Jaipur, the Pink city will never stop surprising you in terms of its culture, art, and tradition. But besides this, there is a lot more to see in Jaipur. I am talking about beautiful nature, flora, and fauna. The Biological Park in Nahargarh is famous for conserving flora and fauna and is an attractive park to see wild animals very closely.

If you are staying in Jaipur, and wondering where to go out on the weekends or on your off workdays, then Biological Park in Nahargarh should be on your list for the half-day trip. Nature and wildlife lovers would defiantly love this small trip to the Biological Park in Nahargarh. 

What is Biological Park?

An area of land, which is declared by the government to be public property. These areas of land keep back for environmental conservation and for the conservation of species. 

Basically, the area of land and/or of water designated for providing the protection, for preserving certain biological features.

Animals here are adaptive to the environment provided, in terms of anatomy, physiology, and behavior.

About Nahargarh Biological Park?

Nahargarh Biological Park is located around 12 kilometers from Jaipur, situated under the Aravalli range, on the Delhi-Jaipur highway. Being part of Nahargarh sanctuary, it encloses a large area of around 720 hectares. 

The main aim of the Biological Park is to conserve its vast variety of flora and fauna. The park is famous for its huge variety of wildlife species, making it a great place to conduct research for learning and education purposes. 

There are around 285 species of only birds, and one of the famous among all the birds is the white-winged passerine bird, which can be found only here. 

This park is worth the visit where one can experience watching the Royal Bengal Tigers, Asiatic lions, Hyenas, Panther, Deer, Wolves, Sloth Bear, Crocodiles, Wild Boar, and many more.

You can click beautiful photographs, and enjoy quality time with your friends, family, and kids.

Majestic Tiger in Nahargarh Biological Park

How is the Construction of Nahargarh Biological Park?

The construction of this beautiful biological park is done using granite rocks and hard metamorphic rock, consisting of interlock quartz crystals. 

There is a dry and dense and tropical rainforest, where lots of animals can be spotted including tigers, lions, leopards, etc. 

The whole Biological Park is maintained by Rajasthan Government, and no doubt the government is doing a really great job in terms of maintenance and cleanliness, in order to attract tourists and visitors.

Beautiful Bird Nests in Nahargarh Biological Park

Is Jaipur zoo is shifted to Nahargarh Biological Park?

Yes, Recently The Jaipur zoo from Ramniwas Garden, near Albert Hall is shifted to Nahargarh Biological Park. This information is really helpful for the local people of Jaipur.

The construction of Nahargarh Biological Park was started from the year 2013. It took around 3 years to complete the construction. The opening ceremony was done in the year 2016, which was inaugurated by Rajasthan CM Vasundhara Raje. 

It's proud to say that, Nahargarh Biological Park is one of the leading biological parks among the Asian nations.

What are the Timing and Entry Fees of Nahargarh Biological Park?

• Every Tuesday the Park is closed. The Park timings are:

Summers - 8.30 AM to 5.30 PM & Winters - 9 AM to 5 PM 

• Entry Fees for the Biological Park:

Indian Visitor - Rs. 50/person, Indian Student - Rs. 20/person, Foreign Visitor - Rs.300/person 

• Vehicle Entry Fees for the Biological Park:

Auto rickshaw - Rs. 60, Motorbike - Rs. 30, Canter/Minibus - Rs. 300, Bus - Rs. 500 

Entry Area in Nahargarh Biological Park

How is Lion Safari At Nahargarh Biological Park?

The Lion Safari in Nahargarh Biological Park is really good one must go for a combo ticket which can include both a biological park visit and Lion Safari. 

The total forest area is around 36 hectares. They provide the covered vehicles for the Lion safari inside the forest. To ensure safety, and also to guide inside the forest, forest guides are assigned for each vehicle. 

The Lions are brought from Gujarat for the safari. Since the area is small you will definitely get the sight of lions and your safari will be worth having. 

The entry price for the Safari is - Rs. 200 per person

There is an option for the combo ticket for both Lion Safari and Biological Park. 

The combo ticket price for both Lion Safari and Biological Park is - Rs. 250 per person.

The timing for the Lion Safari is from 9AM to 4PM. 

As of now, there are four minibuses are available for the safari. You can enjoy the safari for 1 hour.

