Jal Mahal, Palace on artificial island in Jaipur, India
Jal Mahal is a palace on an artificial island in Man Sagar Lake in Jaipur. Four floors remain underwater, while the fifth rises above the surface and can be viewed from the shores.
Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh ordered this retreat built in 1799. The royal family used the structure as a hunting lodge and summer residence during the hot months.
The name translates to 'Water Palace' in Hindi, and the red sandstone walls follow classical Rajputani building traditions. Arched walkways surround the upper level, while the Bengali-style roofs are decorated with small pavilions at each corner.
A promenade along the shore offers good viewing spots, especially in clear daylight. The interior remains closed to visitors, so the experience centers on the exterior view and photography from land.
During monsoon season, the lake water level rises noticeably and makes the structure appear to float like a drifting object. In calm weather, the entire building reflects clearly in the water and doubles the image visually.
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