Why is Jal Mahal closed? I have frequently been inquired. The reason why Jal mahal is closed is because of an impending court case.
The Rajasthan government under Congress party rule in 2003 invited bids for the Jal Mahal project which covers Mansagar lake & Jal Mahal. The project included cleaning & developing the area, restoring the Jal Mahal Palace, and building two hotels along with a handicraft market. The subsequent government under the BJP rule challenged the awarding of the contract to the bidder. The reason cited was awarding the contract at a value much less than its worth and tax evasion. There are many opinions about this decision. Some cite reasons like politics and favoritism, among others. Until the court pronounces its verdict on the case, visitors will not be allowed inside Jal Mahal.
History Of Jal Mahal
It is strange not much is known about the history of the Jal Mahal. Numerous sources mention conflicting information. One theory claims Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur built the Jal Mahal. Another one mentions, Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, the king who commissioned Hawa Mahal & Brij Nidhi Temple. I believe the first theory must be true based on various corroborations. Therefore, it is likely to have been completed by 1740 AD.
Why was Jal Mahal Built?
Due to the lack of reliable information, many theories have emerged. The most popular is this was a bird hunting place for the Maharaja. Another contest Jal Mahal was built as a monsoon palace or maybe it was used as a pleasure garden. Hence, it is implied Jal Mahal is where the Maharaja spent his time with an entourage of Maharani or queens. Well, who knows?
A Visit Inside Jal Mahal
Tourists and locals both ask the same question. What does the Jal mahal look like from the inside? Since visitors are not allowed in Jal Mahal, the details pertaining to the beauty of Jal Mahal are not easily available.
I did have a chance to visit and take the Jal Mahal inside tour some time ago. I’m sharing the pictures in this blog on Jal Mahal.
The gallery on level 1 has been restored and currently showcases paintings by local artists. These paintings depict scenes of Jaipur from the bygone period.
Some of the scenes presented in this exhibition include the Teej festival, the king and queen playing Holi in Jaipur, women enjoying the monsoon season on swings, and so forth.
Chameli Bagh
Chameli Bagh is the crowning glory of the Jal Mahal. This refers to the garden on the terrace with incredible views of the surrounding area. I’m not sure why they call it Chameli Bagh as I could only see the Champa flower.
The current garden might be different from the original one as this entire place has been restored. The restoration work was done by Mitchell Crites. He heads Saray design and specializes in Indian-Islamic art & architecture restoration. Apart from the garden, there are pavilions or Chhatris on all four sides along with Tibaris. Tibari or Tibara as some people call it is an important architectural element of this region; it essentially refers to a structure with walls on three sides.
A raised platform in the center looks stunning in white marble. The terrace garden concept is derived from the Mughal garden, similar to the one in the Amer Fort.
There are four Tibaris or Tibara, depending on how one terms it on the terrace. More details later in this post.
The Beauty Of Jal Mahal | Architecture
Jal Mahal is built in Rajput-Mughal architecture style. The building comprises a chamber-less terrace garden flanked by pavilions.
There is a corridor at level 1 running all along its sides. This has now been converted into an art gallery and displays pieces of art depicting glimpses from the past, as mentioned above.
Tibaris
There are four Tibaris on the terrace. Each of these has now been named differently.
- Anand Mahal Tibari
The key feature of Anand Mahal Tibari is floral motifs. Reminiscent of the Mugal art forms, floral patterns & designs are in gold, red, and blue color.
Anand Bihari Tibari restoration is inspired by some sections of Jaipur City Palace.
- Badal Mahal Tibari
Badal Mahal represents monsoon clouds and recreates the elements one witness & experiences in monsoon-like swirling clouds.
- Raas Niwas Tibari
Krishna remains the inspiration behind the decorative elements of Raas Bihari Tibari. The ceiling has a painting depicting Krishna and Gopis in Raslila in a garden. Also painted on the ceiling are City Palace Chandra Mahal, Kanak Vrindavan Garden, and Jaigarh Fort. These are prominent places in Jaipur.
- Gulabi Tibari
Gulabi Tibari is called so because it features pink stucco.
- The Scented Chamber
The Scented Chamber comprises a room where one can experience the scents and smells of the royal court with “Ittar” or perfumes. This is one of the five current themed exhibitions. Other themes for the exhibitions are Monsoon unfolding, Joys of Jal Mahal, Mela Unfolding, and Gardens of Pleasure.
Restoration Of Jal Mahal
It is hard to imagine the Jal Mahal without water. But a couple of years ago before the restoration of Jal mahal began, there were periods when the lake was devoid of water. The sewage was diverted to Mansagar lake and it killed the local ecology and the lake. The building too was in disrepair. Things improved after the restoration project was taken up. Presently, the lake supports a variety of birds.
People repeatedly ask about Jal Mahal boating charges. Unfortunately, it is not permitted, at the moment. In the future, it certainly will be.
Jal Mahal Timings
Jal Mahal is closed for visitors, at the moment.
The Jal Mahal hotel project is called JalTarang. It is a unique project in Jaipur. Unfortunately, the project is held up for certain reasons.
Location- Where is Jal Mahal?
Jal Mahal is located close to Kanak Vrindavan Garden on the road connecting Jaipur with Amer Fort and Nahargarh Fort. It is mid-way between Johari Bazaar and Amer Fort.
Places Near Jal Mahal To Visit
Among the places one can add along with a visit to Jal Mahal are Amer Fort and Nahargarh Fort. Those interested in offbeat explorations can visit Natwar Ji Temple and Radha Madhav Temple not far from Mansagar lake.
Also worth exploring are Gaitore, Garh Ganesh Temple, and Maharani Ki Chhatriyan.