Inside the forest, there are around three water areas, water tanks, veterinary shelters, and nightshades are arranged for the lions. 

For safety purposes, there is proper fencing arranged, which is around 3KM long and 5-6 meters tall, installed around the forest area.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Nahargarh Biological Park?

The best time to visit the park is in early winter October to February. If you are visiting in summer, try to go in the mornings and not in the afternoon. The noon in summer is really hot and you will not enjoy your visit to the Park.

Sunset in Nahargarh Biological Park

How To Reach Nahargarh Biological Park?

To reach Nahargarh Biological Park, you can opt for public transport, there are dedicated buses to the Nahargarh Biological Park.

The 2nd way is to book a direct cab to Nahargarh Biological Park.

You can take your own vehicle to the Park.

Once you reach there, you need to walk for 1-2 km to reach the main entry gate. There are many e-rickshaws available there if you are not willing to walk.

Travel Tips:

1. The time needed for the complete tour of the park is around 2-3 hours.

2. You may have to stand in the queue for tickets if you are visiting on public holidays or weekends, you may find the place a bit crowded. But anyway, there is no fun without the crowd.

3. Try to wear a comfortable dress and footwear. 

4. Carry water bottles with you.

5. Do not disturb any animal or try to violate any rules.

6. It's always good if you maintain cleanliness, so try not to throw any waste anywhere other than dustbins.

I am going to take you to the very famous and splendid collection of art and architecture, Amber Fort. Amber fort is an extensive Palace and a must-visit place in Jaipur city.

We all know that Jaipur, known as 'Pink city' is globally renowned for the wonderful colored gems, the remarkable forts, and the monuments, alluring with the ancient history. Jaipur is one of the three cities of the golden triangle along with Delhi and Agra. 

Jaipur was established by Raja Jai Singh II, the king of Amber. The city was built following the proper rules of Vastu Shastra, being one of the specialties and the reasons why many people moved to this city very rapidly.

About Amber Fort?

This charming complex, situated about 11 kilometers from Jaipur is situated at Amber. This was the capital city originally, before Jaipur. Amer Fort is a very old fort re-constructed by Raja Man Singh in 1592. The Amer Fort was built with red marbles and sandstones.

Being listed in the UNESCO world heritage, there are thousands of visitors who come to visit this royal fort every day. The fort is like a crown on Pink City, Jaipur. 

Forts are very often located at the hilltops, unlike this heritage Fort. The hill on which Amer Fort was built is known as Cheelon Ka Teela, which means the place where the eagle lives. The fort was first constructed by a tribal group called Meenas back in the 10th century. And later it was rebuilt by Raja Man Singh when he was planning the city of Jaipur. 

Amber Fort Jaipur

What Is The History of Amber Fort?

The small town, Amer was founded by Meenas. Later the Amer Fort was built by Raja Man Singh, during his settlement in Jaipur. The Amer City has become more popular, considering the hometown of Princes Jodha Bai, a companion of Akbar.

Raja Man Singh was Akbar's ally in his court and this is the reason why we can see the Mughal style in the architecture of the fort.

There are many structures in the fort built by Meenas that have been improvised by successive Rulers, adding the glory of the artistic architecture.

Amer Fort is the reflection of Rajputana's architectural style as well as the Mughals' touch in the interior, making this fort a very famous monument in the city. The complete fort can be set as an example of the combination of Rajputana and Mughals art and architects.

Amber Fort in Monsoon

How To Reach Amber Fort?

Amer Fort is just 11KM from Jaipur city. You can easily book a cab or autorickshaw and reach the Fort.

Jaipur is well connected to all of the major cities and states of the country. You can easily find frequent flights or trains or buses to reach Jaipur.

If you are visiting directly from the airport, the cheapest way is to catch a direct bus from Airport. Or you can book a direct cab. It takes around 1.5 hours to reach Amer Fort from Jaipur Airport.

If you are planning a trip to Jaipur, Amer Fort should be on your list. You can visit Plan A Trip To Jaipur to help you plan a 2-3 day trip to Jaipur.

What are the opening Time and Entry Fees?

The visiting hours of Amer Fort are - 8 AM to 5.30 PM.

