Akbari Fort & Museum

Akbari Fort & Museum is a historical fort and museum in Ajmer, Rajasthan, commissioned by Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1570. Originally built as a royal residence during visits to the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, it later served as the residence of Prince Salim (Jahangir). The fort now houses the Government Museum with collections of Mughal and Rajput armor, sculpture, coins, and antiquities.

Visitors can explore a compact fort-palace structure with high walls and spacious courtyards. The museum displays Mughal and Rajput artifacts including weapons, armor, sculptures, coins, inscriptions, and prehistoric items. The fort features Diwan-e-Khas, smaller courts, and a large step well (baoli). Mobile photography is permitted inside.

Built in 1570 by Mughal Emperor Akbar as a strategic stronghold and royal residence during pilgrimages to Ajmer Sharif Dargah. It served as the residence of Prince Salim (later Emperor Jahangir). In 1619, Emperor Jahangir issued the royal farmân from this fort granting the British East India Company permission to trade with India, marking the birthplace of British trade in India.

The fort represents Mughal architectural heritage and serves as an important cultural repository through its museum collection. It was built to honor Sufi saint Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chisti and reflects the connection between Mughal imperial power and spiritual devotion in Ajmer.