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A Travel Guide To Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur

A Travel Guide To Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur majestic Mehrangarh, one of Rajasthan’s finest forts, looks down protectively on the city. The fort is located at a height of around 125 metres and covers a total area of 5 square kilometres, with seven gates. The tiny, not-too-steep hill could be driven up or walked to the top. The steep rock face from which the tall and huge sandstone wall of Mehrangarh rises, whether viewed from a car or on foot, appears incredible.

The Mehrangarh Fort is located in the centre of the city, at an altitude of around 125 metres. It covers a 5-square-kilometer area. The fort includes seven gates, the most notable of which are the Jayapol, which was built by Maharaja Man Singh in 1806; Fatehpol, or the Victory Gate, which was built by Maharaja Ajit Singh; and the Lohapol, or the Iron Gate, which was created by Maharaja Ajit Singh. The sati marks of Maharaja Man Singh’s widows who hurled themselves upon his cremation pyre in 1843 can be seen next to the Lohapol. On the wall, one can see the strategically located cannons.

A Travel Guide To Mehrangarh Fort

A sequence of gardens and palaces greet visitors inside the fort. The palace apartments exhibit a magnificent collection of Indian royal accoutrements. Thousands of tourists visit the fort each year to see the Rajput warriors’ artillery system. From the fort, one may get a bird’s eye perspective of the city.

From the summit, majestic Mehrangarh, one of Rajasthan’s finest forts, looks down protectively on the city. The fort is located at a height of around 125 metres and covers a total area of 5 square kilometres, with seven gates. The tiny, not-too-steep hill could be driven up or walked to the top. Driving or walking up, the sheer rock face from where emerges the tall and massive sandstone wall of Mehrangarh looks awesome indeed.

In front of the mammoth gate of A Travel Guide To Mehrangarh Fort, you can find a bearded Jodhpur resident, dressed in traditional threads, complete with turban, sword, shield and hookah welcoming the tourists. You can also find a couple of local musicians singing to the local tunes. I bought the requisite tickets and set off to explore the palaces, hallways and set off to explore the palaces, hallways and courtyards of Mehrangarh.

It is a royal treat, as one passes through the carefully preserved regalia and regal artefacts. Phool Mahal, Sukh Mahal, Moti Mahal. Exquisitely decorated ceilings and walls, with delicate lattice work on the windows. Large and unusual wooden statues, painted bright, adorned a palace section amongst an assortment of princely cradles. It is a labyrinth of wonders, not knowing what the next doorway might lead to.

Through the various avenues and routes of this sprawled complex, you will reach the fort roof, overlooking the entire city of Jodhpur, from over rows of medieval cannons. What a commanding view! The thousands of white houses chequered with ones painted blue.

History of Mehrangarh Fort

Mehrangarh means ‘Fort of the sun’. The fort is perched on a rocky cliff called ‘Bhakur-chiria’ which means ‘mountain of birds’. The construction of the fort was started by Rao Jodha in the mid-fifteenth century.

A lot of additions and alterations were made in the later centuries by the subsequent rulers too. This resulted in different styles and architecture in the various parts of the fort.

Museum inside Mehrangarh Fort exhibits various items like palanquins, textiles, paintings, decorative arts and furniture etc that were used by the royal family during the 17th, 18th and 19th century.

Most of these items are a part of Maharaja Gaj Singh II’s personal collection. Maharaja Gaj Singh II is the current head of the Rathore clan and the custodian of the A Travel Guide To Mehrangarh Fort.

Architecture of Mehrangarh Fort

Mehrangarh fort is a magnificent edifice of 68-ft wide and 117-ft elevated walls.

There are seven gates of entry to the fort. The most famous among them is the Jaya Pol meaning victory, constructed by Maharaja Man Singh to celebrate his success over the armies of Jaipur and Bikaner. Fatteh Pol, which also means victory gate, was raised by Maharaja Ajit Singh to celebrate the defeat of the Mughals. Dedh Kamgra Pol, still bear the mutilations of cannonballs. Loha Pol, another gate to the fort have the handprints (sati marks) of the ranis who immolated themselves on the funeral pyre of their husband, Maharaja Man Singh, A Travel Guide To Mehrangarh Fort.

Impressive cenotaphs dot the fort which testify the valor of the Rathore kings of Jodhpur. The chhatri of Kirat Singh Soda, the honorable soldier who died guarding the fort against the Amber armies is a wonderful specimen.

The brilliant craftsmanship is exhibited by the fascinating sandstone palaces within the Fort. Explore the grand palaces like the Moti Mahal or the Pearl Palace, where you can marvel at the royal throne of Jodhpur known as the Sringar Chowki. The Phool Mahal has a beautiful ceiling adorned by gold filigree work. The Umaid Villas showcase beautiful Rajput miniature paintings while the Ajit Villas displays the musical instruments and the royal attires. The Rang Mahal, Chandan Mahal and Maan Vilas are exquisite splendors.

The fort also encloses the Mehrangarh Fort Museum. It has all exhibits of the olden days, like the royal palanquins, miniature paintings, furniture, and historic armory etc.

Interesting Facts of Mehrangarh Fort Jodhpur

  • According to a popular folklore, it is believed that, to develop the Mehrangarh Fort, the Rao Jodha displaced a hermit called Cheeria Nathji (The lord of birds), who was the hill’s lone human occupant, Being angry upon this forced displacement, Cheeria Nathji cursed Rao Jodha that his kingdom will suffer from serious scarcity of water and even today the area is plagued by a drought every 3 to 4 years.
  • In order to ensure fortunate of the Fort, Rao Jodha buried a man called “Raja Ram Meghwal” alive in the foundations and promised him that his family will be taken good care of, in return of this sacrifice. Even today, his descendants live in the fort, in an estate named after the Raja Ram Meghwal, “Raj Bagh” A Travel Guide To Mehrangarh Fort.

Best Time to Visit the Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur

The ideal time to visit this royal splendor is throughout the winters. During October to March, the weather is pleasurable and it is the best time to explore this stunning fort. If you see visit during this period, you can also belong of the international events that happen right here. Scroll to read more about them!

How To Reach Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur

You can fly to Jodhpur to explore this stunning fort. Jodhpur has its own domestic airport and is connected through flights to major cities of India. Jodhpur is also attached to different cities via a variety of trains including the lavish ‘Palace on Wheels’. One can also take the government or private buses or travel by road in hired or private cars.

Once in Jodhpur, reaching to Mehrangarh is a easy task. You can work with auto rickshaws or take a taxi to the fort since that the frequency of city buses is not really high in Jodhpur. If you remain in old town, the fort is a plain 2 km away and also around 10 km from the city centre A Travel Guide To Mehrangarh Fort.