The entry fees for Indian visitors: Rs. 25

The entry fees for foreign visitors: Rs. 550

Also, there is the Lighting Show inside the Fort. The charges and the timing of the show are as follows:

Show in English: Starts from 7.30 PM and Entry Fees Rs 200 

Show in Hindi: Starts from 8.30 PM and Entry Fees Rs 100 

Elephant Ride: You can have an Elephant ride in the Amer Palace, charging Rs. 1200 for two-person.

Note: Due to COVID-19, all of the Forts and Palaces in Rajasthan are closed for the Public. You can visit once the COVID situation becomes normal.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Amber Fort?

Jaipur experiences really Hot during summers. So try to plan your Trip during winters and spring from October to March.

The weather has a major role to play in your trip to Amer Fort. If you are lucky enough to visit this Fort in nice and pleasant weather, you will definitely enjoy your visit.

Amber Fort looks amazingly beautiful in Monsoon

The architecture of Amber Fort:

Amber Fort is full of colorful architectural designs. The fort is built with white and red sandstones. It is the perfect combination of Hindu architecture and Mughal artistry. 

The carvings in the ceilings and the inner walls are really very attractive. The whole Palace is divided into four sections called a courtyard. Each courtyard has uniquely designed entry gates.

There are many stunning structures and buildings inside the Palace, like Sukh Mandir, Sheesh Mahal, Ganesh Pol, and many others. You will find the glorious  Diwan-i-Khas and Diwan-i-Aam featuring the amazing combination of Hindus and Mughals architecture.

One of the courtyard in Amber Fort

You will also find many ancient-style, illustrating paintings, giving a deep understanding of the Rajputana culture. Along with the paintings, there is beautiful lush greenery adding charm to the garden, constructed in Mughal style.

The Amber Fort has so many places which should not be missed. I am going one by one to give brief information about each place.

1. Jaleb Chowk:

Once you reach the entrance of the Fort after climbing the wall of the Fort, you will find a tall door, known as Suraj Pol or Sun Gate. There is an open courtyard, which is surrounded by yellow-colored structures, on three sides and one side of the wall has the look of the water tank. 

Jaleb Chowk in Amber Fort

In the middle of this water tank, there is the Saffron Garden or Kesar Kyari. This garden grows a good amount of Saffron in the hot and dry climate of Rajasthan.

Saffron Garden or Kesar Kyari can be viewed from the top of Amber Fort

2. Sila Devi Temple:

There is a temple called Sila Devi temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. The stone or the Shila idol is brought from Bengal, the place famous for Kali Pooja. It is said that, before going to any war, the warriors worship the Shakti Devi.

The silver door of the Sila Devi temple is worth watching.

Beautiful Natarajan statute in Amber Fort

 3. Diwan-i-Aam:

This is a public hall where common people gather to share their issues and sorrows with the King. Also, the king announces public announcements in this hall. The pillars in the hall are arranged in a very beautiful and different manner, which changes the look of this open hall. 

The pillars have an identical design of double-elephant on the top.

Diwan-i-Aam in Amber Fort

4. Ganesh Pol Entrance:

Once you cover Diwan-i-Aam, this is the real entrance of the Fort, towards the private area. The entrance has paintings on freshly spread moist lime plaster mixed with water-based pigment, called frescos. There is a Ganesh painting directly on the walls. The walls and the ceiling are full of floral designs or Phool Patti designs. The color used is pastel and you will find the Indian touch in the fresco used. Along with the Hindu art, you will get the Mughals touch in the floral designs also you will get the fusion of art here.

Ganesh Pol Gate in Amber Palace

Also, there is a Turkish bath or Hammam, just beside the Ganesh Pol, towards the left. This is not so big but its operation mechanism is quite interesting.

5. Sheesh Mahal:

Sheesh Mahal, the Glass Palace is one of the best-looking Palace in Rajasthan. The beauty and opulent decor of the Sheesh Mahal give us a glimpse of royal art. The Sheesh Mahal shows the wonderful Mughal architectural influence on Rajasthani Royal artistry. 

Sheesh Mahal inside Amber Fort

About Sheesh Mahal - 

This beautiful mirror Palace is a splendid architecture built with precious stones and glasses, coated with handmade paintings. Sheesh, Mahal is the most beautiful and breathtaking part of Amber Fort.

