Jag Mandir, Udaipur

Jag Mandir is a beautiful palace which is located on an island of Lake Pichola. The palace was all built in marble and yellow sandstone by Maharana Karan Singh in the 17th century. It was built with an aim to serve as a place for hiding of Prince Khurram, also called Shah Jahan. While Shah Jahan lived inside the Jag Mandir, he had collected numerous ideas for building the renowned architectural wonder – Taj Mahal.

Several changes were made in the original Jag Mandir Palace during the later years. Maharana Jagat Singh has made Jag Mandir what it is today. The palace houses a temple dedicated to Lord Jagdish and derives its name very much from here.

Yet another major highlight of the Jag Mandir Palace is the Gul Mahal it houses. Gul Mahal functioned as a home for Shah Jahan and his family. Since the Gul Mahal was built exclusively for Shah Jahan, his personal tastes were kept in mind while designing the structure. Constructed following the Muslim style of architecture, the interiors of the hall are elegantly done. Inside the complex of the hall houses a mosque where Shah Jahan could offer prayers.

Zenana Mahal and Bara Patharon ka Mahal are amongst the other palatial structures present inside the Jag Mandir Palace. Rose and jasmine plantations and palm trees cover the garden area. The sight is simply stunning.

Last but not the least, the Jag Mandir Palace has an in-house museum too. As soon as you step inside the museum, you are taken aback to the bygone era. You will get familiar with the history of the island the palace is located on. The most majestic sight of the Jag Mandir Palace is an array of white elephants all sculpted out in white marble. The beauty of of the structure leaves you speechless.