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Top 10 Unique Travel Experiences in Rajasthan

Top 10 Unique Travel Experiences in Rajasthan is a land of wonders, and it provides you with a plethora of entertainment options. Rajasthan has the reputation of being a land of palaces, forts, and dancing ladies, but this state has much more to offer than these gifted tourist attractions, and there are many sides to Rajasthan that will not only astonish you, but will also provide you with an unparalleled experience of the land.

The region offers many magnificent locations in all of its areas, including small districts and even villages, where you may see many unusual and unique Experiences items seen nowhere else in the globe. Rajasthan is a lovely place to visit and find many beautiful and strange things, and one can explore a large area to do so.

It is not only because the state belonged to the royals and the culture of the state flashes the glimpses of those royalties at every stage, but the people of this state are very religious and they believe in many things and happening which are traditionally related to faith and they stand still high till date Top 10 Unique Travel Experiences in Rajasthan.

Cherish a rickshaw ride in Jaipur

The Pink City Rickshaw is a one-of-a-kind innovative initiative of ACCESS Development Services, a non-profit organisation, that intends to empower 200 women from low-income families in Jaipur with a new aspirational career opportunity. They have enlisted as equity holders in the Pink City Rickshaw., which they now proudly own and manage, because they are skilled to ply custom developed e-rickshaws.

These one-of-a-kind, eco-friendly rickshaws, driven by smart, enthusiastic, and well-trained ladies, will transport you through the mediaeval mysticism of the walled city. The well-planned tours of Jaipur’s major tourist destinations and new circuits provide you the best views, an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, and an experience unlike any other Top 10 Unique Travel Experiences in Rajasthan.

While giving these underprivileged women with employment opportunities, the project also advocates for a more environmentally friendly mode of transportation to combat the country’s rising pollution levels. Welcome aboard this innovation on wheels as you discover the wonders of Jaipur’s heritage city.

Experience the Camel Safari in Jaisalmer

Rajasthan is known for its sandy terrains and deserts, and no trip to the state would be complete without a camel safari in the desert. The greatest way to travel through Rajasthan’s golden dunes is on a camel safari. It’s the most efficient way to travel the length and breadth of this barren land. A camel safari tour in Rajasthan is one of the most popular tours in the state It brings you through the Thar Desert to Osian, where you may learn about the country’s cultural heritage. In Jaisalmer and Jodhpur, the majority of visitors take a camel ride to experience the real life of a desert resident. This has to be one of life’s most remarkable events.

Jaisalmer Desert Camp

Due to the extensive deserts, Jaisalmer is renowned as the “Golden City,” and camping among the golden dunes is an unforgettable experience. Rajasthan desert safari tour offers you to camp in this golden region beneath the night sky, which is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you should not miss. In Jaisalmer, there are numerous finest desert camps that offer all of the amenities which will make you comfortable. You will be able to see Rajasthan’s exotic culture and traditions here. Folk performances, a bonfire, and live party music will be part of this exciting activity. Prepare to explore the desert on your way to this Jaisalmer desert camping adventure Top 10 Unique Travel Experiences in Rajasthan.

Learn the art of puppet making in Rajasthan

The brilliant and colourful Indian puppets are also known as Kathputli, where kath means wood and putli means doll, and are thought to have originated before the 5th BC. Beautiful dolls fashioned by hand from wood and fabric and strung with strings. When puppeteers hold these wooden dolls and make them dance and execute a drama, they are utilised for entertainment. The majority of these dolls are in the form of a pair, Top 10 Unique Travel Experiences in Rajasthan.

Their apparel is similar to that of rural people, as well as kings and queens of those days. Surprisingly, if we travel to rural Rajasthan or India’s desert regions today, we can still see individuals clothed in the same way they did thousands of years ago! This form of entertainment is considered the oldest form of entertainment in the state of Rajasthan.

Boating in Udaipur

A boat ride on Lake Pichola’s calm waters is an unforgettable experience. Tickets cost roughly INR 400-600 for adults and INR 200 for youngsters and are available at the City Palace. The cost of the sunset cruise is quite costly. The boats are equipped with six to eight seats and a canopy. Wearing a life jacket is required. The boat ride starts at Rameshwar Ghat and it first takes you to the Lake Palace Hotel. Then, it proceeds to the Jagmandir where you can stop for some time and reminisce the scenic views. The view of the sunset during boat rides is captivating. The yellow glow of the palaces nearby with their reflection in the water seem to hypnotise.

Partake in Dune Bashing in Jaisalmer

Dune bashing is a lively pastime in Jaisalmer. Prepare to raft over the dunes at breakneck speed in a 4×4 vehicle such as a Fortuner, Toyota Land Cruiser, or Jeep Wrangler Rubicon. Uncountable sand particles will rub across the windows as the robust trucks slide down the sand. The car windows are rolled up to keep sand particles from entering the vehicle.

The burst of adrenaline Every year, dune bashing in Jaisalmer attracts a large number of adventure seekers. Dune Bashing takes place at Sam Sand Dunes, which are five kilometres long and three kilometres wide and are located 42 kilometres from Jaisalmer. You may either rent a car or a jeep to get to Sam Sand Dunes from Jaisalmer. If time is not a constraint, one can also opt for a camel ride to enjoy the true essence of the desert.

Between the months of November and February is the best time to go dune bashing in Jaisalmer. The weather remains good during this time, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 24°C. To get the most out of Dune Bashing Jaisalmer, go early in the morning (4 to 6 AM) or late in the evening (4-7 PM). Imagine rafting on the dunes at breakneck speed while enjoying the serenity of a sunrise/ sunset! It would be heavenly!

Enjoy a bird’s eye view of Rajasthan in a hot air balloon

Hot air ballooning in Rajasthan allows you to get a bird’s eye view of the royal Rajasthan from above. During the rides, you will be able to enjoy a captivating experience as you fly over a variety of palaces, forts, and lakes. This journey, which is available in the morning and evening, is one of the top things to do in Rajasthan.

You will get the opportunity to view Rajasthan from a unique perspective if you participate in a hot air balloon flight in Rajasthan. The journey will let you to glide through the skies with your loved ones, capturing the beauty of Rajasthan. If you wish to spend time riding among history sites and historical landmarks, you can do this activity in Jaipur, Pushkar if you wish to move over rural fields of Rajasthan, and Jodhpur if you wish to get mesmerised by the majestic forts and palaces. You will truly fall in love with the views and get some unforgettable experiences with your loved ones.

