Jaswant Thada, Jodhpur| Images, Architecture, Timings

"The Royal Cenotaphs of Jodhpur"

Jaswant Thada, Jodhpur Overview

In the royal state of Jodhpur lies Jaswant Thada, a splendid marble cenotaph monument that is also a mausoleum for the kings of Marwar. The memorial was built in the honour and memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II by his son Maharaja Sardar Singh in 1899 and is still used by the Marwar Royal Family as cremation grounds. The beautiful edifice is made out of intricately carved marble that is offset vibrantly against the red steps that lead up to the entrance. Jaswant Thada in Jodhpur is considered as an architectural landmark and must be seen by one and all. On the steps leading up to the monument, one can see local musicians and folk dancers entertain the visitors.

The cenotaph also has a beautifully maintained garden which the tourists can explore along with the monument. You can explore the intricate artistry on the carved marbles. The skilfully carved thin sheets of marble are worth appreciating. The entire structure resembles a temple with unmatched beauty. It is also called the Taj Mahal of Marwar and attracts tourists from all over the world.

Architecture of Jaswant Thada

Jaswant Thada is adorned with marble sheets and lies amidst beautiful multi-tiered gardens and a serene lake. It also houses three more cenotaphs and the crematorium reserved only for the Royal Family. The marble sheets are very thin and are intricately carved and hence are a perfect illustration of skilful marble sculpture. The monument has several domes and shikharas giving it a temple-like appearance. Some parts are uncannily similar to the Taj Mahal. It is therefore also called the Taj Mahal of Marwar. The cenotaph also has lattice screens that add to the beauty of the architecture. There is also a memorial of a peacock that is said to have flown into a funeral pyre while the rituals were going on.

Best Time To Visit Jaswant Tada

The best months to visit Jaswant Thada are between October and February as it is winter time and the blaring summers can be avoided. It is best explored during the mornings or evenings as the temperature stays pleasant during these hours.

Tips For Visiting Jaswant Tada

1. A little climb up a hill is required to reach the cenotaph.
2. Wear appropriate clothing and sun protection while exploring the attraction.
3. Carry enough water and keep yourself hydrated.
4. You are expected to remove your shoes while entering the cenotaph as a way of paying respect to the deceased.

How To Reach Jaswant Thada

Jaswant Thada is easily accessible by road from any part of the beautiful city of Jodhpur as it lies on the way to Mehrangarh Fort. Tourists can hail public transport to reach the cenotaph. Auto-rickshaws and buses are a great mode of local transport here, however, tourists can choose to rent cabs. Those opting for self-driven vehicles can reach Jaswant Thada in about 30 minutes from the city centre via NH62.