A man sitting by the roadside with vermilion smeared on his forehead, flaunting his array of cards and his trust-worthy parrot. Is this all astronomy includes? Is knowledge of life and death the only focus of astronomy?
The answer is definitely no. Astronomy also has a scientific dimension, best explored through some of the best astronomical observatories in India.
Jantar Mantar reveals the thirst for scientific knowledge in India during past ages. It is one of the five observatories built by Maharajah Sawai Jai Singh II in 1724, located on Parliament Street, south of Connaught Place, New Delhi.
The term 'Jantar Mantar' comes from the Sanskrit ‘Yantra Mantra’, meaning instruments and formulae—literally 'instruments with magic'.
Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II built this observatory to revise calendars and astronomical tables, assigned by Mughal Emperor Muhammad Shah. The primary purpose was to prepare astronomical tables and predict celestial movements.
Today, Jantar Mantar also serves as a venue for political gatherings, rallies, and major public events. Delhi sightseeing remains incomplete without visiting this historical celestial clock, reflecting India’s early scientific ingenuity.
This unique masterpiece remained operational for only seven years, with observations used to compile the Zij Muhammad Shahi tables. Interestingly, it featured on the logo of the 1982 Asian Games.
The Jantar Mantar represents a perfect blend of mathematical precision and historical grandeur. Its curves and angles attract photographers and painters alike, offering stunning visuals for even rookie photographers.
Main attractions of Jantar Mantar:
Samrat Yantra
The most important astronomical instrument here, also called the 'Prince of Dials'. This colossal 70-foot triangle was built to measure time with precision, determine the sun’s location, and calculate exact hours, minutes, and seconds.
Misra Yantra
Designed to determine the shortest and longest days of the year, it consists of five pillars used to ascertain noon across different global locations. Its name reflects multiple instruments in one.
Jai Prakash Yantra
This consists of a pair of hemispherical bowls with concave marble surfaces, used to determine the sun’s position during the equinox. Light enters a hole only on 21st March, marking the vernal equinox.
Nearby Attractions from Jantar Mantar
India Gate (2.8 km), Red Fort (7 km), and Qutub Minar (13.4 km) are popular nearby historical sites to explore.
When to Reach
October to March is the ideal time to visit, when weather is pleasant. The observatory is open daily from 6 am to 6 pm.
How to Reach
Delhi has an international airport well-connected nationally and internationally. From the airport, auto or taxi rides to Connaught Place (Delhi’s major commercial center) will lead to Jantar Mantar sightseeing.
Enhance your trip with a blend of entertainment and learning. Visit Jantar Mantar to witness the brilliance of Indian architectural and scientific heritage.