Go Zip-Lining in Rajasthan

Ziplining is an adventure activity in which a person uses a freely moving pulley and a harness to glide down a cable that stretches between two sites of various heights. A zip line is a pulley strung from a cable, usually constructed of stainless steel. The cable is usually slope, allowing the user to go with the assistance of gravity.

If one likes to have adventures where they get an aerial view of the scenic beauty of the surroundings, ziplining is something they can consider. It gives one an adrenaline boost with a very picturesque overhead view of magnificent locations. Ziplining is a trending adventure sport and keeping up with the pace, Rajasthan has many places that offer its tourists the opportunity to experience the sport.

Match your steps with the traditional dance form – Kalbelia

The Kalbelia, also known as Kalbeliya or Karberia, is a Rajasthani dance genre named for a Rajasthani tribe of the same name. Swirling, beautiful gestures characterise this dance genre, making it a visual delight. The sensual motions associated with the Kalbelia make it one of India’s most sensual folk dances. The Kalbelia dance is generally performed for any joyous celebration and is considered to be an integral part of the Kalbelia culture. Another unique aspect of the Kalbelia dance is that it is only performed by women while the men play the instruments and provide the music.

During the performance, the women sway, twirl and gyrate to the music and use acrobatic dance steps which showcase the dancers’ flexibility and litheness. As the performance goes on, the tempo of the Kalbelia dance increases and so does the pace of the dance steps. Due to the demanding nature of the dance, the performance is usually carried out in pairs with at least two pairs who swap stage-presence seamlessly. This lets the one half of the group catch their breath while at the same time not letting the pace of the dance slow down.

Discover mini-Rajasthan at Chokhi Dhani in Jaipur

The ethnic hamlet resort of Chokhi Dhani in Jaipur is one of the best spots for a family vacation. Enjoy Rajasthani village-themed hospitality and make your vacation one to remember. It is one of the best spots to visit in Jaipur if you want to experience Rajasthani hospitality and culture. They portray themselves as promoters and stewards of the historic heritage of hospitality, Rajasthani culture is introduced through the Jaipur Chokhi Dhani Group. Get a taste of the royal state, but with a twist.

The deluxe heritage resort, which is equipped with the newest amenities, will entertain you with singing, camel rides, Rajasthan puppet shows, magic acts, folk dances, and much more. You can see all of the state’s noteworthy highlights in one spot. Dhani Chokhi The cost of living in Jaipur is relatively low, and it is one of those places where one may satisfy one’s hunger and experience the delectable delicacies of Rajasthan.

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Royal Manas National Park

Royal Manas National Park is located in Bhutan’s southern region, close east of the country’s border with India. The park has a total area of 408 square miles (1,057 square kilometres), making it the country’s fourth largest national park.

Royal Manas is Bhutan’s oldest protected area and is lovingly known as the Kingdom’s Conservation Showpiece. The park borders Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park, Phrumshingla National Park (previously Thrumshingla), and Royal Manas National Park in India, all of which are working together to safeguard the region’s wildness and wildlife.

There are a variety of habitats in the national park, including cold broadleaved woods, Warm broadleaved woods, lowland tropical forests, subtropical forests, and tropical monsoon forests are all examples of tropical monsoon forests. The Manas River, which runs through the park, is the inspiration for the park’s name.

The streams that flow into the river from the highlands form deep riverbeds and adjacent grasslands, as well as abundant vegetation. The greenery provides habitat for a diverse range of species. The park’s topography is covered in woods, which include 348 different types of large trees.

The national park is home to its own version of the “Big 5,” which is typically associated with Africa. The Bengal tiger, Indian rhinoceros, Asian elephant, and clouded leopard are among Bhutan’s Big 5, and Asiatic water buffalo or the gaur. Leopards, civets, pygmy hogs, golden langurs, and a variety of other animals make up the rest of the biodiversity.

Over 425 kinds of birds breed and migrate inside the park’s boundaries, making it a birdwatcher‘s paradise. There are approximately 10,000 bug species, which you may or may not be interested in learning about. The Ganges river dolphin and a variety of fish can be found in the river.

Royal Manas National Park

Things to Do at the Royal Manas National Park

There are many activities you can engage in while at the Royal Manas National Park. Some of them are:

  • Birdwatching: There are many distinct bird species at the Royal Manas National Park, including the Rufous-Necked Hornbill, Wreathed Hornbill, Pied Hornbill, Great Indian Hornbill, Pigeons, Swifts, Bustards and so on.
  • Mountain Biking: Mountain Biking is a famed activity not just at the Royal Manas National Park, but throughout Bhutan due to its terrain.
  • Take a Hot Stone Bath: Hot Stone Baths are one of the unique and popular activities of Bhutan. The medicinal and recreational properties of these baths are numerous, relaxing your body and mind to a new level.
  • Experiencing Bhutanese Culture: The Royal Manas National Park is home to many Bhutanese Villages, as it spans across three Dzongkhags. You can visit one of the many villages present in the accessible areas, experience the culture here, and if you’re lucky, attend a local festival too!
  • Camping: The beautiful surroundings of the Royal Manas National Park make it a prime site for camping. There are certain areas that the Royal Government of Bhutan allows camping in.
Royal Manas National Park

Flora and Fauna at the Royal Manas National Park

  • A haven for animals, birds and plants, Royal Manas National Park houses distinct varieties of wildlife and plant species within its boundaries, including some rare endangered species.
  • 558 species of flora, 65 species of mammals, 489 species of birds, 60 species of fishes and more than 180 species of butterfly are the recorded number of species that are found here.
  • Royal Bengal tiger, golden langur, clouded leopard, Asian elephant, Asiatic water buffalo, dhole and Asiatic gaur etc. are the various mammal species found here. Endemic and globally threatened species such as Golden Langur and Pygmy Hog can be spotted in the national park.
    In fact, out of the 65 mammal species, 2 are critically endangered, 8 endangered, 9 species are almost threatened and 11 others come under vulnerable list.
  • The presence of such diversity and richness accounts for its immense popularity of the Royal Manas National Park all across the globe. The national park also holds the honour of housing about 70% of the country’s birds population within its boundaries.
  • Three of them, i.e White-bellied Heron, White-rumped Vulture and Red-headed Vulture, come under the category of Critically Endangered Species. Many other species come under near threatened and vulnerable species as well.
Royal Manas National Park

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit this park is during the winter months of November through February to sight the migratory birds and endemic animals. Nevertheless, the park is open throughout the year and sighting the animals is subject to luck and guidance of the park authority.

November through February, the Royal Manas National Park weather remains pleasant. The climatic variations are quite common although minimal rainfall is seen during the winter season. Around 5,000 mm rainfall is witnessed every year during May through September.

How to reach?

