You all know that Jaipur is very famous among the people of India and abroad for its various types of forts, palaces, gardens, and temples. Sheesh Mahal is also one of these which are located in Amer Fort in Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Built with utmost grandeur and architectural beauty, Sheesh Mahal gives us a glimpse of the royal artistry and love for aesthetics.
The palace has been constructed in such a way that along with Rajasthani architecture, the influence of Islamic architecture is also visible in it. This royal palace is a perfect blend of Islamic style and Rajput mix. It is an example of beautiful architecture built with precious stones and glass.
History of Sheesh Mahal
The construction work of Sheesh Mahal was started by Raja Man Singh in the 16th century and was completed in 1727 AD. Jaipur City was also established in the same year. This palace is also known for shooting the iconic song “Jab Pyar Kiya To Darna Kya” from the legendary Bollywood film “Mughal-e-Azam”. It was shot at Sheesh Mahal on legendary actress Madhubala, who played the role of “Anarkali” in the film.
This glass hall has a romantic history: it is said that the Queen of Jaipur was fond of sleeping in the open air under the sky. Due to security reasons, the queen was never allowed to sleep in the open. To enhance her love, the Maharaja got a hall of glass where a flash of light was capable of creating thousands of stars all around and the place was presented to the Queen to cherish her sleeping time luxuries.
Let us tell you that at present entry into this palace is now restricted because the glass decoration was badly damaged by some irresponsible visitors. But you can see the beautiful glass artwork in Sheesh Mahal from outside and can easily see the stars with a flashlight pointed towards the ceiling. Stringent preventive measures have been taken by the government to protect the glass decorations here from external pollution and deliberate damage by intruders.
Architecture of Sheesh Mahal
Sheesh Mahal is located in the palatial complex of Amer Fort, Jaipur. The entire palace is constructed on a total of forty pillars and all these are decorated with thousands of glass pieces in an excellent decorative manner. In the Imperial era, the king and his family are said to have used the palace as their winter residence. Apart from its beauty, the palace was also used to maintain heat, especially in winter.
The walls and ceiling of Sheesh Mahal are carved with exquisite paintings and glass mosaics. The palace’s glasswork is ingeniously placed. When just two candles are lit, the reflection transforms their light into a dazzling display of a thousand stars. This stunning effect provides a glimpse into the advanced architectural expertise in India at that time. The glasswork’s beauty and clever design create an enchanting optical illusion. Sheesh Mahal exemplifies the remarkable craftsmanship and artistry of its era.
The beauty of its architecture lies not only in its glass settings around the walls, pillars, and ceilings but also in how these glass pieces are placed where images of thousands of candles are formed when just two candles are lit inside the room. The architecture of Sheesh Mahal is a unique blend of science and aesthetics. The palace attracts thousands of tourists throughout the year for its beauty and magnificent glass decorations.
Location of Sheesh Mahal
- Sheesh Mahal is located in Amer Fort in Devisinghpura on Amer Road.
Entry Timing of Sheesh Mahal
- The timings to visit Sheesh Mahal are from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Entry Fees of Sheesh Mahal
- To visit Sheesh Mahal, the entry fee is Rs 10 for Indians and Rs 50 (Per Person) is charged for foreigners.
Let us tell you that separate fees have been imposed for Indians and foreigners for carrying a still camera in this palace, which is as follows –
- Rs 50 for Still Camera (Indians)
- Rs 70 for Still Camera (Foreigners)
- Rs 100 for Video Camera (Indians)
- Rs 100 for Video Camera (Foreigners)
Note: You can see this palace only from the outside; you are not allowed to enter the palace’s rooms.
Near Places to Visit of Sheesh Mahal
- Jal Mahal
- Amber Palace
- Panna Meena Ka Kund
- Jaigarh Fort
- 1135 Ad (Restaurant)
The best time to visit Sheesh Mahal
- You can visit Sheesh Mahal in the winter season in November to February. This is the best time to visit here.
FAQs on Sheesh Mahal Jaipur
Q.1. Where is Sheesh Mahal located?
Ans: Sheesh Mahal is located within the Amer Fort complex in Jaipur, Rajasthan.
Q.2. Who built the Sheesh Mahal in Jaipur?
Ans: The Sheesh Mahal at Amer Fort was built by Raja Man Singh I in the 17th century.
Q.3. What is the glass palace of Jaipur famous for?
Ans: The glass palace of Jaipur, known as Sheesh Mahal, is famous for its dazzling mirror-work that creates the illusion of thousands of stars when lit by candles.
Q.4. Why is Sheesh Mahal’s entry restricted now?
Ans: The entry to Sheesh Mahal is now restricted as some of the intricate glasswork and mirrors were damaged by irresponsible visitors.
Q.5. What is the entry ticket price for Sheesh Mahal?
Ans: The entry ticket price is Rs 10 for Indians and Rs 50 for foreigners to visit Sheesh Mahal. Additional camera fees apply.
Q.6. Which Bollywood song was shot at Sheesh Mahal?
Ans: The song “Jab Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya” from Mughal-E-Azam was famously shot at the Sheesh Mahal on actress Madhubala.
Q.7. When is the best time to visit Sheesh Mahal?
Ans: The best time to visit is in the winter months from November to February when the weather is cool and pleasant.
