Gatore Ki Chhatriyan Jaipur

Gaitore Ki Chhatriyan: Exploring Jaipur’s Royal Cenotaphs

Are you fond of exploring lesser known destinations? Gaitore ki chhatriyan in jaipur is the place you must visit, a travellers delight for history buffs.

Places To Visit

Gaitore is amongst the most famous tourist attractions in Jaipur famous for its cenotaphs or ‘Chattris’, well known as Gaitore Chattris. It is the royal crematorium of the Kachhwaha Rajputs, one of the most renowned royal lineages of Rajasthan. The most exquisite and graceful instance in this saga is Jaipur’s famed ‘Gatore ki Chhatriyan.’ The royal crematorium site is situated in the valleys of Nahargarh and Garh Ganesh temple. The place is encompassed by the robust fort walls of Nahargarh from one side and Jaipur city from another. 

Gatore Ki Chhatriyan History

Gaitore Ki Chhatriyan is the place where cenotaphs were erected to perform the last rites of the king and their royal family members. These cenotaphs are the emblems of these royal members’ last rites.  The monument has a ‘Chattris’ (umbrella-shaped semi open dome) dedicated for every ruler from Sawai Jai Singh ll to Man Singh ll. 

The royal cremation ground was chosen as the designated place by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur, after he shifted the capital to the city. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II had the cremation ground of Gaitore built for himself and his family. It is said that Sawai Jai Singh ll himself did the designing of Gaitore ki chhatriyan.

From 1733, after Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II shifted his capital to Jaipur, all the cremations of the Kachhwaha King were done here. This cremation site has many cenotaphs for each Maharaja of Jaipur, except for Maharaja Sawai Ishwari Singh. The cremation of Maharaja Sawai Ishwari Singh was done behind the Chandra Mahal in the City Palace complex. 

Architectural Beauty of Gatore Ki Chhatriyan, Jaipur

Gaitore ki chhatriyan presents a marvelous architectural brilliance that you just can’t miss. The cenotaphs are known for their beauty and artistic Chhatris which are the signature architectural style of Rajputs. These royal cenotaphs have artistically Rajasthani carvings, uttering the glory of the Rajputana emperors. Gaitore cenotaphs are created perfectly with an architectural blend of Islamic or Mughal tomb and Hindu temple. Crematoriums are located north of the hamlet and sloping southwards, according to Vedic norms. A river usually surrounds the the memorials.

The site is famous for its intrinsic carvings on pillars and roofs of the domes designed from marble and sandstone. It is divided into three parts. Stone artwork, round stairs and depictions on the pillars which commemorate the life and lifestyles of historical times. Imprints of paintings which once adorned the walls of the cenotaphs can still be noticed.

Every tomb here is constructed in the shape of chhatris (cenotaphs). These are open domed pavilions which are built on a raised platform. Every cenotaph in Gaitore is designed in accordance with the taste, stature, and power of the specific king in whose memory it was built and the culture which was prevalent in his time.

Prime Attraction of Gatore Ki Chhatriyan in Jaipur

Many tourists come here every day to see delicate patterns and the exquisite beauty of cenotaphs uttering the glory of the Rajputana emperors. This is a royal cremation site of the royal rulers of Jaipur and among the best tourist places to visit in Jaipur

Among the various cenotaphs, the major ones are dedicated to Sawai Ram Singh, Sawai Madho Singh and Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. The three remarkable attractions of this place is the cenotaph of Maharaja Sawai Singh II, the most unusual and stunning. The courtyard has three parts, in the center stands the chhatri of Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur. While the other chhatris are located as per their timings being the farthest from the entrance. 

Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II Chhatri

The cenotaph of Maharaja Sawai Singh II is the most grandiose, decorated with delicate carvings. It truly justifies the era of the greatest ruler of Jaipur. It is made of the highest quality marble i.e. Taj marble or white Makrana marble. This cenotaph still retains its purity and has gathered more attention than any other at Gaitore. This memorial structure has 20 pillars, and the central dome is supported by an octagon; the flower remains a dominant theme in this Chhatri as evident from the carvings. The bracket supporting the roof is carved in the shape of an elephant trunk and features a lotus flower at the bottom.
The pillars have lotus petals at both ends -pedestal and ceiling. Apsara can be seen inside each of the domes on pillars. There are exquisite carvings from Hindu mythology featuring Rama, Krishna, Sheshnag, Samudra Manthan and so on. The plinth depicts elephants and horses with warriors, possibly a war scene. The intention of featuring them in this Chhatri communicates a lot about Maharajah Sawai Jai Singh II’s life. He was a Mansabdaar in Mughal court and fought many wars. Historians deem him for being a far-sighted, witty, and rattling ruler.

Maharaja Ram Singh II’s Chhatri

Maharaja Ram Singh II’s Chhatri is located back to the Maharajah Sawai Jai Singh II’s chhatri. It is identical as well as contains an exact depiction of the regal games of army scenes made of Italian marble. This is something unique; all other structures are unrepeated as far as design elements are considered. 

Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh II Chhatri

Sawai Madho Singh II’s tomb is the largest of all structures in Gaitore, the most intricate and magnificent of all chhatris and it is a one-of-a-kind blend of stone and marble work. It is  constructed from rare Redstone, unlike others that use marble. It has exquisite carvings and a strong European flavor. Its layout is similar to that of the Taj Mahal to some extent. The cenotaph has two stone lions at the entrance as the watch guard. Stepping forward, you witness the remarkable and intricate carvings and decorations. The chattri has pillars in an octagonal pattern. Also, it has vented octagon windows.

