Jantar Mantar, Jaipur

So far in Jaipur we have covered palaces, and other attractions. We also explored three different forts - Nahargarh Fort, Jaigarh Fort and Amber Fort. Apart from these another important place in Jaipur is Jantar Mantar. Thia when translated into English stands for Calculation Instruments.

It is a observatory with collection of architectural astronomical instruments. In 1728 then Maharaja of Jaipur Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh-II had got this place constructed in 7 years. Himself being a keen follower of astronomy, not only did the masonry instruments suit his purposes, they also satisfied his architectural instincts.

It severed the dual purpose of verifying astronomical observations as well as to stimulate interest in astronomy. It was built keeping in mind the rules of astronomy, the position of the equator, latitudes and longitudes. The observatory consists of fourteen major geometric devices for measuring time, predicting eclipses, tracking stars in their orbits, ascertaining the declinations of planets, and determining the celestial altitudes and related ephemerides.

Samrat Yantra

The Giant Sundial (Samrat Yantra) is the world's largest sundial, standing 27 meters tall. The shadow of the instrument moves visibly at 1 mm per second, which for most people is a visibly profound experience.

This observatory is one of the 5 he had created in his time across the nation. Other popular observeatory is in Delhi. But one here in Jaipur is largest.

P.S: December is the month when lot of tourists land in Rajasthan. So if you really want all the arrangements to be done properly this has to be done before October end.

Amber Fort, Jaipur

Along with palaces, and other attractions we set our eyes on exploring the most important tourist attractions of the city i.e., the forts. The third fort in Jaipur we followed after the Nahargarh Fort and Jaigarh Fort is Amber Fort.

Built in 1592 on barren ridge by Raja Man Singh, it is one of the finest examples of Rajput architecture. It provides impressive views over a deep narrow valley and the wider plains beyond. It is located on the hills that surround Jaipur. The fort that sprawls along the Maotha Lake, is composed of a massive complex gateways, courts, stairways and pillared pavilions, and palaces.

From the bottom of the hill one can reach the fort over the hill either by using stairways or elephant ride. For a nominal fee they carry two to three people on elephant to the top where front courtyard of the complex exists.

The entire fort complex, is constructed of white and red sandstone. The imposing rugged outlook of the fort is of the stark contrast to to the inside, a lavish ornate interior which is combination of both Hindu and Mughal styles of architecture. Some of the interior walls of the fort are covered with murals, frescoes, and paintings depicting various scenes from daily life. Other walls are covered with intricate carvings, mosaic, and minute mirror work. The front yard is adorned with the marvelous, pillared hall of the Diwan-i-Am, and the two - tiered painted gateway Ganesh Pol. Once you enter through the Ganesh Pol, the structure of special interests inside are Sheesh Mahal, Jas Mandir.

Ganesh Pol in the front yard

Sheesh Mahal is the palace of mirrors. The walls of this palace as the name suggests are inlaid with exquisite mirrors.

Sheesh Mahal

The Jas Mandir, located on the upper floor, is a superb combination of Mughal and Rajput style of architecture, as can be seen from the exquisitely carved Jali screens, and fine mirror and stucco work.

P.S: December is the month when lot of tourists land in Rajasthan. So if you really want all the arrangements to be done properly this has to be done before October end.

Jaigarh Fort, Jaipur

Along with palaces, and other attractions we set our eyes on exploring the most important tourist attractions of the city i.e., the forts. The second fort in Jaipur we followed after the Nahargarh Fort is Jaigarh Fort.

This fort is very rugged in structure and is of very less artistic importance. It has huge fort walls, watch towers, palaces and temples. The palace is now converted into museum. This was built in 1726 by Sawai Jai Singh. This fort is also known as Fort of Victory. It was built mainly to safeguard Amber Fort from the enemy attacks which is more of artistic in nature. The fort is perched on a cliff and the walkways inside the fort provide the breathtaking views of the surroundings.

The World's largest cannon on wheel, Jaiban, is to be found here. There is a huge water pit close to the cannon at a lower level. It is believed that the sound generated by firing this cannon was so huge that people close by can become deaf. After firing from this cannon the person has to jump in the water pit to save himself.

View of cannon Jaiban kept under shade and covered by fence

Also of interest is the intricate water supply and storage system, which is considered a marvel of planning.

Next we will explore the Amber Fort.


P.S: December is the month when lot of tourists land in Rajasthan. So if you really want all the arrangements to be done properly this has to be done before October end.