Since childhood, we have all been fascinated by the Taj Mahal. After all, this monument is a token of love from Emperor Shah Jahan to his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal who’s grave also lies within. But do you know there is another Taj Mahal built in the fond memory of loved ones and it is situated in Blue City, Jodhpur. It is known as 'Jaswant Thada'.
Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur is at the top of the list of every tourist coming here, but very few know about this white gorgeous building hidden in greens right next to the Fort. Even the view of Jaswant Thada from the fort is quite mesmerizing. It's a royal Cenotaph.
Being a localite, let me share the original tales behind this Marble marvel and at the end of it, I am sure you too, will agree that this is indeed the Taj Mahal of Mewar.
Little History Behind the Construction of This Marble-Marvel
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 history goes like when the new capital established at Mehrangarh after moving from Mandore which lies at the outskirts of Jodhpur, the royal family of Marwar wanted to have cenotaphs near Fort. Also, Mandore is the ancient capital of Jodhpur State and this town is also considered to be Mandodari's, Ravana's wife, native place (sorry for the sudden jump from Royal Rajput's to Ramayana but its an interesting history).
One of the reasons this place looks astonishing and fresh is this monument is not as old as Mehrangarh Fort and was built much later in the year 1899.
Why this Cenotaph is Called the Taj Mahal of Mewar?
This peaceful monument is beautified with jalis, artwork works, and photos of Rathore rulers. The detailings are indeed a beautiful blend of Rajputana Style with the Mughal style. The small 'jharokhas' (window) and 'jalis' with intricate carvings are proper Rajasthani details and on the other side, huge dome-like structures resemble the Mughal architecture.
This white memorial's resemblance with the Taj Mahal and built in the memory of loved ones makes it the 'Taj Mahal' of Mewar. This Cenotaph is one of its kind in Rajasthan.
The intricate architecture inside and outside!
Just when you enter, the red walls give a contrasting effect with the white monument in the background. The lush green garden adds more vibes to the contrasting colors. Probably the thought behind keeping red walls is to keep a connection with older cenotaphs in Mandore which are made of red earthy materials.
Once you enter the main building, you will find it peaceful. One interesting fact of this marble marvel is the sunrays pass the marble wall and you will find the wall glowing during day time. The sheets of marble used for construction were polished very thinly to create a sparkling illumination when daylight falls on it. With air ventilation through small windows, the atmosphere is very cool inside. You will also find pictures of various rulers of Jodhpur with details carved.
On one side of this building, there is a small lake where cute little ducks can be spotted floating in sync. The other side of it is a lawn with a beautiful site of Gazebos in a row. These are cenotaphs for the other rulers. Each memorial within the monument is uniquely adorned with artwork and it offers the records of the one to whom every memorial is devoted.
The view of Blue city in the backdrop will leave you awestruck and you can spot the Umaid Bhawan Palace as well from here. Sitting on the lawn with birds chirping all around in the greenery is indeed very soothing and you will find yourself meditating with fresh air all around.
I'm very sure you are going to add this to your Rajasthan Trip itinerary now. Hopefully, I have done justice to the beauty of this monument. It is way more mesmerizing than I could justify.
Getting to Jaswant Thada
- Jodhpur has got great connectivity via Air, Train, or by road. The nearest airport is in the city itself.
- Easy to hire an auto or taxi and Mehrangarh Fort is just 6-7kms from the airport and railway station. Ask your driver to stop by at Jaswant Thada when coming to Fort or you can take a stroll from Fort to this place as well while admiring the blue city 360-degree view from the top.
P.S: Remember to remove your shoes before entering the cenotaph. It's a place to pay respect to the dead. Also, check the timings for visiting the place as rules are changing with the ongoing Pandemic. The entrance fee is just Rs 15 for Indians and Rs 30 for Foreigners.
Pro Travel Tip: The greenery across the monument gives a mesmerizing contrast look, which appears more beautiful for the duration of sunrise and sundown.
Meanwhile take a virtual tour of Jaswant Thada along with me.
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