Standing in the middle, you can see there are open verandas on all four sides. On its north are the stairs directing to the top of the mausoleum from where you can delight in an amazing view of the chhatris all around. They are twelve in number. There are four huge and eight small chhatris on each of the four corners. This memorial exemplifies Jaipur’s architectural significance and beauty. 

Interesting Facts of Gatore Ki Chhatriyan Jaipur

The Gaitore word comes from the Hindi phrase ‘Gaye Ka Thor’, which means ‘resting place of the deceased’.

An extended powerful Fort wall attaches Nahargarh Fort and Gaitore site. It is said that the safe passage was used by the royal family of Jaipur to reach Gaitore from Nahargarh fort. 

The most famous of these is the cenotaph of Sawai Jai Singh II. A replica of Jai Singh’s cenotaph is also displayed at Kensington Museum in London.

Until a few years ago, the people used to gather here to light lamps to honor their rulers when the sun went down and twilight fell over the beautiful surroundings. Lighting lights represented paying homage to their kings. But, as time passed, this activity faded away.

This site has only the cenotaphs of Jaipur Maharajas and cenotaphs of queens are not found here as they are housed near the road crossing of Ramgarh. These cenotaphs of the queens have a distinct feature; the queens who died prior to their husband’s death had the cenotaph with a roof and the queen who died later to their husband’s, had no roof at their cenotaphs.

Things to Do at Gatore Ki Chhatriyan

In Gatore, there are beautiful tombs of ex-Jaipur rulers. It is worth the stop if you appreciate art, architecture, and history. The carvings of each cenotaph in Gaitore are distinctive and illustrate a different quality of architecture that is bound to attract every bit of a visitor’s attention. 

Many tourists visit this location to click captivating images making it one of the photograph-worthy spots in Jaipur

Gaitore is situated on the Jaipur-Ajmer highway, in an isolated location which is less congested and ideal for those seeking peace. The natural abundance of the surrounding area makes many visitors come here to relax and take in the quiet setting of Gaitore. The tranquil and quiet ambiance is a nice break from the noisy and crowded streets of Jaipur. 

Gaitore is a must-visit tourist site near the city which should not be overlooked by potential tourists. The location provides a spectacular and wide-angle view of the entire city of Jaipur. From the Gaitore, you can visit important landmarks such as the Jal Mahal and Mansarovar lake. 

Tips for Travellers to visit Gatore Ki Chhatriyan in Jaipur

Visitors may consider joining group tours organized by many tourist agencies as with them there is a guide available to make you understand the history of Jaipur and the kings whose mausoleums are built in Gaitore.

You can include visiting Gaitore with other famous tourist destinations of jaipur in a day-long tour. This will save your lot of time without taking up a lot of time in one place. A mixed trip to different destinations will also ease your commute. 

Wearing comfortable shoes, carrying hats and sunglasses etc. are advised to confirm a hassle-free visit  at Gaitore as Jaipur can be quite warm during the summers.

Gatore ki Chhatriyan Jaipur Entry Fees/ Ticket price

For Indians: Rs. 30
For foreigners: Rs. 100

Fees For Adult

For Indians: Rs 40
For foreign tourists: Rs 100

Ticket prices for Children or students between 5-12 years of age

For Indians: Rs 20
For foreign tourists: Rs 50

There is free entry for children below 5 years

The ticket for Senior Citizens, Defense Personals and Specially Abled

For Indians: Rs 30
For foreign tourists: Rs 90

This entry fee includes Camera and small video camera.

Visit to Gaitore is a part of the combined ticket of City Palace, which costs Rs 300 per person for Indians. It comprises entry to Jaipur City Palace, Jaigarh Fort, Gatore, and Maharani Ki Chhatriyan on Amer Road.

Guide Availability 

There are no guides or audio guides available here. Tourists may take help of the tuk-tuk drivers who double up as a guide.

Also check: Jaipur Public Transports: A Quick Guide To The Best Ways To Explore Jaipur

Visiting Hours

The Gatore Chhatriya is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day. The ticket window closes by 4:30 p.m.

Time required to visit

A tour of Gaitore amidst the pretty landscape around the mausoleums does not take much time than two hours. 

Contact Number

91-1412201564

Gatore Ki Chhatriyan Jaipur Address

Krishna Nagar, Brahampuri, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 302002, India

Location

One of the most unique tourist places of Jaipur, Gaitore is located in a valley on route Jaipur-Ajmer. The royal crematorium is situated in the valleys of Nahargarh and Garh Ganesh temple. The fort walls of Nahargarh surround the area on one side and Garh Ganesh temple on the other. It is at an isolated location. 

How to Reach

It is 16 km away from Jaipur and you can easily get local taxis and other means of public transport from here. You can also use private vehicles or book an ola or uber to Gaitore by road. You can then get off and walk a few hundred meters from Brahmapuri to the cenotaphs.

The location is around 6 kilometers away from the Sindhi Camp Bus Stand.

It is around 8 kilometers from the Jaipur Railway Station.

From Jaipur International Airport it is 15 kilometers away.

Best Time to visit Gatore Ki Chhatriyan in Jaipur

Best time to visit the Royal Gaitor is during the death anniversary of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in September. However, in the month of October to March the weather is pleasant and is good for exploring the cenotaphs. Try to visit during daylight as during this time it is easier to explore the detailed patterns wedged into the walls and the domes.