Jal Mahal in Jaipur
Jal Mahal, also known as the Water Palace, is an architectural wonder located in the heart of Jaipur, Rajasthan, This stunning palace is surrounded by water which makes it a unique destination for tourists and local people.
The palace was built in the 18th century by Maharaja Jai Singh II as a summer retreat for the royal family. One can get the beautiful view of the Aravalli Hills and Man Sagar Lake from the palace of Jal Mahal.
Meaning of Jal Mahal
Jal Mahal mean “Water Palace” which is a five-story building having four floors submerged in water.
Visiting Detail
- Location: Amer Road, Jal Mahal, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan – 302002
- Closed on: All 7 days open
- Timings: 12:00 am to 7:00 pm
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best time to visit: October to March | During sunrise and sunset
Architectural features
- The palace is made of red sandstone and features intricate carvings and beautiful domes that showcase the skill and craftsmanship of the artisans who built it.
- The architecture of the palace is a perfect blend of Rajput and Mughal styles, with domes and jharokhas (balconies) being the prominent features.
- The doors and windows of the palace are beautifully arched.
Use of Jal Mahal by Maharajas
The palace was originally built as a hunting lodge for the Maharajas. Later, it was used as a summer resort for the royal family. People also say that the palace was used as a place for duck hunting and the Maharajas used to enjoy this sport activity from the top floor of the palace.
Restoration of the palace
The palace was abandoned for many years and fell into disrepair. However, in recent years, the government has undertaken a massive restoration project to restore it to its former glory.
Read also: Amer Fort, Jaipur – A Visual Treat to Your Eyes
Highlights of Jal Mahal
- There is a rooftop terrace on the palace known as Chameli Bagh from where one can get the view of Man Sagar lake and the Aravalli hills from distance.
- The terrace of the palace is covered with lush gardens, fountains and pavilions.
- The palace was built with a basement that submerges in water. This is the unique feature of the palace. The royals used to use this lake during the hot summer months.
- The surroundings of Jal Mahal has the traditional Rajasthani architecture, painted in bright colors.
Things to do at Jal Mahal
- Visitors can take boat rides in the lake.
- There are many gardens and parks nearby where the visitors can sit and relax.
- The lake in the palace is also home to a variety of migratory birds that come from different areas during the winter months. This makes the bird watchers and nature enthusiasts an interesting and charming place.
- You can take a guided tour of the palace to learn about its unique architecture and rich history.
Tips and Guidelines to visit the Jal Mahal palace
- The palace is open to visitors from 9 am to 5 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.
- The palace is surrounded by a lake, and visitors have to walk a short distance to reach it. Additionally, there are several stairs to climb inside the palace, so comfortable shoes are a must.
- Photography is only allowed from designated areas, and visitors are not allowed to touch or disturb any artifacts.
- It is recommended to hire a local guide which can provide you valuable insights and stories that can enhance your experience.
A trip to Jal Mahal
- Firstly, try to have a good and filling breakfast at one of the local cafes in Jaipur. Then, take a taxi or a car to reach Jal Mahal. It is located about 6 km from the city center.
- One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Jal Mahal is by taking a boat ride on the lake. You can also hire a boat from the nearby vendors and take a beautiful ride around the palace.
- After the boat ride, you can explore the palace from the outside and take in the detailed view of the architecture. You’ll also get to see a variety of migratory birds that visit the lake during the winter months.
