The Ahar cenotaphs, or Mahasatiya, are the royal cremation ground of the Maharanas of Mewar, about 3 km east of the Old City. Around 250 white marble and stone chhatris (domed memorials) stand here, next to a small museum on the ancient Ahar civilisation. Entry is a small fee and an hour is enough.
Key facts
- About 250 cenotaphs of Mewar rulers and their families
- Located in Ahar, about 3 km east of Lake Pichola
- Next to the Ahar archaeological museum, covering a culture dating back about 4,000 years
- One of the calmest heritage sites in the city
Most visitors to Udaipur never come to Ahar, which is exactly why we love it. Across the road from a busy market, behind a gate, around 250 white domes stand in rows: the memorials of the Maharanas of Mewar.
What you’ll see
The site, known locally as Mahasatiya, has been the royal cremation ground for centuries. Each chhatri, a domed pavilion on pillars, marks where a ruler or member of the royal family was cremated. Some are small and plain; others are large, carved and set on high platforms. The cenotaph of Maharana Amar Singh, one of the largest, is a good place to start.
Ask the caretaker which chhatri belongs to which Maharana. They know the stories and are usually happy to share them.
The Ahar museum
Next door, a small archaeological museum covers the Ahar culture, a Chalcolithic (copper age) settlement that flourished here around 4,000 years ago, long before Udaipur existed. Pottery, tools and figurines from excavations at the nearby mound are on display.
Visiting
- Entry: a small fee at the gate.
- Time needed: about an hour, including the museum.
- Best time: late afternoon, when the light warms the stone and it’s cooler.
- Getting there: about 15 minutes by auto from the Old City.
Why go
Because it shows another side of Mewar’s royal history, the one about memory and loss rather than palaces and parties. And because, compared with the City Palace at noon, you can hear birds here.
It’s one of our favourite hidden places in Udaipur. For more history, read the history of Udaipur in 10 minutes.
Frequently asked questions
What is a cenotaph or chhatri?
A chhatri is a domed, open pavilion built as a memorial at the place where a ruler or noble was cremated. The word means umbrella, after the shape of the dome.
Is the Ahar cenotaphs site worth visiting?
Yes, if you like history and quiet places. It's beautiful in the late afternoon light and you'll often have it almost to yourself.
How far is Ahar from the City Palace?
About 3 km east, around 15 minutes by auto.