What is the History of Sheesh Mahal - 

Sheesh, Mahal was built by Raja Man Singh, during the establishment of Jaipur. This Palace is also famous in Bollywood history as a song from Mughal-e-Azam was shot in the Sheesh Mahal, which turns out an excellent result. 

The Architecture of Sheesh Mahal - 

The walls and ceiling of the hall of Sheesh Mahal are made of pure glass and precious stones. There are beautiful, skillful, and impressive paintings and flowers carved in the stones and glasses. The ceiling glass gives the most elegant look and because of its glass reflection, the lighting of only two candles, enlightens like thousands of stars in the ceiling of the Mahal, giving an amazing and marvelous look. 

Glass and Precious stone are carved in walls in Seesh Mahal

Why Sheesh Mahal was built?

There is a very thoughtful reason behind the construction of Sheesh Mahal. In ancient days, Queens and ladies were not allowed to sleep in the open air under the sky, but they wanted to. So the king ordered his architecture to construct the Mahal in such a way that resolves this issue. 

The architecture made this Mahal using stones and glasses. It's built-in such a way that at night two candle's reflections looked like stars glowing and also warm the room during winters.

The entry in the Sheesh Mahal is restricted these days, but you can defiantly have a look from outside and watch the amazing artwork of glass and handmade paintings. 

6. Sukh Mahal:

Sukh Mahal, meaning the hall of Pleasure or Happiness. This is just like an air-conditioned area due to the water running channels, this is the technique used to keep the hall cool during the summer. The shades used in the walls are cool blue color, supporting the nature of the room. 

Sukh Mahal or The Hall of Pleasure

Tips To Visit Amber Fort:

1. It takes 3-4 hours to visit complete Amber Fort, along with taking pictures.

2. Try to wear comfortable cloth and footwear because you have to keep standing and walking for a long time.

3. Carry a water bottle with you, you might feel thirsty.

4. Definitely take a local guide. Your visit will not be complete without hearing the stories related to this Palace.

5. Cafes near Amber Fort serves yummy food, but are expensive.

6. If you are taking your own car, drive safely because you have to drive uphill and you will have a slope while returning.

I hope the blog helps you out in knowing everything about this beautiful fort.

Also, you can visit Other Places in Jaipur, Rajasthan.

Thanks for reading :)

Love

"Kasol is a second home for a traveler in India! Green, chill, smoke & lost"

Are you thinking about a getaway with your friends? Are you mad about the serene scenic beauty of nature? Are you crazy to take some amazing shots of serene nature? The answer to all your questions is "A Trip to Kasol". 

If you haven't planned yet, then you are on the right blog. I am going to share with you a complete travel guide and our experiences, along with the tips and measures you should follow.

About Kasol:

Kasol is the very famous hill station in Himachal Pradesh, full of lush greenery and charming beauty, and is the tourist destination for a huge number of visitors for obvious reasons. Kasol is in Kullu district, situated in Parvati Valley, on the way between Bhuntar and Manikaran. It is around 30KM from Bhuntar and 3.4 KM from Manikaran.

Kasol is also known as mini-Israel and the Amsterdam of India because of a great number of foreigners and Israel visitors. They prefer to live here as their home. Don't be surprised if you find more Israelis than Indians here.

Parvati River in Kasol

Culture in Kasol:

Kasol is also famous for its culture and the peace around here. Kasol is very well known for the hippie culture. Also, on religious terms, there is a famous Gurudwara Shri Manikaran Sahib, commonly known for its hot water spring, just near Kasol. You will also find Lord Shiva followers in the mountains and valleys. The nearby Parvati valley and Shiva temple attract the followers.

The adventurous trek, beautiful villages, and the sight of Parvati Valley will make your trip a dreamy and glorious one. Nature feels so good here that you will never want to leave Kasol. The mesmerizing views, beautiful greenery, amazing landscape, phenomenal weather are something which you can't miss in one place.

The mesmerizing view of Kasol with Lush green pine trees and snow-covered Mountains

One more thing, the easy availability of the world-famous Malana cream makes Kasol really popular. This is probably one of the reasons to pull peace searching seekers to come here.

In Kasol, Hemp is grown in the wild

How is the Weather in Kasol?

