Jaipur – the pink city is one of the most loved travel destinations for Indians and foreigners as well. Every corner of the city has some story to tell of the legacy left by the royal families of Jaipur. You can have an authentic experience of exploring the city with these lesser-known palaces of Jaipur on your next trip!
1. Sisodiya Rani Palace and Garden
Sisodiya Rani Palace and Garden also goes by the name Sisodiya Rani ka Bagh. The palace is 10 km away from the pink city, Jaipur. The palace is known to have been constructed in the first half of the 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II for his queen Sisodiya Rani. The palace has marvellous architecture with beautiful wall paintings. The Rajsthani-styled palace has beautiful arches, terraces, and pavilions. The paintings on the wall depict the life of Lord Krishna, especially Radha-Krishna. When visiting the palace, one can enjoy the surrounding gardens from where the view is amazing.
Where: Jaipur Agra Road
2. Jal Mahal
Jal Mahal literally translates to Water Palace which it is. Standing right in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake, the pink-marbled palace is one of the most popular spots for sightseeing. Tourists can soak in the beauty of the magnificent Mahal near the lake. The pastel colour of the palace sits beautifully in a sharp contrasting manner with the deep blue water of the lake. It is also one of the most photographed palaces in Jaipur. Currently, it is not allowed to visit inside the palace.
Where: Amber Road, Jaipur
3. Raj Mahal/Sheesh Mahal
Take a sneak peek into the architectural grandeur and royal lifestyle of the past with the Raj Mahal. Also known as Sheesh Mahal, it is a part of the Amer Fort complex. The palace has a blended architecture of Mughal and Rajput styles. The out worldly mirror work of this palace is a visual treat. The walls of the palace have beautiful frescoes depicting scenes from the royal court, Hindu mythology, and historical events. The courtyard with gardens, pavillions, and fountains has its charm.
Where: Amber Fort, Jaipur
4. Madhavendra Palace
Situated in the Nahargarh Fort complex, the palace surrounds a central courtyard. The series of corridors, labyrinthine rooms, and staircases create a mysterious air around the palace. The palace has delicate wall paintings that add to the opulence of the palace. And the bonus point is that it features India’s first contemporary sculpture park.
Where: Nahargarh Fort, Jaipur
5. Sargasuli/Isarlat Tower
Isarlat or Sargasuli Tower is one of the lesser-known palaces right in the heart of Jaipur. The sky-touching 7-story tower also goes by the name “Tower of Heaven”. It is octagonal and yellow. From the top of the tower, it is easy to take a bird-eye view of the pink city and enjoy the panoramic view of Jaipur. So, on your next visit to the city, you must not forget to check out this hidden gem .
Where: Aatish Market, Gangori Bazaar, J.D.A. Market, Kanwar Nagar, Jaipur
6. Kanak Vrindavan
Kanak Vrindavan is located in the foothills of Nahargarh Fort and lies on the way to Amer Fort. It is a beautiful garden complex that covers several acres with its lush greenery, beautiful flower beds, and well-manicured lawns. A stroll in the garden will leave you in awe of this beauty. The garden complex has a small palace called Kanak Mahal. Though the palace does not match the grandeur of other well-known palaces of Jaipur, it sure adds some charm to the garden. The traditional architecture of the Mahal has arches, ornate pillars, and detailed carvings.
Where: Kanak Ghati Road, Jal Mahal, Amer, Jaipur
7. Chandra Mahal
Yet another lesser-known palace located in the heart of Jaipur is Chandra Mahal. Situated with the City Palace Complex, it once was the royal residence and still is. The seven-storey palace has a Mughal, Rajput, and European style architectural blend and is adorned with beautiful murals, ornate decorations, delicate mirrorwork, and carvings. The balconies and the terrace of the palace give you stunning views of the city.
Where: Chouda Rasta, Kanwar Nagar, Jaipur.
Next time you visit Jaipur, explore these lesser-known palaces to get a sneak peek into the rich and royal grandeur of the past.