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Jaswant Thada | The Taj Mahal of Marwar
By: Kamal Nayan
Jaswant Thada, Jodhpur
Jaswant Thada, in the royal kingdom of Jodhpur, is a magnificent marble monumental monument that is also a mausoleum for the kings of Marwar. The memorial was built in honor and memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II by his son Maharaja Sardar Singh in 1899 and is still used as a cremation ground by the Marwar royal family. The beautiful building is made of intricately carved marble that vibrates in contrast to the red stairs leading to the entrance. Jaswant Thada in Jodhpur is considered an architectural landmark and is a must-see by all. On the steps leading up to the monument, local musicians and folk dancers can be seen entertaining the visitors.
The cemetery also has a beautifully maintained garden which tourists can visit along with the monument. You can trace the intricate artistry of the carved stones. The finely carved thin sheets of marble are commendable. The whole structure is like a temple of unmatched beauty. It is also called the Taj Mahal of Marwar and attracts tourists from all over the world.
The architecture of Jaswant Thada
Jaswant Thada is adorned with marble sheets and is situated amidst beautiful multi-level gardens and a serene lake. It also has three more graves and the crematorium is reserved only for the royal family. The marble sheets are very thin and intricately carved and are therefore a perfect example of skilled marble sculpture. The monument has many domes and shikharas which give it a temple-like appearance. Some parts are surprisingly similar to the Taj Mahal. That is why it is also called the Taj Mahal of Marwar. The tomb also has lattice curtains which add to the beauty of the architecture. There is also a monument to bird, which is said to have flown into the 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 wintertime and the scorching heat can be avoided. It is best explored during the morning or evening as the temperature remains pleasant during these hours.
Tips for Traveling to Jaswant Tada
1. To reach the graveyard, one has to climb a little on the hill.
2. Wear appropriate clothing and sun protection when searching for attractions.
3. Take enough water and keep yourself hydrated.
4. You are expected to take off your shoes when entering the grave 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 is situated on the way to Mehrangarh Fort. Tourists can take public transport to reach the cemetery. Auto-rickshaws and buses are a major mode of local transport here, although tourists can choose to cab hire in Jodhpur. Those who opt for self-propelled vehicles can reach Jaswant Thada in about 30 minutes from the city centre via NH62.
Last Updated: 25th March 2022