By Air – Nearest airport is Guwahati airport, about 170 Km from the Manas National Park. Guwahati airport is well connected by road to Royal Manas National Park.

By Rail – Nearest railway station is Barpeta railway station, about 50 Km from the Manas National Park. Barpeta railway station is well connected by road to Manas National Park.

By Road – Manas National Park is well connected to Major Cities and Places by road network. There are a number of government and privately operated vehicles that go to Royal Manas National Park at frequent intervals.

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Lake Palace Udaipur

Lake Palace Udaipur is one of the most romantic destinations on the planet. The Palace, which is set within the picturesque Pichola Lake, provides visitors with a breathtaking vista. On one side, the majestic Aravalli Hills and on the other, soaring palaces provide the perfect backdrop for this lovely Lake Palace. Maharana Jai Singh II built Lake Palace in 1746, which is made of white marble. The spectacular Palace spreads across a four-acre island, giving the sense of being in a dream.

The Palace was once known as Jag Niwas, after the Maharana’s name. Lake Palace is the name by which it is known nowadays. Jag Niwas was built with the intention of providing a summer retreat for Udaipur‘s nobility. In the later years, the Palace was used as the summer resort by the descendants of Jagat Singh. The amazing exteriors would make you crave to peep once inside the beautiful Lake Palace. On entering this astonishing Palace, you would feel that you are in the seventh heaven to find everything just perfect.

The wonderful architecture of the Lake Palace Udaipur will send shivers down your spine. Lake Palace has a series of courtyards that are aligned with numerous columns, terraces, beautiful fountains and well laid gardens. Lake Palace also comprises several rooms by the name of Bada Mahal, Khush Mahal, Ajjan Niwas, Phool Mahal and Dhola Mahal that add to the beauty of graceful palace. These exotic rooms are decked with carved arches, paintings, crystal work, stained glass work, inland stones of pink and green lotus leaves.

In the last few years, this palace has been transformed into a hotel that is managed by Taj Group of Hotels. This five-star hotel provides world-class amenities with immaculate hospitality to its guests. However, you can visit this palace without any hitch. The beauty of this breathtaking Palace cannot be bounded in words. Simply, a glimpse of this Palace will enthrall you by its charm. It is the perfect place to lighten up and feel relaxed with the serene view of tranquil waters of Lake Pichola. So, pack your bags to visit this superb romantic palace of the World.

History and Legend

Lake palace Udaipur was constructed under the supervision of Maharana Jagat Singh II who was the 62nd ruler of the dynasty of Mewar. Settled amidst the Lake, the palace was like a pleasure spot for him.

Formerly, the palace was popular as Jag Niwas, named after the Maharana’s name. History of the palace is related to the time when Jagat Singh II used to spend leisure time on the Lake Palace of Jag Mandir. Later, he built his own palace on the Lake Pichola. The palace was one among the other four spectacular islands on the lake namely Mohan Mandir, Arsivilas and Jag Mandir. It took three years to build this palace from 1743-1746, Lake Palace Udaipur.

Later in 1963, the palace was altered into a luxurious and romantic hotel by Maharana Bhagwat Singh. In 1971, Lake Palace hotel was tied with chains of Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces in order to maintain the royal tradition of hospitality.

Architecture

Lake Palace Udaipur is a masterpiece of brilliant architecture that showcases striking white marble building with notable courtyards, terraces, gardens and fountains. The conversion from palace to hotel was originally commissioned by Bhagwat Singh and was designed under the direction of an American artist, Didi contractor.

Now transformed into a luxury hotel, the palace has various rooms that are notified as Ajjan Niwas, Phool Mahal, Dhola Mahal, Khush Mahal and Bada Mahal. All the rooms are exquisitely designed with crystal artworks and stained glass works. There are also wonderful paintings which date back to the ancient era, Lake Palace Udaipur.

Entry fees and timings of Taj Lake Palace

There is no entry fee charged for entering the Lake Palace Udaipur. However, it is a resident only hotel equipped with all the necessary as well as luxurious facilities at the disposal of their guests.

According to hotel policies, the Check-in begins from 2 PM, and check-out service is available till 12:00 PM.

Things to do at Taj Lake Palace

It is hard to take off your eyes from the stunning beauty of the Taj Lake Palace Udaipur. However, there are some of the awesome things to do at the Taj Lake Palace listed below.

  1. Stroll around to learn and explore- There is a team of experienced historians offering an insightful session narrating the rich traditional anecdotes of prince and princesses and a variety of stories associated with the Lake Palace Udaipur.
  2. Make a spa appointment at Jiva Spa- Have you ever had a spa experience while boating? Well, if not then get ready for an exciting experience provided at Jiva Spa. You can take advantage of traditional spa therapies while floating on the calm waters of Lake Pichola.
  3. You can also attend on-site yoga sessions available here.
  4. To offer you an entirely local experience, there are tourist guides conducting astrology sessions and cultural shows.

Best time to visit Taj Lake Palace

The best days to visit the Taj Lake Palace are between July and October. The weather is quite pleasant in Udaipur during these months.

How to reach Taj Lake Palace

Udaipur is connected via National Highway (NH8), making it an easily accessible destination. If you wish to take a road trip from Delhi or Mumbai, NH8 is a boon for you Lake Palace Udaipur.

Airport- The Maharana Pratap Airport is situated 26 km away from the Taj Lake Palace. It will take around 40 minutes to reach Taj Lake Palace. The guests can take a private cab or taxi service to ease out the shuttle to and from the airport.

Railway Station- The Udaipur Railway Station is located 4 km away from the Taj Lake Palace. You can take local transport available nearby to commute to and from the Taj Lake Palace.

Public Transport- You can take a government-run bus to reach Udaipur. The Transport Corporation of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh run AC and Non- AC buses at a regular interval of time. The Udaipur City Centre is just 1 km away from the Taj Lake Palace. You can take an auto-rickshaw or a private cab to reach your destination.

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Top Things To Do In Khajuraho

Top Things To Do In Khajuraho is a city in India. If you’re looking for a vacation spot that will fill your heart and soul, Khajuraho is the place to go. This popular tourist destination is known for the Khajuraho Group of Temples, the Khajuraho Dance Festival, and yoga activities.

It is not only a visual treat, but each visitor to this location can immerse themselves in the rich culture and traditions of the inhabitants of a bygone era. This magnificent city is situated in the Madhya Pradesh and Vindhya mountain ranges.

The main attraction of this tourist destination is temples built in the Nagara architectural style, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Every visitor to these temples is mesmerised by the spellbinding rock carvings. Choose an appealing Khajuraho package to make your trip more satisfying and joyful.

