मन महल वेधशाला

The Man Mahal Observatory, also known as the Jantar Mantar of Varanasi, is an important historical and scientific landmark situated near the Dashashwamedh Ghat. It was built in the early 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II of Jaipur, a great patron of astronomy and science, who constructed similar observatories in Delhi, Jaipur, Ujjain, and Mathura.

The observatory was designed to study the movement of the sun, moon, planets, and stars with remarkable precision, long before the advent of modern instruments. It houses large masonry instruments made of stone and plaster, such as the Samrat Yantra (sundial), Digamsa Yantra, and other devices used for measuring time, altitude, and celestial positions. These instruments reflect the advanced scientific knowledge and astronomical traditions of India during that period.

Located inside the Man Mahal Palace complex, the observatory not only served as a center for astronomical research but also demonstrated the harmony between science, spirituality, and daily life in Varanasi—a city where the study of the cosmos was always tied to religious rituals and calendars.

Although some instruments are now weathered with time, the site remains an important reminder of India’s rich scientific heritage. Today, visitors can walk through the observatory, understand its working with the help of guides, and admire the vision of Maharaja Jai Singh, who blended art, architecture, and science.

For tourists, the Man Mahal Observatory offers a unique perspective of Varanasi beyond its temples and ghats, showcasing the city’s historic role as a center of knowledge and learning.