Introduction

A picturesque pleasure palace built by Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh, the Jalmahal shimmers amidst the cool waters of Man Sagar Lake. Viewing this 18th century palace from the clean lakeside promenade, it is easy to imagine kings, princes, and their entourage assembling for duck hunts and other revelries. The local authorities have recently refurbished the lake side, and you can now walk along the promenade or even venture for a camel ride. All while the red sandstone Jalmahal provides a beautiful backdrop. The lake is a favorite picnic spot with the locals, as well as a popular bird watching station.

Partially submerged, Jalmahal or the Lake Palace is a fine example of 18th Century Rajput architecture. At first glance, the palace seems to be a rather small structure with just one floor, only upon closer inspection do you realize that the rest of the structure lies submerged under the water. While four of its floors are submerged under water, the one floor that rises above offers a fantastic study in the design styles of that time.

The Man Sagar Lake is an artificial reservoir. The beautifully decorated facades and its intricate embellishments are a fine example of Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh’s style. With the end of Rajasthan’s monarchy, the palace was abandoned and the years have done much damage to its beauty. But the emptiness of the palace brings a deserted mystique to the palace.

Currently, visitors are not allowed to go up to the palace. The banks of the Mansagar Lake have thus become a popular picnic spot. Camel rides, ice creams, and bird-watching are just some of the activities that attract hundreds of tourists to the red promenade everyday

The lake is also popular among bird watchers, especially in winter when hundreds of migratory birds make a stop here.

The Mansagar Lake is also the venue of an annual two-day Bird Watching Fair.

Special Attributes

An 18th century palace that is partially submerged in an artificial reservoir.

Nuisance

Touts

Dressing restrictions

None, wear whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Buses, Taxis, Auto Rickshaws

Enjoyed by

All, especially families

Exposure

There will be high level of exposure to the sun. Remember to wear a hat and carry sunscreen. Bottled water and ice creams are readily available.

Avoidable Season

April, May, June, July

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

The main promenade leading to Jalmahal offers very nice views of the lake. While visiting Jalmahal, you can stop off here and enjoy a short walk, ice creams, as well as camel and elephant rides along side the picturesque palace.

Type of site

Monument/ Lake/ bird watching