Birding In Mansagar Lake
Unknown to most tourists, Mansagar lake which surrounds Jal Mahal is home to many birds like Great Cormorant. During the winter season, migratory birds from Mongolia and Russia can be spotted in Mansagar lake. Pelicans have been spotted during the last few years on a regular basis.
The promenade in front of Jal Mahal is a popular place for pre-wedding photoshoots and morning walkers. It is a popular sunrise point in Jaipur. Even if one cannot take a tour of Jal Mahal, I highly recommend a stroll on this promenade. Here is a picture of the promenade.
JaipurThruMyLens 
Jal Mahal has been an unreachable attraction, I didn’t know it is mired by litigation! Such a heritage should be kept out of politics. Thank you for taking us inside this beauty arv. It doesn’t seem it is so beautiful when you look at it from a distance. It could be a roaring tourist haven, earning a lot of revenue!
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Well-said! There are both views. Some people feel such buildings are not meant for heavy tourist traffic. Then there is a contrary view. I hope someday it is open for travelers to visit and experience it. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. 🙂
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The restoration work that has been done is beautiful, especially the Anand Mahal Tibarith paintings. I was surpised that there are terraces with grass and trees! I guess I didn’t notice them when I saw it from a distance. Thanks for sharing this Arv since I’ll probably never see inside in person. Maggie
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Indeed, it is beautiful. Yes, there are a few trees. I hope someday youget to see it in person, Maggie. 🙂
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Fantastic to read this and see the photos!! Cant wait to visit someday when it opens.
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I hope you do, someday, Shubham 🙂
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Such a beautiful terrace garden!
Can you believe that my father used to go to Jal Mahal to study in peace during his college days.
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wow. This is surprising, Deeksha. Did you also had an opportunity to visit sometime?
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Unfortunately never. Always saw dirty lake so couldn’t dare. Later during job, was not in Jaipur so probably must have forgotten. But your pictures shows they did a really good job with renovation.
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I remember the lake was very dirty when I was young. I have also seen this lake devoid of water. Thankfully, it’s better now. Still garbage do end up in the lake.
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Who knows with court’s stay order, now all the renovation is still in good condition or the whole money got wasted.
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At the moment it is in a good condition. Let’s hope it staps that way. 🙂
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These photos are amazing, Arv! I see such history in them. It’s unfortunate that strife can surround such a beautiful place. Thanks for sharing the history with all of us!
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Indeed, this place is both historic and beautiful. 🙂
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Oh, Arv! What a virtual tour you gave us through the interior of the Jal Mahal which I always wanted to see. The interior looks so elegant and opulent. You said that it has been restored in the recent past, but during my visit at the beginning of last year, I did not find it in a very good condition (as seen from outside by the banks of the lake). Neither the lake was really maintained as it seemed to have the sewerage connection still going on. I guess the renovation took place after my visit.
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Sarmistha, the lake underwent restoration and cleaning drive a few years ago. I agree the banks are still not clean and sewage water still finds its way. Part of the problem is that the project is on “status quo” hold. People are throwing garbage and plastic. But one was to get away from the promenade, the lake and water is in good condition. I did not encounter this issue from the other end. The building is well-maintained. I hope someday you can visit and see it in-person. Thanks for sharing your experience. 🙂
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Yes, Arv, probably the banks the the easy access spot for garbage dumping so they are not as clean. You have been there and you definitely know it better. I wish to see this magnificent structure once its opened for the public again.
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I hope you do, someday! especially durng monsoon 🙂
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This is so so beautiful! Lovely pics and so much of information! Truly every bit of Jaipur appears more enchanting through your eyes! 🤩🤩
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Thanks Radhika, I have only captured what I saw. 🙂 Hope you get to visit Jaipur, soon!
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Hope so too.😊
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🙂
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This is absolutely stunning! I’ve never heard of it before but the artwork inside and the gardens are absolutely stunning. Thank you so much for sharing these photos ❤️
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I’m sure you love visiting this place. I’m glad you enoyed this virtual post. Thnaks for sharing your thoughts.
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Looks like a gorgeous destination!
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It is. Hope you are doing well. Long time!
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Hi, it is a long time…catching up with a few of my favourite sites. 😉
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Good to know 🙂
Hope all is well at your end.
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Yes, thank you all good this end 😉
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Super 🙂
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What an absolutely stunning account Arvind! Thank you for showing us this beauty. Had never seen these pictures and had always wondered what it would look like from inside! I really hope the litigation issue is resolved soon and it opens up for general public, with a ticket! It is so well maintained and I loved the details as well. Beautiful pictures!
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I agree, Divsi. I’m glad you liked this virtual tour. I hope someday you can visit Jal Mahal and witness its beauty. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
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This is one place I always wanted to visit ….. It’s beautiful. One fine day 🤩
Somewhat reminds me of Jag Mandir palace in the middle of Lake Pichola.
I have always admired your aesthetics in photography …. Needless to say awesome 📸👌🏼
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I agree both are water palaces. I’m happy you like my pictures, Monica 🙂
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Pictures, blog content, thought – everything is just perfect
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I’m glad it lived up to your expectations, Yamini.
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🙂 Your blogs are always the best!
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Thank you for such a beautiful and insider look at the Jal Mahal. Everywhere on the internet it says that the Jal Mahal is 4 storeyed with 2 exposed. However our guide at the jaigarh fort said it’s just 2 storeys. Which one is the truth? How many storeys are the Jal Mahal made up of?
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There is not much information available on Jal Mahal. I’m not an expert but I don’t think there is any truth in two floors below the water. At least, I have not come across authentic source of information, if there is any.
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