Ahar Cenotaphs

The Ahar Cenotaphs in Udaipur are the royal cremation ground of the Mewar dynasty. Around 250 raised domed pavilions stand on the site, among them 19 chhatris for maharanas cremated here. The tradition began with Maharana Amar Singh II, the first Mewar ruler honoured at this spot, in 1710. An archaeological museum stands close by.

The largest and most photographed memorial is that of Maharana Sangram Singh, built in 1734. Its eight-sided dome rests on eight pillars, and its carvings include tridents, lotuses, images of Shiva and portraits of the ruler. The other cenotaphs are richly decorated too, with stone carving covering their domes and columns, and the quiet grounds make a calm place to study the craftsmanship.