Jal Mahal Jaipur is one among the many historical monuments of the pinkcity Jaipur. , There are many historical monuments in Jaipur that date back to several centuries. One such monument is Jal Mahal. Literally meaning Water Palace, Jal Mahal is an excellent example of architectural excellence and craftsmanship
Jal Mahal is famous for its exquisite architecture the different schools of art. It is located in middle of the Man Sagar Lake and was constructed. The palace is beautifully emerges out from the middle of the waters like a pearl. It is surrounded by green hills of Aravalli range on 3 sides. One can get a mesmerizing view of Jai Mahal Palace from Nahargarh fort, thanks to its strategic location. A Dam across Darbhawati River was built to construct the Mansagar Lake.
Due to its location there was a particular point of depression where the water used to accommodate in large quantities. In 1596 AD a severe famine resulted in acute shortage in water to solve the problem, Mahraja of Amber built a dam using quartzite and earth across the valley situated at eastern side of Amagarh and Amer Hills in 17th century the construction was converted into stone masonry structure.
The erstwhile ruler of Jaipur maharaja Madho Singh had a keen inclination towards hunting and he greatly enjoyed duck hunting parties. The Mansagar Lake was the best place to find a variety of ducks and thus was the preferred hunting spot of Mahraja. And the palace was built to serve as a Lodge for the Mahraja. He used to stay there with his entourage that consisted of many royal guests of regional, national and international reputed. However, the son of Mahraja, Mahraja Madho Singh II added to the luxury and beauty of the palace in 18th century. In fact he is credited with the construction of a major part of the exterior, luxurious interiors and beautiful courtyard grounds.
So we can say the basic structure was erected by Maharaja Madho Singh while his son added beauty and glamour to the palace. The State Government has many plans of beautifying the palace to develop it as a major tourist spot with a strong character.
In earlier period the palace served as a shooting lodge for the Maharajah. It was beautifully colored with light sand colors that naturally blends with the greens of aravalli and contrasted with azure water. It is located on main Amer-Jaipur Road. The quaint architecture of Jal Mahal comprises of several schools of art and presents the excellence of craftsmanship. Complex techniques of architecture are employed in constructing of the palace.
One can see only one storey jutting out from the water but actually the building has four more levels that are submerged in the water. Considering the lack of high end sophisticated machinery and modern technology, such a construction is really an architecture feat to achieve. The strategic designing and construction of sturdy stone walls have successfully in holding back thousands of gallons of water. It is also interesting to know that for more than 2 centuries the especially designed lime mortar is used to prevent the water seepage and has succeeded in its objective for last 2 centuries. The authentic Rajput architecture is employed in the building style of Jal Mahal.