Jaswant Thada – the beautiful marble mausoleum in Jodhpur
Downhill from the mighty Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, there is a delicate marble monument, commonly known as the Taj Mahal of Marwar; a milky white structure that stands ethereal against the backdrop of the bright Rajasthani sky. It is a most fascinating structure, with its array of fanciful domes, intricate carvings, and quaint fusion of Rajput and Mughal architectural elements.
The Jaswant Thada mausoleum, for that is the name of this monument, is certainly one of the places most worth seeing when one is visiting Jodhpur. Jaswant Thada is also conveniently located within walking distance from the Mehrangarh Fort, and so is easy to reach on foot.
I knew that exploring this intriguing structure would be a rewarding experience the moment I saw its beautiful silhouette looming in the distance.
Table of Contents
The History of Jaswant Thada
The marble cenotaph was constructed by Maharaja Sardar Singh of Jodhpur State in the end of the 19th century in honor of his late father, Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. The place is used as a cremation ground by the royalties of Jodhpur, and one can see the photos and paintings of the former Marwar rulers inside the mausoleum.
The Architectural Excellence of Janswant Thada
The architectural excellence of this cenotaph lies within both its excellent workmanship and construction materials. The pure white marble creates a beautiful contrast with the reds of the staircase and the walls. The emerald greens of the doors and windows add to the charm of the structure. Caressed by the generous sunlight and polished to perfection, the delicate marble surfaces of the mausoleum exude a lovely soft glow.
The arches, pillars, and jharokhas of the cenotaph are tastefully adorned with elaborate carvings. While the whole monument was constructed according to the rules of traditional Rajput architecture, its quaint domes were obviously inspired by the Mughal motifs. With all these details put together, the imposing structure of Jaswant Thada creates a truly mesmerizing effect.
One of the things that kept me captivated while exploring the Janswant Thada’s facade was the intricate marble jaalis. Little I knew that someone was actually observing me from behind the latticework window. “You can also go inside”, – I startled at the sound of someone’s voice. A seemingly deserted mausoleum was not so deserted after all. Apparently, the jails are really good at hiding a person in the building while allowing them to see what’s going on outside.
Also read: The Sidi Saiyyed Mosque in Ahmedabad and its Famous Jaali
In spite of the blazing sun, I took my time walking around and savouring the beauty of the monument. Just to make it clear, I made a trip to Jodhpur in May, the hottest month of the Indian summer, when the temperatures in Rajasthan soar as high as 45°C and even more.
The monument is complemented by the lush greens of the garden, spick-and-span lawns and a shallow lake close by, which undoubtedly fills up during the monsoons.
Jaswant Thada Photos
Jaswant Thada Travel Tips
Since the mausoleum is located close to the Mehrangarh fort, it’s advisable to explore these two monuments in one go. From the city of Jodhpur, it’s easy to reach the Mehranghar fort by a tourist bus or an auto rickshaw.
Jaswant Thada on the map
Make sure to wear a pair of comfortable walking shoes as exploring these sites involves extensive walking.
Regardless of the season, carry a bottle of water to keep yourself properly hydrated.
Hats, sunglasses, and sunblocks are your best friends when visiting Jodhpur.
The opening hours are 9 am to 5 pm.
Entry tickets are Rs. 15 for Indian visitors and Rs. 30 for foreigners.
To use a still camera, you’ll need to pay Rs. 25. For video – Rs. 50. Just like any heritage building in Rajasthan, Jaswant Thada is a photographer’s paradise, so make sure to experiment with angles, light and shadows.
Before entering the cenotaph, make sure to remove your footwear as a token of respect.
From the Jaswant Thada memorial, one can enjoy the beautiful views over the Mehranghar fort and Umaid Bhavan Palace.
On an average, it takes around 45 minutes to one hour to explore the place.
If you’re interested in other activities or guided tours in Jodhpur, check out here by clicking the image below:
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Visiting the Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur
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22 Comments
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rupam { xhobdo }
Amazing . Great to read about Jaswant Thada.
Wonderful photos.
Antonina
Thanks, Rupam. Visiting this place was one of the highlights of my trip to Jodhpur.
Aysha Tayab-Ratsep
absolutely stunning photos! thank you for sharing!
Antonina
The pleasure is mine, Aysha!
Matthew
I love the intricate details of structures like these. I could spend hours admiring the details that you mention in your post. Thanks for sharing.
Antonina
Yes, I would have spent hours too if I had more time and it wasn’t so hot. Welcome to my blog, Matthew.
Hannah
Wow this place is breathtaking! I’ll definitely keep it in mind when I’m finally in India!
Antonina
I’m sure you won’t be disappointed, Hannah!
Dan
Dang, that sounds hot! You wouldn’t even know from the great photos. The architecture looks amazing and love the intricacies. Do you know when it was built?
Antonina
It’s not that ancient, unlike the Mehranghar fort. Jaswant Thada was built in the end of the 19th century. And yes, it was the hottest weather I’ve ever experienced!
Marcea
What beautiful stone work! The marble jaalis were my favorites.
Antonina
It seems we have similar preferences, Marcea 🙂 I’m glad you liked the architecture of this place.
Kevin Wagar
That is such a beautiful mausoleaum. Those domes almost look as though they can’t be supported by those pillars. What a gorgeous piece of architecture.
Antonina
Beautiful, isn’t it? No wonder it’s compared to the Taj. Thanks for reading, Kevin.
Susan
The architectural detail is simply amazing. The patience it must take to create this.
Antonina
Yes, it often occurs to me when I look at the intricate stoneworks in India.
Cheryll H
Wow, beautiful images… loving the Jaswant Thada!
Antonina
Thanks, Cheryll!
Yogi Saraswat
Very beautiful pictures from Jaswant Thada …
Antonina
Thanks a lot, Yogi.
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