Ahar Cenotaphs Udaipur - A Sightseeing Guide

Visiting the Ahar Cenotaphs is one of the more unique things to do in Udaipur and could be considered somewhat of a hidden gem. Yes, despite being a spot of historical significance, many tourists erroneously it. While we, on the other hand, regard Ahar Cenotaphs to be one of the top places to visit in Udaipur in 2 days!

You see, Ahar is essentially a Royal cemetery for Udaipur’s late Maharajas. However, what might sound like a dark place on paper is, in fact, a spot of peace and serenity. Furthermore, if you are at all interested in Rajasthani architecture, you are sure to be left in awe by the intricately carved stone tombs.

In this guide, we advise everything you need to know ahead of visiting Ahar Cenotaphs in Udaipur. Including entrance fees, opening times, what to expect & more.

Ahar Cenotaphs Udaipur – A Sightseeing Guide

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How to Get There

Udaipur is an essential addition to any Rajasthan itinerary. It is one of the most popular tourist cities in the country and forms a part of our suggested one month in India Route. You can conveniently reach Udaipur via bus, train, or plane from all over the country.

Set on the outskirts of the city, 2km away from Lake Pichola, the Ahar Cenotaphs can easily be reached on foot if you don’t mind working up a sweat. Alternatively, you can take a rickshaw or taxi, which are both easy to come by in Udaipur.

Another way of getting around in Udaipur is to rent a scooter or bicycle; however, I only recommend doing so if you feel confident. Like most places in India, the roads in Udaipur are a rat race, so you need to have your wits about you at all times.

Bike rental shops are present throughout the city, and the average daily rental is 500 rupees ($7) per day for a basic scooter or bicycle.

Ahar Cenotaphs Udaipur Entry Fee

There is no entry fee to the Ahar Cenotaphs. However, be wary of locals who try to charge you for using a camera. This is a common scam, and you do not have to pay.

Conversely, if you wish to enter the Ahar museum located nearby, the charge is 3 rupees per person.

Ahar Cenotaphs Udaipur India — Just us and the cows at Ahar Cenotaphs, Udaipur

Things to Know Before Visiting

Opening Times

The Ahar Cenotaphs are open to visitors 7-days a week from 6.00 am to 6.00 pm.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of year for sightseeing in Udaipur is during the Indian Winter, which runs from October-February. You can expect a dry and cooler climate during this time, resulting in a far more enjoyable experience!

As already mentioned, Ahar Cenotaphs are not currently a popular tourist attraction in Udaipur. Consequently, you can visit at any time during the day and expect to find this spot all to yourself.

We discovered that late afternoon was the perfect time to visit when we could capture some beautiful golden hour photos.

Time Required

You will need to allow around 2-3 hours to visit the Ahar Cenotaphs, including travel time from the city.

Photography Tips

There are some fantastic photo opportunities at the Ahar Cenotaphs; however, here are some things to be aware of before you visit.

While we all want the perfect photo, remember where you are. Climbing the cenotaphs or damaging them in any way is deemed highly disrespectful.
Visit just after sunrise or before sunset for a gorgeous golden hour glow.
Be wary of the locals who try to charge you for using a camera. It’s a scam, and you do not have to pay!

AHAR CENOTAPHS TOMB — You can find this iconic tomb at the entrance of Ahar Cenotaphs Udaipur

Our Experience at Ahar Cenotaphs in Udaipur

After stumbling on a stunning photo from the Ahar Cenotaphs on Instagram, we immediately wanted to visit. (Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram here!) At this point, we had no idea that the complex was in-fact a crematorium. All we knew was that the location looked majestic and we wanted to see it.

Of course, a quick google search confirmed what we were letting ourselves in for; however, we didn’t allow ourselves to be put off by the facts. No, to be honest, we were even more excited! Something about visiting felt mysterious and compelling.

We arrived by tuk-tuk and told our driver to wait for us. We didn’t know what to expect but gathered it couldn’t take long for us to get around. At this point, our driver told us we needed to pay the men at the gate if we wanted to use our camera. However, these guys looked shady, and no sign or ticket office was advertising the charge.

In the unliteral sense, we could smell a rat. Well probably literally as well – this is India after all. Anyhow, we told our driver we didn’t have a camera and made our way into the grounds. It seems our suspicions were correct, as upon checking with our hotel, later on, they confirmed this was indeed a scam.

While we can understand the locals being opportunists when it comes to tourists, it can sometimes wear thin in India. With this in mind, please refuse to give them money should you be approached, and hold your ground. It is also worth educating yourself on the common scams in India, so consequently, you can avoid them.

What to Expect at Ahar Cenotaphs

There’s not too much to say in regards to the complex itself, other than how beautiful and peaceful it is. Like most architecture in India, the cenotaphs are a token of exquisite artistry and excellence. Something about the intricate detail is unfathomable. It’s hard to imagine somebody chipping away at the stone to create such a magnificent masterpiece.

The most impressive cenotaph in the complex is that of Maharana Sangram Singh. Built-in the year 1734, it seems to watch over all the other cenotaphs in the grounds. The octagonal dome, supported by several pillars, makes for a wonderful photo opportunity and we even encountered a wedding photoshoot here.

We ended up spending far longer at the cremation grounds than expected. More so to immerse in the tranquillity that the complex provides. If you plan on visiting Udaipur, we highly recommend visiting the Ahar Cenotaphs as part of your sightseeing tour.

Where to Stay in Udaipur

Whether you are looking for luxury, mid-range, or budget, Udaipur is not short of great accommodation options.

Hostel – Gypsy Child Lake Hostel – One of only a few hostels in Udaipur, Gypsy Lake Child is the top choice thanks to its unrivalled location. Boasting incredible views of Lake Pichola, guests can enjoy the sunset from the rooftop.

Budget Private – Jagat Villa Guesthouse – We can personally recommend Jagat Villa Guesthouse, for affordable, clean & comfortable private rooms. Located just a 5-minute walk from Pichola Lake, you have great restaurants and shopping opportunities right on your doorstep.

Luxury – Taj Lake Palace – It doesn’t get more luxurious than the Taj Lake Palace. Located in the middle of Pichola Lake, we could only look on in awe of this enchanting complex. If you are prepared to splash some cash, a stay here would be a once in a lifetime experience.

For more places to stay in Udaipur, you can check the latest prices HERE.

Are you looking for the best lakeside accomodations only? We’ve got you covered from hostel to luxury in this article here.

More on Udaipur

Are you planning a trip to Udaipur? Check out our other articles to help plan your trip.

The Perfect 1 Month India Itinerary – India Backpacking Route
The Best Rajasthan Itinerary for 5 Days or More
18 Amazing places to see in Udaipur in 2 days
Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Udaipur
7 Awesome Sunset Spots in Udaipur
Udaipur City Palace – A Sightseeing Guide
Karni Mata Temple – A Sightseeing Guide
Monsoon Palace Udaipur – A Sightseeing Guide
The Best Lake Facing Hotels in Udaipur

Did you enjoy our Sightseeing Guide to Ahar Cenotaphs Udaipur, India?

Well, that concludes Sightseeing Guide to Ahar Cenotaphs Udaipur in India. We hope you enjoy your time in this magical country. If you have any questions or feel we have missed anything, please reach out to us in the comment section below, through our contact us page. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram here where we share further travel advice & inspiration.

Stay adventurous and Happy travels.

Charlotte & Natalie x

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