GAITORE
(MEMORIALS OF KINGS)
Just off the Jaipur-Amber road is Gaitore, where the former Maharajas of Jaipur are entombed. The chhatris (cenotaphs), made of white marble display the distinctive Rajput style of architecture. The open pavilions with ornate domes are supported by delicately sculpted pillars. The crematorium is located in the middle of yellow sandstone hills. The décor and extravagance of a particular chattri is meant to reflect the stature and prowess of the ruler it contains. The most graceful and beautiful chattri at Gaitor is that of Maharaja Jai Singh with 20 carved pillars. Tourists are especially drawn towards it because of its intricate carvings.
Gaitore, one of the most prominent tourist attractions in Jaipur, is a royal cremation ground for the Kachhwaha Rajput kings and the members of the royal family. The word 'Gaitore' is believed to be a mispronounced form of the Hindi phrase, 'Gaye ka Thor' which means 'resting place of the departed souls'. Located on a narrow valley on Jaipur-Amer road, this place is 15 km away from Jaipur. The valley has cenotaphs (chhatri) made of marble and sandstone with Rajastani carvings, dedicated to legendary kings who ruled Jaipur.
A perfect blending of Islamic and Hindu temple architecture, Gaitore has cenotaphs of Sawai Ram Singh, Sawai Madho Singh and Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II and so on. Among these kings, the cenotaph of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II is quite impressive with its intricate peacock carvings and designs on beautiful white marble structure. It is said that the carvings on each cenotaph reflects the taste of the respective king. Read further to know more about Gaitore and its historic significance.
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