Khajuraho – A charming destination famous for erotic wall carvings

Khajuraho is a tiny Madhya Pradesh town located around 400 kilometres from Kanpur. This site is known for its sexual wall carvings, which are set against the breathtaking background of the Vidhya Mountain Ranges. Visiting this incredible location will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, as it provides guests with several breathtaking vistas.

Top Things To Do In Khajuraho main appeal is its sacred temples, which were built by the Chandela dynasty’s emperors. Because of the sensual sculptures, these temples are often known as Kamasutra temples, even though such art accounts for just 10% of the total. The Khajuraho Dance Festival and superb Yoga sessions are equally popular in this destination.

Kandariya Mahadeva Temple :

One of the most magnificent temples in Khajuraho, the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and exhibits more than 800 sculptures. Most impressive as compared to the rest of the temples, one can find a spectacular spectacle in the inner sanctum of the temple where a marble Shiva lingam is surrounded by an amazing 646 statues. It is at this temple that tourists can marvel at the beautiful architecture and erotic sculptures. The sound and light show organized at the temple in the evenings is another highlight, Top Things To Do In Khajuraho.

Timings: 6 am to 10 pm

Aaigarh Fort

The Ajaigarh Fort is a monument which does not see many visitors as very few travellers know of it. Needless to say that this beauty gets skipped way too often. History and art lovers will not be disappointed when they explore the Ajaigarh Fort.

You have to climb around 600 steps to get here but the kaleidoscopic views of the Ken river, and the Vindhya Hills make that climb absolutely worth it. There are two temples, two gates and sculptures of Gods and Goddesses inside. The fort is quite deserted with no maps or food stalls. Do make sure to book a private guide in advance along with bottled water and some snacks, Top Things To Do In Khajuraho.

Visiting Hours: 06:00 to 18:00 hours

Estimated Time: 2 hours

Raneh Falls

Also known as the ‘Mini Grand Canyon’ of India, the scenic Raneh Falls is situated about 20 kms from Top Things To Do In Khajuraho. It is definitely worth a visit and we strongly recommend that you hire a guide for visiting this waterfall. You can also rent a jeep which will cost you INR 1,000-1,500.

The waterfall is situated on the crater of a dead volcano. You will notice that the crater consists of 5 different types of rocks. Waking up early to experience the picturesque Raneh Falls is definitely worth it. For photo fanatics this place is a paradise. There is also a small museum here which displays information of all the animals found in the area.

Visiting Hours: 08:00 to 17:00 hours

Estimated Time: 1-1.5 hours

Panna Tiger Reserve

From the list of things to do in Khajuraho, The Panna Tiger Reserve would soar high up for most travellers. In very close proximity to the beautiful Raneh Falls, it is home to many species like the Indian wolf, four-horned antelope, rusty spotted cat, leopard and of course, tigers.

Vehicles will be allowed inside the Reserve, however there will be a charge which will be specified at the booking counter. Note: The Reserve is shut from July to September, as it is the mating period for the animals.

Visiting Hours: 05:30 to 09:00 hours and 16:00 to 19:00 hours (March to June) & 06:00 to 09:30 hours and 14:30 to 17:30 hours (October to February)

Best time to visit Khajuraho

The best time to visit Khajuraho would be from October to February when the weather there is extremely pleasant and sometimes quite cold. Also it is the best time to catch the special attraction and much-awaited event of the Khajuraho Dance Festival which takes place in February every year.

How to Reach Khajuraho :

By air – Khajuraho has its own domestic airport which has regular flights to many other Indian cities.

By train – The Khajuraho railway station has limited connectivity to a few other cities only. But the railway station at Mahoba Junction has a good rail network with many other cities across the country.

By Bus – Bus services are available from several other cities to Khajuraho.

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Nahargarh Biological Park, Jaipur

Nahargarh Biological Park, a part of the Nahargarh sanctuary is located about 12 km from Jaipur on the Jaipur-Delhi highway. It encompasses a large area of 720 hectares and is situated under the Aravalli range. The Park is famous for its vast flora and fauna, and its main aim is to conserve it. It also doubles up as a great place to educate people and conduct research on existing flora and fauna. At Nahargarh Biological Park, ornithologists can expect to see over 285 species of birds, of which, the most popular is the white-naped tit, which can only be found here.

When you visit the Park, make sure you also head to Ram Sagar, which is a famous among bird watchers and makes for a great spot to catch different varieties of birds. While here, you can stay at well-equipped and famous places such as Ganga Vilas, Gopal Vilas and Lalit Vilas, which were famous with the maharajas of the yore as hunting lodges. The Nahargarh Zoological Park is also worth a visit and houses animals such as Asiatic lions, Bengal tigers, panthers, hyenas, wolves, deer, crocodiles, sloth bear, Himalayan black bear, wild boar, etc.

Nahargarh Biological Park Jaipur Day Out Highlights

  • Head for an exciting jeep safari to Nahargarh Biological Park where you can enjoy your time with friends and family.
  • Around 250 species of birds, animals, reptiles, insects can be found here and you get a chance to witness them here.
  • An experienced and local driver will be in-charge of the vehicle so you got nothing to worry about.
  • A lovely day out with friends and family is a wonderful way to get out of the daily life rut.
  • You can also get a chance to witness the royal lions and tigers in this day out!

Nahargarh Biological Park Timings

The Exotic Park in Jaipur will remain open from 8:30 AM in the morning till 5:30 PM in the evening.

Lion Safari timing will be limited to 9:00 AM in the morning to 5:00 PM in the evening.

It will be open throughout the week except for Tuesday. Festival days may affect the timings. Approx. 6-7 hours required to watch all the attractions in the park.

Nahargarh Biological Park Entry Fees

Entry is free for Child below 7 years. If you are a student, carry a valid ID with you, the entry fee for students is INR 30. Otherwise, the charges for Indian National is INR 50 and Foreign National is INR 200

There is a 2 km distance between the ticket counter and the entry gate of the park, so either you can walk 2 km or you have to pay INR 300 for a car, INR 40-50 for a bike. The bus fare may cost you INR 500. While Auto rickshaw parking costs INR 60. If you prefer to walk the parking costs for the car 2 km away from the park entrance will be INR 30.

Camera charges for clicking pictures are INR 200 per camera for Indians and INR 500 for Foreigners. If you are using a video camera, the charges will be INR 500 per camera for Indians and INR 1000 per camera for Foreigners.

Best time to visit Nahargarh Biological Park

The best time to visit Nahargarh Exotic Park is from the month of October to the month of March. Try to avoid visiting in the afternoon during the summer.

