Prithviraj Smarak, Ajmer: An Icon of Royal Valour

Prithviraj Memorial Ajmer
Prithviraj-Memorial-Ajmer
Prithviraj Smarak amidst the hills in Ajmer

The Prithviraj Smarak is a memorial to Prithviraj Chauhan, the great hero of the Rajput Chauhan dynasty. Located on the Taragarh Road in Ajmer, the memorial has a statue of the king in black stone, mounted on a horse. Prithviraj Chauhan has been shown with a bow and arrow in his hand.

Prithvi Raj Chauhan (originally Prithvi Raj III) was the last ruler in the lineage of Chauhans. He was enthroned to rule the twin capitals of Delhi and Ajmer in the 12th century. He was considered as an epitome of courage and patriotism.

In this sculpture at the Prithviraj Smarak, the horse is shown with one front hoof up in the air. In the symbolism of equestrian sculpting, this seems to suggest that Prithvi Raj Chauhan was executed after he lost the battle. Therefore, it looks likely that the reference is towards the Second Battle of Tarain (1192), in which the emperor was slain by the Ghurid army of Mohammed Ghori. Therefore, the Smarak is also famous as a war memorial of Prithviraj Chauhan.

The historic site built amidst gracful step-gardens on the hills provides an incredible view of the city of Ajmer. The lovely valley, encircled by the hills of Aravalli range, looks beautiful from the Prithviraj Smarak. The view turns superlative under the red sky as the sun dips into the horizon.

Since there isn’t much else to explore at the memorial, you can visit other nearby tourist destinations in a single day. The Lake Foy Sagar and the Taragarh Fort are just a few km away and are recommended.

Timing: 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on all days