The “Water Palace” that no one really knows when and why it was built.
Jal Mahal (meaning "Water Palace") is a magnificent palace located in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake in Jaipur city, the capital of the state of Rajasthan, India. No one really knows when and why it was built.
Palace originsIt is believed that the red sandstone structure is at least 300 years old and has been used as a royal summer retreat for duck hunting parties, considering that the lake used to be a bird watcher’s paradise in the past. It was home to more than 150 species of local and migratory birds that included large flamingo and great crested grebe.
ConstructionAlthough the red-walled fort looks flat, it actually has five levels, with four being submerged under the lake. The fifth floor above water, allows visitors to examine its beauty. Every archway, balcony and doorway is adorned with marble carvings, along with the 20 pillars which are the cenotaph of the royal family of Raja Jai Singh. There are four chattris, or domed pavilions, on all four corners of the palace and they are all octagonal in shape.
Visiting the palaceThe palace was recently restored and is now open to visitors. Although gondola trips are no longer available, there are boat trips that can be booked for visiting the palace. There are no chambers in the palace but there is a beautiful terrace garden which allows guests to relax among the hyacinths and jasmine flowers. Furthermore, art galleries are being held in its picturesque surroundings.
Sources:
http://weburbanist.com/2014/03/10/drowned-towns-10-underwater-ghost-cities-buildings/ and
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/travel_news/article-3067141/The-mystery-India-s-floating-palace-Former-royal-haunt-middle-lake-neglected-200-years-transformed-exclusive-restaurant.html (also images source)
Main image source: http://incredibleindiatours.com/favourite-places-india-jaipur/