Throughout the year, Kasol is blessed with tremendous weather and experiences all seasons of the cycle. You will experience pleasant summer and gratifying snowfall in the winters. In every season, Kasol's weather is just amusing.

Monsoon in the Kasol is just a delight. You will find a fantastic landscape, with lush greenery covering the valleys along the Parvati river. The weather is pleasant for the whole year. It's just that the temperature in the winters may reach as below as 0 to -1 degrees.

You can decide which season you like the most or how you want to amuse yourself, snow in the mountains or green lush all around the mountains. It is totally up to you!!

Tip: Try to avoid the monsoon, because the valleys and the places would be slippery. It is not preferred to go on the trek in the rainy season.

Beautiful scenic view in Kasol

What is the Best Time To Visit Kasol?

If you are a first-timer, then the best time to visit Kasol is from March to June. 

During Summers, the temperature will be around 15 degrees, you can chill around and trek. This is one of the reasons, why most Indians prefer summer to visit Kasol. Kasol is crowded during this summer. There will be parties and a chilling and hippie atmosphere during this time.

If you want less crowded and less commercial activity, choose to visit during the post-monsoon period, i.e September to November. There will be greenery and a bit colder.

Monsoon should be avoided, as the area is prone to landslides.

Beautiful Parvati river water level rises in Monsoon

How To Reach Kasol?

There are many ways to reach Kasol, you can pick anyone as per your choice,

1. Airway: Bhuntar is the nearest airport, which is 31 KM away. But be aware that there are limited flights to Bhuntar. The other nearby airport is Chandigarh airport, which is 295KM away. If you are taking this route, you can book a taxi from Bhuntar airport, and within an hour you will reach Kasol.

2. Railway: The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar railway station, which is 144 KM away from Kasol. It will take 4-5 hours to reach Kasol. You can directly book a cab after reaching the station.

There is another way also, take an early morning Shatabdi Express from Delhi to Chandigarh and reach there before 11 AM. After reaching Chandigarh, you can book a taxi or cab and reach Kasol.

3. Roadway: The best way for a Kasol trip is by Road. The distance from Delhi to Kasol is around 565KM. It will take around 12 hours. You will find amazing "Dhabas" on the Delhi-Chandigarh highway one of them is in Murthal "Sukhdev Dhaba". Once you exit Chandigarh, you will enter the greenery land and the hills will accompany you all along, with the music added, your journey will become really happening.

The road condition is also really good. It's definitely a worth-try trip.

Public Transport/Bus:

You will get many overnight buses from ISBT, Delhi to Bhuntar. The Volvo/AC buses are available from the INR 1500.

If you take a direct bus from Chandigarh, it will take around 8 hours to reach Bhuntar. After reaching Bhuntar you can change your bus and take private taxis or bus to Kasol. 

Tip: I would recommend taking a private taxi from Bhuntar to Kasol, as the frequency of the local bus is close to 1 hour.

Kasol Bus Stand

Local Mode of Transport:

The best mode to explore Kasol is defiantly by walking, on foot. You can explore the trek, outing, hikes. Enjoy the quietness and calmness near the bank of the Parvati river. You may find the roads for the vehicles but still, it is highly recommended that walking is the best in every way.

Note: Do not lose the way while moving, anyway, you will find the boards and signs for the way all along. 

Itinerary For Kasol Trip:

Now that you have a basic idea about Kasol, it is easy to plan your trip. Also, I am going to share a high-level itinerary for you, in case you are visiting Kasol for the first time, you can use the below itinerary, which will guide you to plan your trip.

Day 1: Reach Kasol (Delhi to Kasol/ Chandigarh to Kasol/ Bhuntar airport to Kasol)

Day 2: Kasol - Explore and chill around

Day 3: Plan to visit Tosh Village or Chalal Village or Plan for Kheerganga Trek. I have covered a detailed blog on How you can plan your Kheerganga Trek

Day 4: Return back from Kasol to Delhi/Chandigarh/Bhuntar airport)

Somewhere on the way to our Kasol Trip

Where To Stay In Kasol?

You will find many pocket-friendly options to stay in Kasol, Parvati Valley, and nearby villages. Good hostels, small hotels, lounges, or camping services are easily available in Kasol.

If you are traveling with your family, book a hotel before reaching there. there may be chances of houseful. 

