Jal Mahal: Jewel in the Lake

In this world, India is the only country which has the rare combination of rich diverse cultural and geographical features. Every year, travellers from across the globle comes to India to explore mangificiant monuments each showcasing incredible artistic work, culture and architechure. One of the examples of Indian architecture is Jal Mahal of Jaipur.



JalMahal at night





Jaipur's JalMahal



 Jal Mahal, that means water palace in English, is a beautiful place that is located in the middle of the majestic lake Man Sagar, in Jaipur. Jal Mahal was built by Sawai Pratap Singh, the ruler of Jaipur from 1778 to 1803. Jal Mahal is considered as one of the most beautiful architectural palace that was built with the Mughal and Rajputana styles of construction. The 255 year old palace, built in red sandstone, is a five storied building out of which four floors remain under water when the lake is full and the top floor is exposed. Jal Mahal Palace of Jaipur is an extremely romantic place with its red sandstone intricate architecture casting beautiful reflections in the calm and seren waters of the Man Sagar Lake. The palace was built as a pleasure palace  for the royal family and was once used for the royal duck shooting parties. The lake eco system is a favorite home of a number of migratory and resident birds.



Inside JalMahal

 


Aravali View from JalMahl

 

Jal Mahal provides a charming view of the Man Sagar Lake and the Nahargarh hills that surround it.  The Mansagar Dam is situated on the eastern side of the lake and provides a good vantage point for viewing the lake and the valley. The original charm of the palace comes alive in the evening when the entire complex is bathed in flood lights. In evening Jal Mahal shines like a jewel nested in the picturesque Aravali valley.



Breathtaking View of JalMahal in night



Currently the entry in the palace is not allowed, as it is going to turn into the first palace hotel of Jaipur, tourists can see the beautiful palace from the Amber Road (National Highway-8). Visitors can also row to Palace on specially procured boats and though no one can stay in the palace, they are allowed to admire the extensive arts and crafts, if  the majestic monument and the natural charm of water and bird fail to entice them. A rooftop gardern, Chameli Bag, combines the city art tradition with fragment flowering trees ideal for summer evening.

October to March is the best time to visit the beauty of Jal Mahal or the Water Palace. After restoration Jal Mahal is slated to become a major tourist destination  and will be the answer the Pink City has to Jagmandir on Udaipur's Lake Pichola.