Jaswant Thada

Jaswant Thada is often included on sightseeing tours of Jodhpur, which usually pair it with Blue City attractions such as the nearby Mehrangarh Fort. The serene site overlooks a small lake, with views of both the fort and Umaid Bhawan Palace. It’s a favorite of those looking to learn more about Rajasthan’s Rajput heyday, as the structure displays portraits of past rulers and Maharajas. In addition to the main memorial, the complex has three other cenotaphs and a royal crematorium.

Some of the site’s dreamiest details include the intricately carved white marble screens covering the windows, an architectural motif known as jalis. Jaswant Thada also has tombs of other bygone Marwar rulers. Keep an eye out for one unusual tribute, to a peacock that died after flying into a Maharaja’s funeral pyre. Make sure to spend time wandering the garden, with its relaxing greenery, multi-tiered lawn, and shady gazebos. It’s a great escape from the bustle of the city.

• The Jaswant Thada is also known as a music venue. You can catch performances of traditional Rajasthani melodies during peak season. Check the schedule in advance to see what’s on.

• Bring a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of water, as the Rajasthani sun can be infamously strong. You’ll have to take off your shoes to enter the cenotaph.

• There’s an admission fee to enter the grounds, reduced if you’re an Indian citizen. If you want to take photos, be prepared to pay an extra charge to bring along a photo or video camera.

The Jaswant Thada is a 15-minute walk away from Mehrangarh Fort, although be warned that the walk is mostly uphill. You can easily flag down an auto-rickshaw if you’d prefer not to go the whole way on foot. If you visit the cenotaph as part of a tour, then many options include hotel pickup and drop-off from anywhere in Jodhpur.

The best time to visit Jodhpur is October through March, when temperatures are mild and many Blue City cultural activities are planned. The Jaswant Thada is open year-round from morning until late afternoon. As the memorial also hosts musical concerts, check the schedule to see when singers will be performing. Nearby Mehrangarh Fort is the venue for the annual Rajasthan International Folk Festival, held in fall.

There’s a lavish-looking sandstone mansion you can see from Jaswant Thada. Built in 1942 and one of the largest private residences in the world, a portion of the sprawling, swoon-worthy Umaid Bhavan Palace is still home to the Maharaja and his family. The rest now operates as a luxury hotel. The rooms and suites are a budget-breaking indulgence, but backpackers can soak up the royal ambiance by popping in for a cocktail or tea.