Majesty in Stone: Palaces and Cenotaphs

Phase 1: Iconic Palaces

1. Hawa Mahal (Jaipur)

• Built by Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799.
• Architect: Lal Chand Usta.
• Designed like Lord Krishna's crown. 5 stories, 953 windows (Jharokhas).

2. City Palace (Udaipur)

• Described as the "Windsor of Rajasthan" by Fergusson.
• Largest palace complex in Rajasthan.

3. Juna Mahal (Dungarpur)

• Famous for its unique murals and narrow stairs.

4. Ummaid Bhawan Palace (Jodhpur)

• Also known as Chitar Palace (built with Chitar stone).
• One of the world's largest private residences.

Phase 2: Cenotaphs (Chhatris)

Memorials built at the cremation sites of rulers.

1. 84-Pillared Cenotaph (Bundi)

• Dedicated to Lord Shiva.

2. Gaitore ki Chhatriyan (Jaipur)

• Royal cenotaphs of the Kachwaha rulers.

3. Ahar ki Chhatriyan (Udaipur)

• Royal cenotaphs of Mewar rulers (Mahasatyaji).

4. Getore (Jaipur)

• Elegant memorials for Jaipur kings.

[!TIP]
Hawa Mahal: It doesn't have a foundation in the traditional sense; it stands on its own weight and wind-cooling design.