You will find many guest houses, luxury hotels if you want a relaxing stay.

Note: Before booking or arriving at the hotel, try to have a look at the reviews. This helps you a lot in deciding which place will be the best for your accommodation.

In Kasol market lane Plenty of budget-friendly options are available for accommodation

What To Do In Kasol?

You will enjoy Kasol when you know, what can be done here. Other than beautiful tremendous nature, Kasol is famous for its commercial attractions. There are following some of the interesting things you can do in Kasol:

1. Kheerganga Trek: 

Kheerganga is at the extreme end of Parvati Valley, mostly covered with snow. This is like magical heaven for all of the tourists who come from all over the World. Once you reach the top of Kheer Ganga, you will see yourself in between beautiful and dense clouds, snow-capped mountains, long pine trees. 

Kheerganga trek is popular because after reaching the top one can enjoy and relax in the natural hot water spring which is also considered very auspicious. The trekking route has lots of interesting spots like Rudra waterfall, Shiva Temple, Pine trees along with an amazing view of flora around.

Please visit Tosh to Kheerganga Trek - A Complete Travel Guide to get a complete guide on Kheerganga Trek.

Kheerganga Trek

2. Visit Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara:

Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara is located at about 6KM from Kasol, in the middle of River Beas. In spite of any religion, which you follow, this is a must-visit place if you are on a Kasol trip. There is a very famous natural hot water spring, and it is believed that taking a dip in its auspicious water can remove all the sins.

The "Langar" in this Gurudwara serves delicious food, which is cooked inside its four walls don't forget to try it do some "Seva" for your inner peace. Your visit will definitely be worth it.

Location: Hari Har Ghat, Manikaran road, Manikaran, Himachal Pradesh.

Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara

3. Kasol Party:

There are various music parties in Kasol, which keep happening here. If you love the party and chill culture, then parties at Parvati Valley should be a must to attend. People come here to forget all their worries and sorrows and enjoy the moment. 

Hype Music Festival is one of the most popular events in Kasol. The musical performances, bonfire, trippy decorations, and lighting effects enhance the vibes and makes the festive environment.

Parties usually organized on the other side of the Parvati River

4. Must try Israeli Cuisine:

This can be considered as one of the reasons that Kasol is known as mini -Israeli of India. You definitely cant miss lemon cakes, shakshouka, and another exotic Israeli cuisine.

There are various cafes in the streets of Kasol. You will find a golden chance to enjoy your dining an amazing food and fabulous weather, and long conversations with your loved ones. 

Try desserts in 'Evergreen restaurant and cafe'.

Evergreen Cafe in Kasol

5. Chalal Village:

Chalal is a village that can be addictive, full of chirpy birds and colorful trees. It feels like heaven, walking in the hike of Chalal. It takes around 25 minutes to reach Chalal village by walk. The solitude nature of this village will make you feel out of the world.

Another specialty here is the food, which is very yum. There are many cafes just beside the free-flowing Parvati river. The village is also wallet-friendly. You should not miss visiting this small but amazing village.

Note: Other than the above places there are many other small villages nearby Kasol, which are full of nature and beauty. But for a trip, the above places are must-try places.

On our way to Chalal Village Trek

What is the cost of the Kasol Trip?

This is defiantly a by default question that arises in everyone's mind, 'how much a Kasol trip will cost?'

The answer to this question basically depends on how long the trip is? If you are planning for a 4-5 day trip, the Kasol trip will cost you around 5000-7000, which again depends on where you stay and what you eat.

The main expense is actually traveling. The mode of traveling also plays a major role in the cost of your whole trip.

Tip: Try to plan a Kasol trip in a group, so that the costing could be shared and you can have a good affordable Kasol trip.

Important Points for Kasol Trip:

1. Try to keep some extra cash with you, ATMs are limited and you may not be able to get cash.

2. While going out, Carry your own water bottle and try to fill it up where ever possible. 

3. Try to wear good trekking shoes, if you are planning to go on trekking to avoid any casualty.

4. Try not to throw any plastic garbage in open areas, valleys, and mountains and be a responsible tourist.

5. In Winters, the path is covered in snow and you may not able to travel and it is recommended to avoid going on a trek in winter.

I hope this travel guide helps you in planning your trip to Kasol.