Places To Visit Near Nahargarh Biological Park

Other than Nahargarh biological park, Jaipur itself is known as the pink city of India with multiple tourist attractions. One of these is ‘Jal mahal’ meaning ‘water palace’.

With just at 10 km from the park this is a palace which is situated at the middle of Man sagar lake in Jaipur city providing a serene sight in between of a very busy city.

Another great spot to be is just 14 km away from the park, known as ‘Hawa Mahal’. Built in 1799 under the orders of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, the palace is made by sandstone with a honeycomb structure having 953 windows.

The aerodynamics of this place creates a breeze to flow through the palace. Other greats spots nearby include Amber fort, textile industries and Sheesh mahal.

How to Reach Nahargarh Biological Park

By Road: It is located around 23 kilometers from the iconic Ajmeri Gate. A good number of taxis & public transport are available from Jaipur city center to reach here. If you are having your own vehicle then you just need to join NH 8 and go straight towards Delhi.

By Railway: Jaipur railway station is the nearest railway station and it is situated around the distance of 21 kilometers from the Nahargarh Biological Park.

By Air: Jaipur International Airport is the nearest airport and it is 29 kilometers away from this zoological garden.

There are two ways to explore the exotic park, the electric vehicle Safari or the Elephant Safari. Electronic Vehicle Charges INR 15 per person and charges for Elephant Safari are

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Kathputli Dance Rajasthan

Kathputli Dance Rajasthan are a type of puppets. Rajasthan is famous for its puppet-playing tradition. String puppets or Kathputli dance in Rajasthan is an old tradition. In this dance the puppeteer uses balladsto narrate the stories. These storied or tales of romance and chivalry are told with movements of string puppets. In olden days, puppeteers used to travel from place to place through various villages to entertain people. Through puppets, the puppeteer tells the stories of legendary heroes or historic events are narrated through it.

Different types of puppets or Kathputlis are used for popular puppet shows that include Glove Puppets, String Puppets, Rod Puppets and Shadow Puppets. Puppetry or Kathputli Dance Rajasthan holds an important place in traditional entertainment of people. Stories from mythology and legends are told through puppets in Rajasthan. So, with entertainment they spread awareness among the citizens.

What is Kathputli Dance?

Rajasthan Kathputli dance is world famous and well known as Puppetry dance. It is the old tradition of stories from mythology and legends are told through puppets in Rajasthan. String puppetry is very much famous in Rajasthan. Tradition of Kathputli Dance Rajasthan is based on folk tales and stories. Scholars believe that folk tales convey the lifestyle of ancient Rajasthani tribal people and Kathputli art might have originated from present day Nagaur and surrounding areas.

History of Kathputli Dance

According to historians, this art form of Rajasthan is more than thousands years old. It is believed that around 1500 years ago, the Bhat community of Rajasthan started the use of Kathputli as string marionette art. The tradition of Kathputli Dance Rajasthan is based on various folk tales and stories. The scholars are of the opinion that folk tales convey the lifestyle of ancient Rajasthani tribal people and Kathputli art might have originated from present day Nagaur and surrounding areas.

It is said that the Kings and nobles of Kathputli Dance Rajasthan were admirer of Art and Craft. They encouraged and supported the craftsmen in activities ranging from wood and marble carving to weaving, pottery and painting. They would look after the artists and craftsmen in return for the artists singing praises of the patrons’ ancestors.

Performance of Kathputli Dance

Kathputli Dance Rajasthan, For a performance, a small stage is set where puppeteers show puppetry and narrate the story. In the performance, music or ballad plays an important role as the entire performance is based upon the ballad. Sometimes, the puppeteer makes use of various sound effects to achieve the reality impact and give a quality entertainment. The puppeteer shows all his skills to make puppets dance to his tunes. The Kathputli Dance Rajasthan are fixed on stage; in fact they are strung on the stage for the performance. It recounts historic anecdotes, replay tales of love, and include much screeching and high-pitched sound as the puppet twirl and move frenetically at the time of performance.

In olden days, the puppeteers used to travel from place to place through various villages to entertain people. Through puppets, the puppeteer narrated the stories of legendary heroes or historic events. Thus, along with the entertainment they also used to spread awareness among the citizens. Different types of puppets or Kathputlis are used for popular puppet shows that include Glove Puppets, String Puppets, Rod Puppets and Shadow Puppets.

Performance Kathputli Dance

Kathputli Dance Rajasthan is performed during fairs and festive occasions. For a performance, a small stage is set where the puppeteers would show puppetry and narrate the stories. Music or ballads form an integral part of Kathputli Rajasthan as the entire performance is based on the ballad. Sometimes, the puppeteer accompanies the ballads with various sound effects to give the show a greater impact.

These Puppet dances are based on well-known legends and are performed by skillful puppeteers. Displaying his skill in making the puppets’ act and dance, the puppeteer is accompanied by a woman, usually his wife, who plays the dholak, or drum and sings the narrative song. For the performance, a small stage is set where puppeteers show puppetry and narrate the story. During Kathputli dance, tales of romance and courage are told with movements of string puppets.

In the performance, music or narrative song plays a vital role as the whole presentation is based upon the narrative song. Sometimes, the puppeteer makes use of a variety of sound effects to accomplish the reality impact and to give a quality entertainment. The puppeteer shows all his skills and talent to make puppets dance on his tunes. It recounts historic stories, replay tales of love, and include high-pitched sound as the Kathputli Dance Rajasthan twirl and move excitedly at the time of performance. .

In ancient days, puppeteers were known to travel across vast regions through a variety of villages in order to amuse people The puppet shows also tackle some problems like the poverty, unemployment, illiteracy, dowry system, women’s empowerment, and cleanliness. Thus these shows used to spread awareness about the social problems and the ways to overcome them.

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Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace

Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace, also known as the Sajjan Garh Palace, is a hilltop palatial residence in the city of Udaipur, Rajasthan in India, overlooking the Fateh Sagar Lake. It is named Sajjangarh after Maharana Sajjan Singh (1874–1884) of the Mewar Dynasty, who built it in 1884. The palace offers a panoramic view of the city’s lakes, palaces, and surrounding countryside. It was built chiefly to watch the monsoon clouds; hence, appropriately, it is popularly known as Monsoon Palace.

It is said that the Maharana built it at the top of the hill to get a view of his ancestral home, Chittaurgarh. Previously owned by the Mewar royal family, it is now under the control of the Forest Department of the Government of Rajasthan and has recently been opened to the public. The palace provides a beautiful view of the sunset.

