Jaswant Thada is a cenotaph located in Jodhpur, in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It was built by Maharaja Sardar Singh of Jodhpur State in 1899 in memory of his father, Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, and serves as the cremation ground for the royal Rajput family of Marwar. The cenotaph is built out of intricately carved sheets of Makrana marble, which emit a warm glow when illuminated by the sun.
Jaswant Thada is surrounded by a tiered garden, a small lake, and several other cenotaphs of the Rathore rulers. The cenotaph also displays portraits and paintings of the Jodhpur maharajas. Jaswant Thada is a popular tourist attraction in Jodhpur, and offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere amid the hustle and bustle of Jodhpur. Visit during Jodhpur Local sightseeing by cab
Location of Jaswant Thada
Jaswant Thada is located in Jodhpur, the second-largest city in Rajasthan. Jodhpur is well-connected by road, rail, and air to other major cities in India. The nearest airport is Jodhpur Airport, which is about 5 km from Jaswant Thada. The nearest railway station is Jodhpur Junction, which is about 6 km from Jaswant Thada. The cenotaph can be reached by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or bus from the airport or railway station. Jaswant Thada is also accessible by car from other nearby cities such as Jaipur (337 km), Udaipur (259 km), Jaisalmer (285 km), and Bikaner (251 km).
Opening Timing/ Entry Fees Jaswant Thada
Jaswant Thada is open to visitors every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The entry fee for Indian visitors is Rs. 30 per person, and for foreign visitors is Rs. 50 per person. The entry fee includes access to the cenotaph complex and the garden. There is an additional charge of Rs. 25 for still camera and Rs. 50 for video camera.
Things to Do /Must See Jaswant Thada
Jaswant Thada has many things to offer to its visitors, such as:
- Admiring the architecture and craftsmanship of the cenotaph: The cenotaph is a masterpiece of marble carving and sculpting, with delicate lattice work and floral motifs. The cenotaph has a dome-shaped roof and four octagonal pillars at the corners. The cenotaph also has several jharokhas (balconies) and chhatris (domed pavilions) that add to its beauty and elegance.
- Visiting the other cenotaphs and memorials: The cenotaph complex has several other cenotaphs and memorials of the Rathore rulers and their family members. Some of the notable ones are Maharaja Ajit Singh’s cenotaph, Maharaja Takhat Singh’s cenotaph, Maharaja Jaswant Singh’s memorial hall, and Maharani Chand Kanwar’s memorial hall. The cenotaphs and memorials are decorated with paintings, portraits, inscriptions, and sculptures.
- Exploring the garden and the lake: The cenotaph complex has a well-maintained garden that has various plants, flowers, trees, and fountains. The garden also has a small lake that reflects the image of the cenotaph. The garden and the lake provide a tranquil and refreshing environment for the visitors.
- Viewing the portraits and paintings of the Jodhpur maharajas: The cenotaph complex has a gallery that displays portraits and paintings of the Jodhpur maharajas from different periods and styles. The portraits and paintings depict the royal attire, jewellery, weapons, horses, elephants, and scenes of battles and ceremonies of the Rathore rulers.
- Enjoying the view of Mehrangarh Fort and Umaid Bhawan Palace: Jaswant Thada offers a splendid view of Mehrangarh Fort and Umaid Bhawan Palace, two other iconic landmarks of Jodhpur. Mehrangarh Fort is a massive fort that stands on a hilltop above the city, and showcases the history and culture of Marwar. Umaid Bhawan Palace is a grand palace that was built in the 20th century, and serves as a hotel and a museum.
Significance of Jaswant Thada
Jaswant Thada is a significant monument that represents the love and respect of the Rathore clan of Rajputs for their ancestors, especially Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, who was a benevolent and popular ruler of Jodhpur. The cenotaph is also a symbol of the art and architecture of the Rajput era, as it showcases the exquisite and intricate marble carving and sculpting skills of the artisans. Jaswant Thada is also a source of inspiration and attraction for many artists, writers, filmmakers, and photographers, who have visited and depicted Jaswant Thada in their works.
FAQ’s
Q: How long does it take to visit Jaswant Thada?
A: It takes about an hour to visit The cenotaph, depending on your interest and pace.
Q: Is there any facility for food and water in Jaswant Thada?
A: There is no facility for food and water in Jaswant Thada, but visitors can bring their own food and water, but they are not allowed to litter or eat inside the cenotaph or the garden. There are some shops and stalls outside the cenotaph complex that sell snacks and beverages.
Q: Is there any facility for parking in Jaswant Thada?
A: There is a parking lot near the entrance of Jaswant Thada, where visitors can park their vehicles for free. The parking lot is managed by the cenotaph authorities and has security guards.
Q: Is there any facility for disabled or elderly visitors in Jaswant Thada?
A: There is no facility for disabled or elderly visitors in Jaswant Thada, as there is no lift or wheelchair access in the cenotaph complex. However, visitors can hire a palanquin or a doli (a seat carried by two or four men) to reach the cenotaph from the parking lot.
Conclusion
Jaswant Thada is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the beauty and history of Jodhpur. It is a place where you can witness the royal legacy and tribute of the Rathore rulers, who built and ruled over this magnificent cenotaph for centuries. It is a place where you can admire the craftsmanship and creativity of the artisans, who carved and painted this splendid cenotaph with Makrana marble.
It is a place where you can enjoy the serene and peaceful atmosphere amid the garden and the lake. It is a place where you can feel the spirit and soul of Marwar, which lives on in this glorious cenotaph.
