The picturesque Jal Mahal alias Water Palace, situated 6.5 kms from the
city on the road to Amber is noted for its intricate amalgamation of Rajput
and Mugal stlyle of architectural design. This red sandstone palace set
amidst the Man Sagar lake and the Nahargarh hills was built by Sawai Pratap
Singh in 1799 A.D for royal duck shooting parties. The first four floors
of the palace is under the water of the lake and only the top floor remains
above the water level. Jal Mahal has richly molded and gracefully carved
balconies and arched roofs. The main attraction is its terrace garden
enclosed by arched passages and at each corner, there is a semi-octagonal
tower capped by an elegant cupola. A causeway from the main land, leads
to this extremely romantic palace. Jal Mahal offers a picturesque
view of the surrounding Man Sagar lake and the Nahargarh Fort. The lake
is an ornithologist's paradise and a favourite haunt of migratory birds.
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