Jal Mahal

The pink city, as Jaipur is known as, is the capital of Rajasthan, a state in western India. The region was previously known as Rajputana, the abode of the Rajputs, a group of ruling dynasties which were known for their bravery and valor. The city is known for many historic structures including famous buildings like the Hawa Mahal, the city palace, Amber Fort, Jaigarh Fort and the Jal Mahal. Located six kilometers from the city on the way to Amber, this palace is yet another Rajput building which, along with the famous buildings make up the major attractions of tourism in Jaipur.

Despite its lost grandeur, this deserted palace stands proud, submerged in the waters of the Man Sagar Lake. The Jal Mahal, or the Water Palace, was built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799. The lake and its surroundings offered the royalty with opportunities for hunting and spending time in leisure. It is one of the most unique and beautiful tourist spots in Jaipur, and a visual treat for the tourists.

The palace used to be the leisure and hunting retreat for the rulers of Amber. Many duck shooting expeditions have been recorded during the reign of Sawai Madho Singh. Presently four floors of the palace are under water, while the top floor rises up above the water, presenting a unique sight. The palace is lit up at night and looks stunning, with the lit up building being reflected by the lake�s water. The submerged palace proves that in its full glory, the Jal Mahal was one of the most beautiful palaces of Rajasthan.

The palace is surrounded by the Nahargarh hills and beautiful gardens are located towards the south of the palace. The lake and its surroundings attract many species of migratory birds. This makes the Jal Mahal palace a favored destination of many ornithologists and amateur bird watchers.

The palace is built of red sandstone with elements from Rajasthani and Mughul architecture beautifully fused together. The red glow of the building when hit by the golden rays of the sun creates a surreal atmosphere around the palace. Tourists looking for a peaceful time away from the city�s bustle can come to the Jal Mahal and its surroundings to enjoy a relaxing picnic, much as the erstwhile royalty used to do.

A trip to the Jal Mahal is one of the most entertaining experiences in Jaipur. A tour of the palaces of Rajasthan remains incomplete without a stop at this elegant water palace.

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