Jantar Mantar New Delhi
An 18th-century astronomical observatory in Delhi featuring 13 colossal stone instruments designed to measure time and track celestial bodies.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Instruments are best viewed
Jantar Mantar New Delhi
Best Time
Instruments are best viewed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An 18th-century astronomical observatory in Delhi featuring 13 colossal stone instruments designed to measure time and track celestial bodies.
"A fascinating experience blending history, science, and architecture, showcasing India's advanced knowledge."
🎯 Hire a Guide
To truly understand the scientific marvels, a guide is highly recommended.
📱 Use QR Interpretation
QR codes offer detailed info on instruments, enhancing your understanding.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Samrat Yantra
Central Courtyard
The world's largest sundial, a colossal structure that still accurately tells time.
Ram Yantra
North Section
A fascinating cylindrical instrument used to measure altitude and azimuth of celestial bodies.
Jai Prakash
Central Courtyard
A hemispherical instrument that maps the celestial sphere, offering a unique perspective.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the Instruments
Timing is Key for Clarity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Hire a Guide
To truly understand the scientific marvels, a guide is highly recommended.
📱 Use QR Interpretation
QR codes offer detailed info on instruments, enhancing your understanding.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around a lot on stone surfaces.
📸 Photogenic Spot
Great for heritage and geometric pattern photography.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Hire a Guide
To truly understand the scientific marvels, a guide is highly recommended.
📱 Use QR Interpretation
QR codes offer detailed info on instruments, enhancing your understanding.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around a lot on stone surfaces.
📸 Photogenic Spot
Great for heritage and geometric pattern photography.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer months.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Jantar Mantar New Delhi a fascinating historical site showcasing India's advanced astronomical knowledge. The colossal instruments and unique architecture are highlights, offering a glimpse into 18th-century science. While some note a lack of detailed explanations, improvements like QR codes and better maintenance have enhanced the experience, making it a worthwhile visit for history and science enthusiasts.
"I had no idea how it worked, and no one was around to explain (I did not ask anyone). There is nothing exceptional to see there, but if you are in Delhi and have limited time to visit a new area, you can visit. Also you can spend some good time here. It is an astronomical observatory featuring a collection of unique architectural astronomical instruments."
Trisha Acharjee
"Visited Jantar Mantar recently and it was a fascinating experience. The site is full of massive astronomical instruments built centuries ago, and it’s amazing to see how advanced the science of timekeeping and astronomy was at that period. The architecture is unique, and every structure has its own purpose, which makes it a great spot for history and science lovers.
However, the place could be better maintained and there aren’t many detailed descriptions near the instruments, so it’s best to hire a guide if you want to properly understand everything. The area is spacious and photogenic, perfect for those interested in heritage and learning.
Overall, it was a memorable visit, blending history, science, and architecture all in one place. A must-visit if you are exploring Delhi!"
Samrat Guha
"I visited this place again after almost twelve years, and I was pleasantly surprised by the improvements. Back in 2013, the site was not well maintained and lacked proper interpretation. Now, it is much better cared for, and they have introduced a QR-based interpretation system that really helps visitors understand the significance of the site.
There is also a clean and well-maintained public toilet facility available."
Anuradha Piyadasa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Jantar Mantar New Delhi is conveniently located near Connaught Place. The nearest metro station is Rajiv Chowk (Yellow and Blue Lines), from where it's a short walk. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are also readily available.
The closest metro station is Rajiv Chowk, a major interchange for the Yellow and Blue Lines. From there, it's a pleasant walk to the observatory.
While direct parking at Jantar Mantar is limited, there are several paid parking lots available in the Connaught Place area.
Yes, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Ola are a convenient way to reach Jantar Mantar, with drop-off points near Connaught Place.
Numerous DTC (Delhi Transport Corporation) buses ply routes that stop near Connaught Place, making it accessible via public bus services.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees are ₹15 for Indian citizens and ₹200 for foreign nationals.
Jantar Mantar is open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM, allowing ample time for exploration.
Tickets can typically be purchased at the venue. Advance booking is usually not required, but it's always good to check for any special advisories.
Information on specific child entry fees can vary; it's advisable to inquire at the ticket counter upon arrival.
Check with the Delhi tourism authorities or at the Jantar Mantar ticket counter to see if any tourism passes include entry to this site.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's famous for its 13 monumental astronomical instruments built in the 18th century, showcasing ancient Indian astronomical knowledge.
A visit typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on your interest in astronomy and whether you hire a guide.
Yes, guides are available at the site. Hiring one is highly recommended to understand the complex instruments.
The site has large stone structures and uneven paths, which may pose challenges for wheelchair users. It's best to inquire about specific accessibility features.
Recent improvements include clean public toilets. Information is provided via a QR-based interpretation system.
📸 📸 Photography
The geometric patterns of the instruments, especially the Samrat Yantra, offer excellent photographic opportunities. Capture the scale and unique architecture.
Photography is generally allowed, but check for any specific restrictions on tripods or professional equipment.
Early morning or late afternoon provides softer light, reducing harsh shadows and enhancing the architectural details.
Drone usage is typically prohibited at historical monuments to ensure safety and preservation.
Experiment with low angles to emphasize the height of the instruments and wide shots to capture the entire complex.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more engaging for kids, consider hiring a guide who can explain the concepts in a simplified, storytelling manner. The QR code system can also be used to show them visuals and interactive information. Make it a treasure hunt to find specific instruments or guess what they were used for. Remember to bring water and snacks, and ensure comfortable footwear for little explorers.
🤓 History & Science Buffs
Take your time to explore each instrument, read the information provided (or hire a guide for deeper insights), and marvel at the engineering. Consider visiting during different times of the day to see how the shadows cast by the sundials change. This site offers a unique blend of historical context and scientific application that is rarely found elsewhere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Genius of Maharaja Jai Singh II
Unlike many historical sites that are purely relics of the past, Jantar Mantar remains a functional astronomical observatory. The instruments, built with stone and masonry, were designed with remarkable precision to measure time, track celestial bodies, and predict eclipses. The sheer scale and ingenuity of these structures, built without modern technology, continue to astound visitors and scholars alike.
Recent efforts have been made to enhance the visitor experience. The introduction of a QR-based interpretation system provides detailed information about each instrument, making it more accessible to those without a guide. This blend of historical significance and modern interpretation makes Jantar Mantar a unique educational and cultural destination.
Exploring the Instruments
Other key instruments include the Ram Yantra, a cylindrical structure used to measure altitude and azimuth, and the Jai Prakash, a hemispherical bowl that maps the celestial sphere. Visitors can also find instruments designed to observe the zenith, determine the declination of celestial bodies, and track the equinoxes. The intricate design and placement of these structures demonstrate a profound understanding of celestial mechanics.
Walking through Jantar Mantar feels like stepping into a giant, open-air science museum. The sheer scale of the instruments is impressive, and understanding their purpose offers a fascinating glimpse into the scientific advancements of ancient India. It’s a place where history, science, and architecture converge, offering a truly unique learning experience.
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