Feel free to share suggestions or feedback if you have any in the comment section. Thank you for reading!! :)

Being the dream destination of art and craft lovers, the Pink City, Jaipur will never stop amazing you with its archeological and historical mysteries in the form of monuments, forts, and palaces.

Today I am going to take you to the most fascinating astronomical observatory, located at the center of Jaipur city, Jantar Mantar.

Astronomical Observatory, Jantar Mantar

Jantar Mantar is one of the world's largest astronomical observatories and is marked as UNESCO's world heritage site in 2010. Jantar Mantar has a collection of archeological and astronomical instruments. There are around 19 geometrical devices, each having a different specialty. There are devices to measure time, prediction of eclipses, the instrument to track orbital stars, determine celestial height. 

Jantar Mantar marked as a UNESCO world heritage site in 2010

All of the instruments are carved of stones and marbles. Some of them are designed by Raja Madho Singh himself.

The entire area covers the land of 18700m. The instruments named Samrat Yantra, Raj Yantra, Chakra Yanta, Disha Yantra, and many more are arranged in a uniform manner in the whole area.

Moving on to the history of Jantar Mantar.

History of Jantar Mantar?

Jantar Mantar, Jaipur is an astronomical site, built in the 18th century. This is one of the largest observatories in the world, made of interesting stone structures, made to identify the position of celestial bodies and also to calculate time. The huge instruments there are made up of stones, which can resist temperature changes, shakes, and inaccuracies, following the principles of Indian, Islamic, and western astronomy to attain the maximum accuracy.

Jantar Mantar, Jaipur

Now let's move on, how the Jantar Mantar was built:

How Jantar Mantar was built?

Jantar Mantar was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, and he built 5 different observatories in different places of the country, Jaipur, Delhi, Mathura, Ujjain, and Varanasi. Jantar Mantar in Jaipur is the largest one of all.

Maharaja Jai Singh II is the founder and a potential ruler of Jaipur city. He was a great scholar in physics, mathematics, and astronomy.

Once a Mughal Emperor, Muhammad Shah assigned him a task to identify the position and movement of celestial bodies. Raja Jai Singh got desperate to determine the time. He decided to create a well-defined calendar. He was interested in mankind and wanted to prepare an accurate astronomical instrument.

To full fill his this dream, he constructed Jantar Mantar in the year, 1718. He made a mission out of this and started studying cosmological principles, based on the findings of Hindu, Islamic, European, and Persian civilizations. And finally constructed five different observatories.

Laghu Samrat and Narivalya Yantra, Jantar Mantar

The architecture of Jantar Mantar Jaipur?

Jantar Mantar is a collection of astronomical and architectural instruments. There are many instruments, out of which around 20 are the major devices, each having a different specific application.

The purpose of these instruments is to measure times, define the distances between the planets and other celestial bodies. Planetary motions, predictions of eclipses, tracking orbital stars.

The whole observatory is constructed in the land of around 18700 meters. The whole area covers so many instruments, and some of them are known for the largest instruments of their type. All the instruments are finely designed out of stones and marbles. You will be amazed after watching such instruments, and the small scales made of stones with proper measurement. Many instruments are still known for their accuracy.

Jantar Mantar Entry Gate

How To Reach Jantar Mantar, Jaipur?

If you are visiting Jantar Mantar on your Trip to Jaipur, you can directly take a cab to Jantar Mantar and cover both Jantar Mantar and The City Palace in one go.

If you traveling to Jantar Mantar directly from Jaipur Airport, you can opt for a Line 3 Bus from the airport to Tonk Phatak and catch a different Bus to Badi Chaupad from there. From Badi Chaupad, take a small walk and you will reach Jantar Mantar.

Or you can book a cab or taxi directly to Jantar Mantar.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Jantar Mantar?

The best time to Visit Jantar Mantar is definitely the Winters or Spring months. Summers are not irresistible in Rajasthan. So I would not suggest visiting in Summers.

Vrihat Samrat Yantra

What is the entry Fee of Jantar Mantar?

The entry fees of Jantar Mantar is Rs. 50 for Indian Visitors and Rs. 200 for Foreigner Visitors. 

Timing to Visit Jantar Mantar:

It is open from morning 9AM to evening 5 PM.

