Jaswant Thada cenotaphs
Jaswant Thada is a 19th-century royal cenotaph and serene marble memorial located near Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Built in 1899 in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, the site is renowned for its delicate white marble architecture, intricate perforated screens (jali work), royal portraits, landscaped gardens and beautiful views of the fort and the city. It functions as both a commemorative monument and a peaceful garden retreat within the historic core of Jodhpur.
Location
Jaswant Thada (near Mehrangarh Fort), Jodhpur, India
Duration
30–60 minutes (short visit) — 1.5–3 hours if combined with Mehrangarh Fort and nearby museums
Best Time to Visit
October to March for pleasant weather; visit early morning or late afternoon for softer light and cooler temperatures and best photography conditions.
Pricing
Nominal entry fee for the grounds (typically INR 30–100 for Indian visitors and higher for foreign tourists); additional fees may apply for camera use or guided tours. Please check current rates locally before visiting.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Delicate white marble cenotaphs with finely carved jali (perforated) screens
Portrait gallery and memorial plaques honoring Marwar rulers
Manicured gardens and peaceful ponds providing a tranquil setting
Panoramic views of Mehrangarh Fort, the city of Jodhpur, and surrounding landscape
Excellent location for photography at sunrise/sunset and for cultural/architectural appreciation
Itinerary
Enter the Jaswant Thada complex, purchase tickets if required, and walk through the main gateway.
There are steps and slight elevation changes; expect a short walk from parking or drop-off points.
Examine the main white marble cenotaphs, observe the jali work and carved details.
Take time to read inscriptions and notice the craftsmanship of the memorials.
See the portrait gallery and stroll the landscaped lawns and ponds.
This is a quiet spot to rest and photograph the memorial and Mehrangarh backdrop.
Walk to viewpoints for sweeping vistas of Mehrangarh Fort and the blue city beneath.
Best during golden hour for dramatic lighting and fewer harsh shadows.
Head uphill or around to Mehrangarh Fort for a combined heritage visit.
Allow at least 1.5–2 hours for Mehrangarh if you plan to explore the museum and ramparts.
Safety Requirements
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and plenty of water, especially in summer
Comfortable footwear for steps, uneven paths and short climbs
Watch small children near steps, ponds and low parapets
Respect local customs: modest dress when visiting religious or memorial spaces
Confirm accessibility options in advance if mobility assistance is required
Tips
Combine your visit with Mehrangarh Fort — Jaswant Thada is adjacent and makes a compact half-day heritage circuit
Best light: arrive at sunrise or late afternoon for soft, warm tones and fewer crowds
Bring a polarizing filter or wide-angle lens for better architectural photos and reduced glare on marble
Check opening hours (typically around 09:00–17:00) and local ticketing rules before visiting
Hire a licensed local guide at the entrance or book a guided tour for richer historical context and anecdotes
Carry small change for entry fees, camera permits, and refreshments
