Gaitore
is situated on the Jaipur-Amber road, about 15 kms from Jaipur. Gaitore
is a royal cremation site of the majestic rulers of Jaipur. There is a
cenotaph for each Maharaja, built in his honor. These royal cenotaphs of
the Maharajas are commonly known as 'Chhatris'. The royal chhatris are
engraved with typical Rajasthani carvings. Gaitore is regarded to be the
mispronounced form of a Hindi phrase 'Gaye ka Thor' which means 'resting
place of the departed souls'.The cenotaphs are erected with a perfect blend of architectural essentials of Islamic tomb architecture and Hindu temple architecture. Amongst all the cenotaphs, the one dedicated to Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II appeals the most. This Chhatri is built in pure white marble, ornamented with delicate carvings, peacocks and beautiful designs. Although all the Maharajas of Jaipur were cremated here, but Maharaja Sawai Ishwari Singh was an exception to this ritual. He was cremated behind the Chandra Mahal in the City Palace complex, so his cenotaph was built there with the due respect.
The designs carved on each Chhatri represent the taste of the particular Maharaja, in whose honor it was built. This cremation ground of the Kachhawaha rulers of Jaipur stands there, since the time of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur. The Cenotaphs, which were built in the honor of Maharanis of Jaipur, are located in the Maharani Ki Chhatri complex near to Ramgarh road crossing.
Gaitore is a special place with its own charm, displaying the royal past of Jaipur and its imperial rulers. Gaitore Chhatris with its beautiful artistry and majestic history attracts tourists from India as well as abroad.