Maharana Sajjan Singh started the construction of the Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace Udaipur, who was the 72nd ruler of the Mewar Dynasty. The Place reflects the rich culture and history of the Mewar Kingdom. He ruled for only 10 years due to his untimely death. But it was under his reign that Udaipur gained recognition as the second Municipality in India. He was a great thinker and developer and have a major contribution to developing Udaipur City.

History of Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace

Maharana Sajjan Singh was the 72nd ruler of the Mewar dynasty. In addition, he undertook many projects of civil work like road, dam constructions, water supply & other developments in infrastructure. Later on, he took a project to build an astronomical observatory which is the Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace. Unfortunately, he passed away before he could complete the Sajjangrah Monsoon Palace. Later on, his successor Fateh Singh completed its construction keeping a palatial hunting lodge in mind.

Architecture of Sajjangarh Fort

The palace possesses a very grand court in its center that consists of various rooms and even a staircase. The court also comprises a very huge statuette of Maharana Pratap made out of bronze. Apart from this, the Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace also consists of domes, fountains, Jharokhas, marble pillars engraved with floral carvings that reflect the vibrant architecture, culture and art of Rajasthan and even the royal quarters that have been further divided into Zanana Mahal (rooms for women) and Mardana Mahal (rooms for men).

The fort also comprises the Diwan-e-Khaas (hall meant for audiences that were private) and the Diwan-e-Aam (hall meant for general public). Lime mortar has been used for the plaster of the fort walls. There are tall turrets within the fort that are regulated by guards and they are visible even from a very long distance.

During the evening, the fort is illuminated and the view of the fort is very similar to fairytale castle floating in the night sky. There is a museum located in the ground floor of the beautiful palace that consists of paintings, maps of the palace, designs of the beautiful palace and even pictures of different kinds. The place also comprises an original system for rainwater collection which has the capability to store 195,500 liters of water. This water reservoir served to be very useful and the idea was also very innovative because of the dry desert environment of Udaipur. Boat ride across Lake Pichola renders a mesmerizing sight of the grand palace located at Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace.

On the flipside, the great palace one would get the stunning sight of the valley that is covered with thick and dense forest along with lush greenery. The place is not found to be commercialized as there are no vendors and no shops found in and around the fort. This makes the fort and the entire area surrounding the fort very peaceful, calm and quite. The palace also possesses a restaurant that remains under the supervision and is also owned by The Lalit Groups.

The restaurant provides breakfast, lunch, coffee and tea to the tourists who visit the fort. The Sajjangarh Fort Udaipur is considered to be the best sightseeing spot of Udaipur and this is the reason why it is very popular as a tourist destination in the city. Rs. 10 is the entry fee for the Indians into the fort and for foreigners it is Rs.80. Students can enter the fort with a nominal entry fee of just Rs.2. However, it is very sad that the fort is not being maintained by the Government of Rajasthan is an appropriate manner.

The interiors of the fort have been ruined and the fort walls have also got damaged. The authorities who have the responsibility of maintaining the fort should take useful measures in improving the Palace condition because of its importance as a tourist destination in Udaipur.

Entry fees and timings of Sajjangarh Fort

The Entry Fee of Monsoon Palace is Rs. 10 for Indians and Rs. 80 for foreigners.

The Timings to visit Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace is from 8 am to 6 pm. It is open on all days of the week.

Best Time to Visit Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace

As the name suggests, Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace is best visited during the monsoon to fully capture its magnificence. It would be a good idea to avoid visiting Monsoon palace during summer time as the temperatures can rise up to 40 degree celsius. Winters are a good time to visit too but you may miss the reason as to why the palace earned this pseudonym.

How to reach Sajjangarh Palace

The City of Lakes, Udaipur, is very well connected. There is an airport, railway station and a national highway connecting it to all nearby cities and states. You can reach Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace via multiple ways mentioned below.

Airways- Dapok airport of Udaipur is about 27.4 Km away and can be easily reached by domestic flights from Mumbai, Kolkata, Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Ahmedabad.

Railways- You can take a direct train to Udaipur from various places such as Mumbai, Agra, Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Chennai, and Ahmedabad. Udaipur railway station is 7.9 Km from Sajjangarh Fort.

Roadways- The Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace is 10km away from central Udaipur City. You can take a local cab, auto-rickshaw or a bus run by the government to reach the destination.

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Vintage Car Museum Udaipur

Vintage Car Museum Udaipur is the Vintage & Classic Car Collection of the Maharanas of Udaipur, past and present. The pick of the Collection are the four Rolls Royce’s of which one has won awards while another was used in the James Bond classic Octopussy. Other classics such as a Cadillac Convertible has been used by dignitaries on their visit to Udaipur.

Being car enthusiasts, we didn’t miss the opportunity to visit the Vintage Car Museum Udaipur while in town. The Vintage & Classic Car Collection has been a popular attraction in the city of Udaipur ever since it was inaugurated in 2000. The grand limousines and cars showcased in the Collection belong to the Maharanas of Mewar both past and present. Despite some vehicles being over seventy years old, each one has been painstakingly restored so that they are still in perfect working condition. The Collection has been curated for the benefit of vintage car lovers from India and all over the world.

History of the Vintage Car Museum, Udaipur

Owned by the Rana Shri Arvind Singh Ji Mewar, the Vintage Car museum Udaipur is not very old. Inaugurated by Lord Montagu of Beaulieu on the 15th February of the year 2000, this museum is the official property of the HRH group. Home to more than 20 vintage cars, it includes 4 antique Rolls Royce cars, 1939, Cadillacs, rare models of Mercedes and many other vehicles. Exhibited in the Garage of the Mewar state motor garage, this is now a museum.

This Vintage Car Museum Udaipur will surely blow your minds. Vehicles dating back to 1900s are all in their top quality. There is also a shallow petrol pump in this property which is quite unstable now. So, you will certainly get to know much more about this heritage site once you actually visit this site. You will literally be spellbound to see so many antique cars in one place and you will just be stunned.

Unique feature of the Vintage Classic Cars Museum

  • The museum boasts of a great collection of classic cars more than 70 years old.
  • Some of the most well-recognized beauties include the infamously regal Rolls Royce Phantom, Cadillac, Austin, Morais, Chevalate and more.
  • All these cars are maintained to perfect working conditions.
  • These rides have belonged to the royal lineage for decades and are still the property of the presiding Maharana.
  • The cars will be a natural inheritance to the former Maharanas of the royal house .
  • While previously these cars were bought as the kings’ own luxury rides, but presently the royals do not indulge in their safaris
  • The guests at the Garden Hotel can have the unique advantage of cruising aboard one of these luxury cars as an aristocratic safari.
  • Many of the newest cars to the collection were later made as a collectible and not as a ride person

Entry fees and timings of Vintage Car Museum

The Vintage Car Museum Udaipur opens at 9 AM and closes at 9 PM.

