Near the fort, on a hall, is the massive marble Jaswant Thada. The tomb of Jaswant Thada, a renowned Maharaja of Jodhpur, is located here. In Rajasthan, these cemeteries are known as chhatris.
Famous as the Taj Mahal of Marwar, Jaswant Thada is characterized by its extensive use of white marble and elaborate embellishments. On the grounds of the royal tombs in Jodhpur is the Jaswant Thada, erected in 1899 AD by Maharaja Sardar Singh as a monument to his father, Jaswant Singh-II.
Its walls are adorned with pictures of several Jodhpur emperors, some of whom date back to the 13th century. The artistic brilliance of the sculptors is on full display here; it stands majestically on a verdant lawn against a background of reddish hills. This marble mausoleum is a work of art. When exposed to sunlight, its exquisite workmanship causes it to radiate a comforting warmth. The central dome rises like a pyramid and looks something like a temple tower.
The circumference is adorned with many smaller domes, giving the impression of a terrace. The magnificence of the tomb, which resembles a temple, is heightened by the multi-tiered garden, tiny lake, and hills in the distance.
The main entrance of the Jaswant Thada complex has a sculpture of Maharaja Jaswant Singh on a horse, and marble stairs lead up to the main memorial.
Despite the fact that the complex has monuments to three previous Maharajas of Jodhpur, the most remarkable of them is a peacock memorial.
History
Jodhpur, Rajasthan’s Jaswant Thada can be found to the left of the Mehrangarh Fort complex. The 33rd Rathore king of Jodhpur, Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, is commemorated at this royal cenotaph that was constructed in the 19th century. The Jaswant Thada was constructed by Maharaja Sardar Singh, who was the son of Maharaja Jaswant Singh, as a memorial to his father. There are two other graves inside the cenotaph. This one is next to three others, including the royal crematorium.
Among India’s many architectural marvels is the world-famous Jaswant Thada in Jodhpur. The monument is constructed from meticulously cut pieces of white marble. The skill of the carvers is on full display in the carving. The stones are quite smooth and thin. Sunlight reflecting from the monument’s exterior causes it to seem warm and welcoming. The cenotaph also has exquisite marble jali work. The balcony outside the tomb offers beautiful views.
The pictures of the kings and Maharajas of Jodhpur may be seen at the cenotaph of Maharaja Jaswant Singh. The primary monument resembles a temple in design. The rocky slopes are a necessary evil on the way to Thada. This adds an air of mysticism to the whole experience. Those planning a trip to Jodhpur, Rajasthan, should definitely stop by this architectural marvel.
Architecture
Surrounded by picturesque multi-tiered gardens and a tranquil lake, Jaswant Thada is embellished with marble sheets. Along with the crematorium which is exclusively for members of the royal family, it has three other cenotaphs. The delicately cut marble sheets are a stunning example of expert marble carving because of their thinness and detail. The structure resembles a temple due to its several domes and shikharas. It looks eerily like the Taj Mahal in places. “Taj Mahal of Marwar” is another name for it. The lattice screens that encircle the tomb further enhance its already stunning design. During the ceremonies, a peacock supposedly soared onto a funeral pyre, therefore there is a monument of that bird as well.
Interesting facts
● Maharaja Jaswant Singh II is the honorary name of this structure. Maharaja Sadar Singh, his son, constructed it around the latter part of the nineteenth century.
● The fact that it is crafted entirely of marble is hinted at by its name.
● Numerous portraits of the region’s kings and queens may be found here.
● This monument follows in the footsteps of many Mughal buildings in its use of red stones to simulate the appearance of marble.
● In ancient times, funeral rites were performed in the little lake that borders the monument. The tourist board has released several ducks into the lake today.
● During the tourist season, the steps of the monument often play host to local musicians and singers. Listening to traditional Rajasthani music has never been easier than here.
● Within the monument, you’ll find memorials that pay homage to specific individuals via one-of-a-kind artwork and historical context.
● The pillars and arches adorn the whole monument with their sculptures.
How to rache
From anywhere in the picturesque city of Jodhpur, you can reach Jaswant Thada by car since it is on the route to Mehrangarh Fort. Visitors may easily access the cenotaph by using public transportation. Tourists have the option of renting taxis, however, locals highly recommend auto-rickshaws and buses. From the city center, those who prefer self-driving cars may reach Jaswant Thada in around half an hour via NH62.
Entry Fee of Jaswant Thada
Indians: INR 30 per head
Foreigner: INR 50 per head
Camera Fee: INR 25 per head
Video Camera Fee: INR 50 per head
Guide: INR 100