Rajasthan is a state that is synonymous to magnificence, it houses not one or two but innumerable masterpieces of architecture. These medieval architectures bring that old world charm in today’s modern and urbanized Rajasthan.
One of the captivating beauties of Rajasthan is Jal Mahal of Jaipur also called Pink City. The word Jal Mahal translates to ‘Water Place’. As this beautiful monument is built right in the middle of Man Sagar Lake it is named Jal Mahal. Jal Mahal is situated on the Amer- Jaipur road which about 4 km North from Jaipur.
Jal Mahal was built in 18th century as a duck hunting lodge by Maharaja Madho Singh I. The architecture style of this famous monument has strong Rajput vibes but it also incorporates some elements of Mughal architecture hence making it a marvellous amalgamation of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture.
Over the period of time repair, maintenance and restoration of the palace have done by different rulers. One such example is Maharaja Jai Singh II who added beautiful garden this palace making it even more charming.
Jal Mahal is situated amidst picturesque location with Nahargarh hills in the backdrop and surrounded by a serene lake
The palace looks absolutely stunning from outside and makes onlookers want to go inside this palace and explore. Sadly going inside the palace is not allowed. But that’s ok looking at this charming palace from a distance is also a treat to the eyes. It is a lovely location to click some stunning pictures.
There used to boats (which I did not see this time there) that allowed visitors to enjoy the beautiful surroundings while boating. These boats are said to be handcrafted by the very talented craftsmen.
Architecture – Jal Mahal:
Jal Mahal is built with red sandstone. It is a five storey place. Four out of its five storeys are underwater and only one storey is above the water.
It is flanked by 4 octagonal chattris one on each corner. Beautiful marble work is incorporated in various the palace, which gives is that Rajasthan’s Royal touch. There are 20 pillars in the palace that are the cenotaph dedicated to the family of Raja Jai Sigh.
The arches and ceiling of the palace are carved with absolute mastery. Organic construction materials such as herbs, sand, and lime were used in the construction of this exquisite piece of architecture.
Special architectural and engineering techniques have been used to build this palace. The architects and engineers used lime mortar to build this palace so water seepage could be prevented. This is for this well-thought techniques that this fort is standing tall at this site from centuries.
Attractions of the Jal Mahal Includes:
- Chameli Bagh – Terrace Garden Corridors.
- Palace Chattri
- 4
Chattris/ cupolas namely :
- Chini Burj – incorporates Rajasthani blue pottery
- Pitli Burj – this cupola is built of brass.
- Aina Burj – incorporated gorgeous mirror work
- Shobha Burj – incorporates designs of Rajasthani jewelry.
- 4 Artistic
halls Namely:
- Anand Mahal Tibari – in this hall intricate pattern crafted in Gold and Blue adore the hall.
- Gulab Tibar – It was adorned with the decoration of beautiful roses.
- Badal Mahal Tibari – Beautiful designs of skies and clouds beautify this hall.
- Raas Niwas Tibari – This hall had stunning paintings of Lord Krishna.
The lake used to house over 150 species of bird that included Flamingos, Pintail, Great Crested Grebe, Kestrel, Marsh sandipper, coot, Red-breasted flycatcher etc. But the deteriorating condition of the lake led to a sharp decline in their number.
A few years ago both lake and the palace were in pretty bad shape. The water of the lake used to stink and the Jal Mahal had water seepage and other problems. Realizing that this situation could lead to the entire monument getting completely collapsed the authorities took action and repaired the monument.
Jal Mahal is truly a testimonial structure that still reflects upon the grand and royal life that the erstwhile Maharajas used to lead.
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Also read about the other amazing places of Rajasthan Amer Fort , Mehrangarh Fort , Jaislmer Fort