The price of the ticket is Rs. 250 for adults and Rs. 150 for children.

Best time to visit the Vintage Car Museum

There is no fixed time to visit any museum; museums are always a protected treasure of knowledge.So, the best time to explore and indulge in knowledgeable facts stored in the Vintage Car Museum Udaipur is between October and March.

Nearby Attractions

  • The Lake Palace (Jagniwas) is located close by and is a popular tourist destination in Udaipur.
  • The City Palace is situated on the eastern banks of Lake Pichola, along with the Lake Garden Palace on one of the islands in the lake.
  • A boat ride on Lake Pichola is also quite a famous tourist activity in the city.
  • Saheliyon Ki Bari is a beautiful and vast garden for a retreat during the day.
  • Many of the royal palaces and monuments of Udaipur are situated quite close to the Vintage Car museum.

Udaipur’s royal background is contained in the grandiose lifestyle of the royal families of Mewar, and the Vintage Car Museum Udaipur only explains how rich and exquisite the life of the Rajput dynasty really was. This intriguing museum should certainly be one of the top places to visit when one goes to Udaipur.

How to Reach Vintage Car Museum

The Vintage and Classic Car Museum is nestled on the Lake Palace Road, which is near the popular Gulab Bagh Zoo. You can access this destination by road through a personal vehicle or public transport. Once you reach Udaipur, you must visit Udaipur Bus Depot or Udiapole to reach 1.5 km. It is situated near the mesmerizing Pichola Lake.

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Jal Mahal Jaipur

Jal Mahal Jaipur literally means the “Water Palace”, but when it was built, Maharaja Madho Singh I did not intend to use it as a palace. Instead, it was supposed to be a hunting lodge for the king and his entourage during their duck hunting trips. The palace stands in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake in Jaipur city, and is a famous spot till date for sightseeing. The Jal Mahal is designed in a classic Rajput manner, with pink sandstone in a symmetrical style.

While a lot of people come to see the Jal Mahal Jaipur from the banks of the Man Sagar Lake, not many are aware of the technology and innovative design that has gone into building this ancient palace. On the surface, the palace appears to have one floor, but actually, there are four more submerged levels to the palace as its stone walls hold back millions of litres of water, and the specially designed lime mortar prevents water seepage into the palace, something which it has been doing for more than 250 years.

For now, the palace is not open to a majority of the public, so tourists flock to the banks of the lake to gaze at this magnificent structure. In the evenings, the banks are full of street food vendors as well, and the place gets pretty crowded as people visit what is possibly the most serene spot in the hustle and bustle of the city. The light colour of the sandstone walls creates a sharp contrast with the deep blue of the lake, and one can also see some green foliage sprouting from the inner courtyards of the palace, making it one of the most photographed spots in Jal Mahal Jaipur.

Jal Mahal, Jaipur: History

Jal Mahal Jaipur, one of the top places to visit in Jaipur, doesn’t have any recorded history about who built it or when. However, it is popularly believed that Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh constructed Jal Mahal in 1799 to serve as a hunting lodge during his duck shooting trips. Some people also credit Maharaja Madho Singh I for the construction of this palace and date its origins back to the 1750s. Regardless of who built the palace, it was never meant to be used as a regular palace for living.

Later, the palace was renovated by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Amber in the 18th century. Over the years, the structure suffered subsidence due to partial seepage of lake water and waterlogging issues. After several years of deterioration and neglect, renovation works were carried out in the early part of the 21st century to restore the palace into its former glory. Though the palace and many of its features have been restored, its original terrace garden could not be salvaged. Plans are on to create a new terrace garden modeled on the rooftop garden of the famous Amer Palace in Jaipur.

Jal Mahal Architecture

Jal Mahal Jaipur stands in the middle of a lake that has a maximum depth of 15 feet and a minimum depth of 4.9 feet. It is a five-storied structure built in the Rajput style of architecture, with influences of the Mughal architectural style. While four of its stories remain under water, only the top story remains visible, giving you an impression that the palace is floating on the waters of the lake.

Jal Mahal has been constructed out of red sandstone. Four elaborate chhatris designed in octagonal shape adorn the four corners of the palace. A huge Bengal-style rectangular chhatri also exists on the roof of the palace. In its heyday, the terrace garden of Jal Mahal was decorated with arched passages.

Best Time to Visit Jal Mahal

The best time to visit Jal Mahal Jaipur is during the rainy season when the weather becomes even more pleasant. The rain imparts a great edge to the stunning look of the sandstone of this palace and makes it look extremely stunning. People especially prefer to visit this spot during October as the weather is extremely pleasant during this month.

Nearby Tourist Attractions of Jal Mahal

There are many nearby attractions near Jal Mahal that should be a must-visit in your travel list.

1. Amer Fort: Located at a drive of eight minutes from Man Sagar Lake, Amer Fort is one of the prime attractions of Jaipur. This is also known as Amber Fort, and it consists of serpentine staircases and maze-like passages that are a splendour on its own. It is clad in yellow and pink sandstone and is an architectural masterpiece that holds significant relevance in Indian history. This fort is so big that it will take around three to four hours to explore it in great detail.

2. Jaigarh Fort: Jaigarh Fort is another major tourist attraction located at a distance of a few kilometres from Amer Fort. It is perched on the hilltop of “Cheel Ka Teela” and this magnificent fort was commissioned by Sawai Jai Singh 11 to protect Amer Fort from the British rulers. It is a palatial structure surrounded by massive battlements and verdant greenery, and it is connected to Amer Fort through many subterranean passages. The fort currently houses the largest cannon on wheels that is also popularly known as Jaivana.

3. Gaitore: This is the most famous tourist attraction in Jaipur, extremely renowned for its blend of Hindu and Islamic style of architecture. Gaitore is popular for its chattris or cenotaphs which means the resting spot of the departed souls.

4. Jantar Mantar: Jantar Mantar is a renowned astronomical observatory consisting of nineteen architectural instruments and the largest stone sundial in the world. This is a UNESCO world heritage site and it stands as a structure of brilliance in the city of Jaipur. It’s extremely renowned among the visitors for its clever and smart use of geometrical patterns in the form of instruments.

5. Hawa Mahal: This is a distinctive landmark that every visitor stops by in Jaipur. Made with pink and red sandstones this beautiful palace sits on the edge of the city close to Jal Mahal Jaipur. Its beehive-like structure consists of small chhatris and carved dome-shaped pavilions to show the richness of Rajputana architecture. The most interesting aspect of this palace is that a light breeze passes through it all the time which is why it has been named as Hawa Mahal.

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