Jal Mahal, Jaipur

Jal Mahal, Jaipur

Jal Mahal, also known as the Jal Mahal underwater Palace, floating palace, or the Water Palace, is widely recognized as one of the world's best examples of Rajput and Mughal architecture. The palace was erected in 1699 and has been extensively refurbished. The Jal Mahal palace offers a beautiful view of Man Sagar Lake and the Nahargarh hills.

The city is filled with magnificent architectural marvels, and Jal Mahal sits at the pinnacle of these works of art. Standing in the center of Man Sagar Lake, the palace gives the impression of practically hovering on the lake at first glance, and this is when the image takes your breath away.

The most appealing characteristic of this mahal is that four of its stories are buried below, with just one above the water level. It includes a garden at the summit with different types of trees and gorgeous flowers.

Given the palace's antiquity and the fact that it is surrounded by so much water, it is remarkable that it has suffered little damage throughout the years. Over the years, there was only a minor amount of water seepage.

Though Jaipur has gained the nickname "Pink City" due to the use of pink stone in the majority of its structures, Jal Mahal is distinctive due to the use of red sandstone in its construction. Visitors may no longer explore the palace as a tourist attraction since it has been turned into a restaurant and guest entrance has been suspended.

Best time to Visit Jal Mahal

The best time to visit Jal Mahal is during the rainy season when the weather is cooler. The rain adds a beautiful edge to the gorgeous sandstone of this palace, making it appear even more stunning. The best month to visit this location is in October since the weather is so beautiful. From October to March, the best time to visit this place is around sunrise or sunset, when the weather is at its best. The palace is lighted with lights after dark, which adds to the overall attractiveness of the location.

Things to do in Jal Mahal

Since typical tourists are not permitted to visit Jal Mahal and public access to the site is restricted, viewing it from the banks of Sagar Lake takes no more than an hour. During the days when the palace was available to the public, gondolas transported passengers over the lake to the palace, allowing them to enjoy a romantic voyage across the lake. There are other various things to do in Jal Mahal.

The lake's perimeter wall is adorned with sitting spaces where guests may sit and enjoy the view of the lake and the castle. Several hawkers sell traditional Rajasthani jewelry, mojris (a traditional type of shoes), and handmade goods on the pavement adjacent to the boundary wall. You can certainly put your negotiating abilities to the test here, and the hawkers would gladly comply.

There are various photographers on hand to take your immediate portrait in traditional dress, and you may even enjoy camel rides. You could also come across a stand or two offering pre-packaged snacks.

Boating on Mansingh Lake is one of the most memorable ways to explore the Jal Mahal. Traditional woodworkers in Vrindavan created these boats, which convey a regal sense as you travel around the lake with them. The Aravali hills, which are home to several outposts and shrines, may also be seen from the lake.

Attractions Nearby Jal Mahal

While planning your day's schedule, you might stop by various temples around Jal Mahal. Garh Ganesh Temple (3.7 km), Badrinath Temple (5.1 km), Govind Dev Ji Temple (5.8 km) and Birla Mandir (9.9 km) are some nearby attractions near Jal Mahal, Jaipur.