Jal Mahal is a magnificent and serene water palace located in Jaipur, the capital of the state of Rajasthan. Jal Mahal is also called a water palace because of its location in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. This palace was once a shooting lodge for the Maharajas, which today remains a center of attraction for tourists from all over the world. Jal Mahal is one of the most beautiful architectural palaces in Rajasthan made up of a fusion of Gall and Rajput styles of architecture.
Here is all you need to know about Jal Mahal,Jaipur.
From its glorious history and architecture to best timings for visit.
History of Jal Mahal
Let us tell you that the history of Jal Mahal is quite obscure. We say this because till date, it is not clear when exactly the palace was built. It is said that Jal Mahal was built in the year 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh as a lodge for duck hunting. But apart from this, it is also said that Jal Mahal was built by Maharaja Madho Singh I in the year 1750. This place was never built to be used as a palace, but was later extended by Maharaja Jal Singh II after seeing the beauty of this palace. Jal Singh II renovated this palace and also added some attractive structures.
Architecture Of Jaipur
Jal Mahal is a five-storied palace, inspired by the Rajput architectural style. Out of five floors of Jal Mahal, four floors are submerged in water and you can see only its fifth floor. The palace is built of red sandstone and has four octagonal shaped chhatris at its corners. This palace was renovated by Maharaja Jal Singh Tiy in the 18th century which has a total of twenty one beautifully carved pillars. There is a garden on the roof of this beautiful palace called Chameli Bagh.
There is a platform in the center of this garden which was used for dancing artists.
Looking for a Sunrise – Sunset spot?
Situated amidst the Nahargarh Hills and submerged in the Man Sagar Lake, the Jal Mahal looks quite beautiful during sunrise and sunset. You can simply sit by it and enjoy scenic beauty from here.
Fill your Shopping Bags here
Many of the best handicrafts and jewellery shops of Jaipur city are located near the palace from where you can buy some attractive things. You can also find some Khadi shops here. If you go to visit Jaipur, then here you can also ride a camel on the bumpy roads.
Heaven for Bird’s Lover
Jal Mahal situated in the middle of Man Sagar Lake is a place which is a paradise for bird-watchers. The place is a home to many migratory and local birds including pintail, pochard, kestrel, flamingo, great crested grebe to name a few but unfortunately since the quality of the lake has declined, the number of birds has also declined significantly. However, after the restoration work, now some birds can be seen at Man Sagar Lake.
Jal Mahal Timings and Entry Fees
The entry of the general public to Jal Mahal has been closed after the government declared it a protected area. Boat rides around the palace have also been stopped. However, this place is still a very special place to spend a peaceful time amidst nature. There is a causeway that encircles the Man Sagar Lake and from here tourists can see the Jal Mahal for which no entry fee is charged.
Spice up your visit to palace
Here you can taste a variety of delicious food. Many types of local food are available here, by eating which tourists become happy. A traditional Rajasthani thali influenced by the Maharajas and Maharanis, you can taste a variety of delicious dishes. A trip to Jaipur is incomplete without indulging in scrumptious delicacies like Daal Baati Churma, Imarti and Ghevar, and the famous Chaat.The sweets here are very popular which include ghevar, imrati, halwa, choorma, gajak, moong thal and many more. While there are many fine dining options for fine dining, you can also relish the exquisite and local street food at Johri Bazaar, Jahan.
Happy Visit!