It will take 2-3 hours for the complete visit to Jantar Mantar. I would recommend taking a guide so that your visit would be exciting after knowing the working of each instrument and how it was built.

Location of Jantar Mantar: 

Jantar Mantar in Jaipur is located in Gangori Bazar, inside the market. It is very near to the City Palace. It is said that Jantar Mantar was extended after the construction of City Palace.

Instruments In Jantar Mantar:

Jantar Mantar has basically stone structures of different shapes, with perfectly aligned measurement scale to determine interesting spacial geometry and time.

 I am going to provide important information on the must-visit instruments in Jantar Mantar.

1. Vrihat Smarat Yantra : The Huge Sundial

Vrihat Samrat Yantra is a giant Sundial, constructed exactly at the center of Jantar Mantar. It is around 27 meters long and known as the tallest sundial in the world.

The meaning of Samrat Yantra is "Supreme Instrument", is an equinoctial, (celestial equator) sundial, which measures time up to two seconds accuracy.

There is the triangular wall of the yantra, whose shadow, which is kept at the north-south direction with an identical angle to the latitude of the position, travels equal distances in equal intervals of time. This is the standard movement of the shadow of the wall used to calculate/predict the time.

Prototype of Vrihat Samrat Yantra

Vrihat Samrat Yantra

2. Laghu Samrat Yantra :

This control is also known as "Small Samrat Yantra", since it is the small equipment to calculate time, with an accuracy level of up to 20 seconds.

There is a sundial with a ramp in the instrument, which points in the North pole direction. With the movement of ramp shadow onto the finer divisions marked on the curved scale, time is calculated.

Local time, Jaipur's time can be easily calculated by the shadow of the triangular wall of the yantra. 

Small or Laghu Samrat Yantra

3. Ram Yantra:

This yantra is used for the measurement of azimuth (the coordinate system in which a celestial object's position is described) and elevation of the sun and other planets. There is a tube-shaped structure, opening in the direction of the sky. Each tube has a pole defined at its center. The poles are of equal heights. There are scales available in the inside wall of the yantra, indicating the angle of altitude and azimuth of the celestial bodies. 

Ram Yantra is available only in Jaipur and Delhi Jantar Mantar.

Ram Yantra, Jantar Mantra

4. Jaya Prakash Yantra

Jaya Prakash yantra has two hemispherical-shaped sundials that look like bowls, graded with marble slabs. When the inverted image of the sky falls on the slabs, the movement of this inverted shadow helps to determine the elevation, exact position, azimuth, and hour angle of heavenly bodies.

5. Chakra Yantra:

This instrument is a ring, which is used by astronomers to calculate the coordinates of the sun and the hour angle. There are four semi-circular arches, meant for the shadow to fall. Because of this process, the declination of the sun reduces by four times a day.

Chakra Yantra, Jantar Mantar

6. Rasivalya(Zodiacle Circle):

This instrument is to determine the latitude and longitude of the celestial bodies. There is a total of twelve instruments that represent the zodiac signs, every instrument is measured when the corresponding sign of the zodiac transits the meridian.

Rasivalya(Zodiacle Circle), Jantar Mantar

7. Nadivalaya: 

This instrument is used to measure the time to an accuracy of less than a minute. This instrument consists of two circular plates, facing in the north and south direction which are its dials. The wall of the circular plates is inclined towards the south direction at such an angle that the instrument remains parallel to the plane of the Earth equator.

The needles placed at the center are parallel to the axis of rotation of the earth its shadow is projected on the graduated dials makes it possible to know the minutes and the hour.

Nadivalaya Yantra, Jantar Mantar

8. Kranti Vritya:

This is a special instrument used to measure the solar sign during day time. There are many small structures, equidistant from each other on the plane surface. You can't miss this instrument on your visit to Jantar Mantar.

Kranti Vritya Yantra, Jantar Mantar

Important Tips For Visiting Jantar Mantar:

1. Try planning your visit in winters or early monsoon season because summer would be very hectic with irresistible heat.

2. Carry a water bottle with you for the safer side.

3. Try to wear comfortable clothes and footwear because you may have to walk for a long.

4. If you keen on learning and knowing the historical instrument's working, definitely take a guide.

5. You are allowed to take the photographs.

Thanks for reading :)