Man Mahal is the largest royal palace in Pushkar, situated on the eastern bank of the sacred Pushkar Lake. Built in the late 16th century by Raja Man Singh I of Amber, it originally served as a royal guesthouse for the king and his entourage during visits to the holy city. Today, it stands as one of Pushkar’s most prominent heritage landmarks.
The architecture of Man Mahal is a blend of traditional Rajasthani and Mughal styles. The palace features:
Intricately carved jharokhas (balconies),
Domed chhatris (pavilions),
Arched corridors and courtyards, and
Frescoes and murals adorning the interiors.
Its strategic location by the lake offers panoramic views of Pushkar Lake and the surrounding temples, making it an ideal spot for photography and quiet reflection.
Today, Man Mahal operates as a heritage hotel under the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC), known as Hotel Sarovar Pushkar. The property offers:
Comfortable guest rooms,
On-site dining serving traditional Rajasthani cuisine,
Lake-facing terraces,
Camel rides, jeep safaris, and cultural experiences for tourists.
Opening Hours: Generally open during daylight hours for visitors. Guests staying at the hotel have round-the-clock access.
Entry Fee: No formal entry fee for visitors who are not hotel guests.
Ideal Visit Duration: 1 to 2 hours is sufficient to explore the palace, enjoy lake views, and take photos.
Best Time to Visit: October to March, especially in the evening when the lake and palace are bathed in golden sunset light.
By Air: The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport, about 150 kilometers away.
By Train: Ajmer Junction is the nearest major railway station, roughly 15 kilometers from Pushkar.
By Road: Pushkar is well connected by road to Ajmer, Jaipur, and other cities. Buses and taxis are readily available.
Once in Pushkar, Man Mahal is easily accessible by foot or rickshaw from the main market or the Brahma Temple area.
Pushkar Lake and its ghats
Brahma Temple
Savitri Temple (hilltop with cable car access)
Varaha Temple, Rangji Temple, and local bazaars
Annual Pushkar Camel Fair grounds
Man Mahal offers a rich combination of royal heritage, architecture, and spiritual ambiance. Whether you visit it for its history, scenic beauty, or as a place to stay, it is a must-see destination that beautifully complements Pushkar’s cultural and religious landscape.