol Gumbaz is a great building that has immense historical importance and attracts many history buffs and visitors from all parts of the world. This magnificent building reflects the glory of the Adil Shahi dynasty.
7. Bibi Ka Maqbara, Aurangabad
Known as the “Taj of the Deccan,” Bibi Ka Maqbara is situated in Aurangabad and was built by Azam Shah in memory of his mother, Dilras Banu Begum. Built between 1651 and 1661, this Dargah has a close resemblance to the Taj Mahal and depicts the greatness of Mughal architecture. The serene surroundings, with gardens around the building and intricate marble work, add charm to this place, attracting tourists and other visitors.
With its exquisite minarets and the design of the dome, it symbolises the excellence of Mughal architecture. The Bibi Ka Maqbara is a testimony to a son’s love for his mother and an important cultural and historical place in India. It has been attracting millions of visitors from around the world for its beauty and historical significance.
8. Dargah-E-Hakimi, Burhanpur
Situated in Burhanpur, Madhya Pradesh, Dargah-E-Hakimi is one of the most important shrines of the Dawoodi Bohra community and houses the mortal remains of the great saint Syedi Abdulqadir Hakimuddin. Beautiful buildings made of white marble, well-maintained gardens, and a library surround this Dargah, which combines to create an atmosphere that is serene and spiritually enriching.
The Dargah-E-Hakimi is an outstanding architectural and spiritual entity that serves as an epitome of inspiration to devotees and architecture enthusiasts. It is this blending of beauty with sacredness that makes this site so attractive to visitors in quest of peace.
9. Ibrahin Rauza, Bijapur
One of the major places of attraction in Bijapur is the Ibrahim Rauza, famously known as the “Taj Mahal of the Deccan.” It comprises the tomb of Ibrahim Adil Shah II, Sultan of Bijapur, and his queen, Taj Sultana. This Dargah was designed by a Persian architect named Malik Sandal and reflects a perfect blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural designs.
This cultural and historical importance is depicted with a picturesque garden, mosque, and finely carved stonework. Located in Karnataka, Ibrahim Rauza showcases the artistic and architectural flair of the Adil Shahi rulers and attracts history buffs and visitors alike.
10. Peer Baba Dargah, Jammu
Situated in Jammu, Peer Baba Dargah is a shrine dedicated to the great Sufi saint Peer Budhan Ali Shah, who lived on milk all his life for a period of more than 500 years. The shrine depicts unity across many religions; one can see people from different faiths coming to worship at the shrine. Thursdays are considered to be of great importance, and huge numbers of devotees visit the shrine to seek blessings and experience the spiritual atmosphere. The warm, inviting atmosphere and serene environment of Dargah make this an important place to worship and meditate for people of all beliefs.
Conclusion
Here are the top 10 Dargahs in India, which, apart from being a spiritual breakaway, also reflect the culture and architectural excellence of the country. These shrines provide a special engagement with tranquility, faith, and historical significance.
