Amber Palaces Jaipur

The Diwan-I-Khas or hall of the Private Audience is decorated with beautiful mirror work and has intricate carvings on the walls and ceilings. It also has miniature murals made of the colored glasses depicting Radha and Krishna, which resembles the stained glass windows of European cathedrals. The Sukh Niwas or the Hall of Pleasure, is located opposite to the Diwan-I-Khas. The air-conditioning effect created by the cool breeze blowing across the channels of waters is the special feature of this hall. Adjacent t the Sukh Niwas is the Jai Mandir or the Hall of Victory, which displays a fine blend of Hindu-Muslim architecture at its best. Its houses the famous Sheesh Mahal or the Hall of Mirrors, which is totally encrusted with small mirrors. When a candle is lit here with closed doors and windows it seem as if stars are twinkling in the sky. Above the Sheesh Mahal is the Jas Mandir or the Hall of Glory, has a beautiful Jali work of the alabaster windows from where scenic view of Maota Lake and Kesar Kyari can be enjoyed. Behind the palaces there are well maintained gardens, where lies the Zenana or women apartments.

Man Singh’s dozen queens lived here and each of them had a separate suite. These suites are beautifully decorated with murals of Radha and Krishna. There are private chambers of the queens with windows having latticed screen through which the ladies could watch the proceedings of the royal court in private. From the back of the courtyard, there is a path leading to the old Amber town. Standing nearby are the chhatris dedicated to the rulers of Amber. The Archaeological Museum is also located nearby.