Jantar Mantar Delhi

Jantar Mantar Delhi: History, Facts, Timings, Ticket Price & Travel Guide 2025

Located in the heart of New Delhi, near Connaught Place, the Jantar Mantar is one of India’s most fascinating historical monuments. Built in the 18th century by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Jaipur, this astronomical observatory is a fine example of India’s scientific brilliance and architectural mastery.

The observatory was constructed to observe celestial movements and study the universe with incredible precision — a feat that astonished even modern scientists. Today, Jantar Mantar Delhi attracts thousands of visitors every year, both for its scientific heritage and its role as a symbol of freedom and democracy in India.

🌞 Jantar Mantar Delhi Overview

The Jantar Mantar Delhi is part of a series of five observatories built by Maharaja Jai Singh II in cities like Jaipur, Ujjain, Varanasi, and Mathura. Among all, the Delhi observatory stands out for its grandeur and scale.

The term “Jantar Mantar” comes from Sanskrit words — ‘Yantra’ meaning instrument and ‘Mantra’ meaning formula. Together, it translates to “instrument for calculation.”

This site is home to 13 astronomical instruments, each designed for different types of astronomical measurements such as timekeeping, predicting eclipses, and tracking celestial bodies.

🧭 Jantar Mantar Delhi History

Jantar Mantar Delhi was built in 1724 by Maharaja Jai Singh II, who was a keen astronomer and mathematician. His goal was to create instruments that could precisely record the movement of the sun, moon, and planets — at a time when telescopes were still rare in India.

The instruments at Jantar Mantar represent a fusion of science, mathematics, and architecture, and showcase India’s early contributions to astronomy. Over centuries, this site has also evolved into a symbol of democratic rights, being used as a space for peaceful protests and public gatherings.

🏗️ Architecture of Jantar Mantar Delhi

The architecture of Jantar Mantar reflects a deep understanding of geometry and celestial mechanics. Built using local materials like stone, brick, and plaster, the observatory’s instruments were designed to calculate celestial movements with great accuracy.

Some of the key instruments include:

1. Samrat Yantra

Known as the ‘Supreme Instrument’, this giant sundial is capable of measuring time with remarkable accuracy — sometimes to within two seconds! It is one of the largest sundials in the world.

2. Jai Prakash Yantra

This device features concave and convex hemispherical bowls and is used for observing the position of celestial bodies. Visitors can actually stand inside the instrument to see how shadows move across the markings.

3. Misra Yantra

Used to determine the longest and shortest days of the year, and the exact moment of noon in various cities around the world.

Each of these architectural marvels demonstrates the mathematical genius of Maharaja Jai Singh II and his deep understanding of astronomical science.

🌅 Jantar Mantar Delhi Timings

Visitors can explore Jantar Mantar at their convenience since it is open throughout the week.

🕕 Timings:

• Opens: 6:00 AM
• Closes: 6:00 PM
• Best Time to Visit: November to February (cooler weather and comfortable sightseeing)

💰 Jantar Mantar Delhi Ticket Price / Entry Fee

The entry fee at Jantar Mantar is quite affordable, making it accessible to both domestic and international tourists.

🎟️ Entry Fee Details:

• Indian Visitors: ₹15 per person
• Foreign Tourists: ₹200 per person
• SAARC & BIMSTEC Visitors: ₹15 per person
• Video Filming: ₹25 per person

Children below 15 years can enter free of cost.

🧾 10 Facts About Jantar Mantar Delhi

1. Built by Maharaja Jai Singh II in 1724, who was both a ruler and an astronomer.
2. It is one of five observatories built across India — others are in Jaipur, Ujjain, Varanasi, and Mathura.
3. The Samrat Yantra is one of the world’s largest sundials.
4. It was designed to measure time, predict eclipses, and study planetary positions.
5. Jantar Mantar’s instruments are non-telescopic but geometrically precise.
6. It once played a vital role in ancient Indian astronomical studies.
7. It is now also a symbol of democracy, often used for peaceful demonstrations.
8. The site is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
9. Jantar Mantar is surrounded by lush greenery and offers excellent photography opportunities.
10. It has been featured in numerous documentaries and cultural programs on India’s scientific heritage.

📸 What to Expect at Jantar Mantar Delhi

When you arrive at Jantar Mantar, the first thing you’ll notice is its vibrant red sandstone instruments contrasting beautifully against the lush green lawns.

You can:

• Admire the magnificent instruments that record not just time but also planetary positions.
• Capture memorable photos against this unique architectural backdrop.
• Explore nearby attractions like Connaught Place and Janpath Market, famous for their shopping and dining experiences.

🚇 How to Reach Jantar Mantar Delhi

Jantar Mantar is easily accessible via road and metro.

• Nearest Metro Station: Patel Chowk (Yellow Line)
• By Car/Cab: Easily reachable from Connaught Place and India Gate.
• From Airport: Take the Airport Express to New Delhi Metro Station, then a short rickshaw ride to Jantar Mantar.

🕒 Required Time for Visit

Plan to spend approximately 2–3 hours exploring the site and understanding the instruments. This time allows for relaxed sightseeing and photography.

⚠️ Restricted Items

Visitors are advised not to carry restricted items such as:
Weapons, sharp objects, alcohol, drugs, pets, skateboards, drones, or large backpacks.

🎯 Tips for Visiting Jantar Mantar Delhi

• Visit during early morning hours or weekdays to avoid large crowds.
• Wear comfortable clothes and carry water during summer months.
• Follow all site rules and respect the monument’s historical importance.
• Photography is allowed but check for restricted zones before capturing videos.
• Consider hiring a local guide to understand the scientific significance of each instrument.

🧳 Nearby Tourist Attractions

Make the most of your Delhi trip by visiting these nearby spots:

• India Gate – Iconic war memorial and national pride.
• Red Fort – Mughal-era fort symbolizing India’s history.
• Humayun’s Tomb – A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Qutub Minar – One of the tallest brick minarets in the world.
• Jama Masjid – Majestic mosque built by Shah Jahan.
• Lodhi Gardens – Peaceful green space perfect for relaxation.
• Akshardham Temple – A modern architectural masterpiece.

🧠 Why Visit Jantar Mantar Delhi?

Whether you’re a history buff, science enthusiast, or simply love exploring unique landmarks, Jantar Mantar Delhi offers an unforgettable experience. It beautifully blends ancient astronomy with art and architecture, showcasing India’s early scientific innovation.

The site isn’t just about old instruments — it’s a living reminder of how knowledge, culture, and freedom have always been at the heart of India’s civilization.

💡 Travel Inspiration – How to Explore a Place by Yourself

Exploring a place solo can be a rewarding experience. Try these travel ideas:

• Take yourself out for a local meal.
• Learn public transportation routes.
• Visit nearby observatories or museums.
• Join a city walking tour or local event.
• Capture photos at gardens and heritage sites.

🗺️ Final Thoughts

The Jantar Mantar Delhi is more than just an ancient observatory — it’s a symbol of India’s scientific genius, a heritage monument, and a peaceful protest site that stands proudly amid the bustle of New Delhi.

Its red-hued instruments, green surroundings, and fascinating geometry make it one of the most photogenic and educational places in India. So, next time you’re in Delhi, take a few hours to step into this celestial time machine and witness how India’s astronomers once read the stars!

✅ Quick Summary Table

In short:
Jantar Mantar Delhi is not just a relic of the past — it’s a celebration of India’s scientific, architectural, and cultural spirit that continues to inspire travelers from across the world.