JANTAR MANTAR

Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II was a scholar-king with a deep interest in astronomy. Disappointed with the inaccuracies of existing astronomical tables, he commissioned observatories in Delhi, Jaipur, Ujjain, Mathura, and Varanasi. The Jaipur Jantar Mantar, built between 1728 and 1734, is the largest and most well-preserved of them all.

Main Instruments at Jantar Mantar Jaipur

1. Samrat Yantra (Supreme Instrument)

   • A massive triangular sundial, 27 meters high.

   • Measures time with incredible precision — up to 2 seconds.

   • Has a shadow-casting gnomon that moves with the sun.

2. Jai Prakash Yantra

   • Two complementary hemispherical structures.

   • Used to determine the positions of celestial objects using a system of markings and a suspended ring.

3. Ram Yantra

   • Two open cylindrical structures used to observe the altitude and azimuth of celestial bodies.

4. Narivalaya Yantra

   • Consists of two dials facing north and south.

   • Measures time based on the sun’s position in both hemispheres.

5. Chakra Yantra

   • Helps determine the declination of the sun and other celestial bodies.

6. Rashi Valaya Yantra

   • A set of twelve instruments for observing zodiac signs and planetary positions.

Scientific Significance

The instruments demonstrate the fusion of:

• Hindu astronomy (Surya Siddhanta)

• Islamic astronomy (Zij-i Ulugh Beg)

• European and Persian observational techniques

The observatory was not just a scientific endeavor but also had a religious and astrological role in guiding state affairs.

Design & Architecture

• Built using stone, marble, and bronze.

• No optical aids were used — purely based on shadows and angles.

• Each structure is immovable, built with precise orientation and geometric calculations.

Why Visit Jantar Mantar?

• A rare blend of art, science, and history.

• A must-visit for astronomy lovers and history enthusiasts.

• Excellent for educational tours and photography.