Jantar Mantar Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance in Jaipur

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Jantar Mantar is an enduring testament to India’s historic achievements in astronomy and architecture. Built in the 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, these observatories were designed to facilitate advanced celestial observations using monumental masonry instruments. Of the five authentic Jantar Mantar sites in India—Jaipur, New Delhi, Ujjain, Varanasi, and Mathura—the Jaipur observatory stands out as the largest and best preserved, meriting recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (UNESCO - Jantar Mantar, Jaipur; Astronomical Heritage).

This guide provides detailed information on visiting hours, tickets, guided tours, and accessibility at Jantar Mantar, as well as insights into its scientific and cultural significance. It also addresses common misconceptions—specifically, the inaccurate claim of a Jantar Mantar observatory in Milwaukee, USA, and guides astronomy enthusiasts towards local alternatives (Milwaukee Astronomical Society Observatory; Yerkes Observatory).

Table of Contents

Historical Overview of Jantar Mantar

Jantar Mantar refers to five astronomical observatories constructed between 1724 and the 1730s in India by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II (Wikipedia - Jantar Mantar). Jai Singh II, dissatisfied with the accuracy of existing astronomical data, commissioned these complexes to improve timekeeping, eclipse prediction, and celestial tracking.

The five sites are:

  • Jaipur, Rajasthan (1728–1734): The most complete and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring 19 instruments.
  • New Delhi (1724): The first to be built, housing 13 instruments.
  • Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh (1725): Known for its prime meridian status in India.
  • Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (1737): Built on the Man Mahal terrace, overlooking the Ganges.
  • Mathura, Uttar Pradesh (1730s): Now in ruins, but historically significant.

(UNESCO - Jantar Mantar, Jaipur; Ancient Origins - Jantar Mantar)


Key Instruments and Design Principles

Jantar Mantar observatories are renowned for their large, fixed masonry instruments, many of which are unique in scale and precision. Instruments are based on three classical coordinate systems: horizon-zenith local, equatorial, and ecliptic. Notable examples include:

  • Samrat Yantra: The world’s largest stone sundial (Jaipur), measuring time to within two seconds (Trip101 - Jantar Mantar Jaipur).
  • Jai Prakash Yantra: Hemispherical devices for determining the position of celestial bodies.
  • Ram Yantra: Cylindrical structures for measuring altitude and azimuth.
  • Misra Yantra: Unique to Delhi, used to determine solstices and time in various cities.
  • Other Instruments: Dakshin Bhitti Yantra, Kranti Yantra, Digamsa Yantra.

Each instrument was meticulously calibrated to local latitude and longitude, reflecting a sophisticated understanding of mathematics and astronomy (Culture and Heritage).


Cultural and Scientific Significance

Jantar Mantar observatories symbolize the fusion of science, mathematics, and architecture during a period of remarkable intellectual activity in India. Jai Singh II’s vision incorporated influences from Indian, Islamic, and European astronomy, resulting in instruments capable of measuring time, predicting eclipses, and compiling astronomical tables—all without telescopic aids (Astronomical Heritage).

The Jaipur Jantar Mantar was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010 for its outstanding universal value and innovative approach to pre-modern astronomy.


Visiting Jantar Mantar: Hours, Tickets, and Tours

Jaipur

  • Location: Gangori Bazaar, J.D.A. Market, Pink City, Jaipur
  • Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM daily
  • Entry Fee: INR 50 (Indians), INR 200 (foreigners), student discounts available
  • Visitor Facilities: Restrooms, drinking water, souvenir shops, visitor center
  • Guided Tours: Available in multiple languages; audio guides can be rented (Outlook Traveller)

Delhi

  • Location: Sansad Marg, Connaught Place, New Delhi
  • Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
  • Entry Fee: INR 25 (Indians), INR 300 (foreigners)
  • Accessibility: Close to Patel Chowk Metro Station; public transport recommended
  • Guided Tours: Offered on-site (Delhi Tourism)

Ujjain, Varanasi, Mathura

  • Hours and Fees: Vary by site; check local tourism sites for up-to-date information.

Accessibility and Visitor Facilities

  • Mobility: Major pathways are accessible, but some areas may be challenging for visitors with mobility impairments due to historic design.
  • Photography: Permitted; use of tripods may require permission.
  • Amenities: Jaipur and Delhi provide visitor centers; restrooms and drinking water available; food and drink not permitted inside observatories.

Addressing the Milwaukee Misconception

There is no authentic Jantar Mantar observatory in Milwaukee or anywhere in the United States. All official Jantar Mantar sites are located in India (Astronomical Heritage; The Vintage News - Jantar Mantar). Erroneous references may arise from mislabeling on maps or cultural events, but no permanent or historical Jantar Mantar structure exists outside India (Mapcarta - Jantar-Mantar).


Astronomy in Milwaukee: Local Observatories

Milwaukee offers rich opportunities for astronomical exploration through local institutions:

Milwaukee Astronomical Society Observatory

  • Address: 18850 W Observatory Rd, New Berlin, WI 53146 (milwaukeeastro.org)
  • Hours: Monthly open houses during spring–fall; check the official calendar.
  • Admission: Usually free; donations welcomed.
  • Experience: Guided tours, stargazing sessions, community events.

Yerkes Observatory

  • Address: 373 W. Geneva Street, Williams Bay, WI 53191 (yerkesobservatory.org)
  • Hours: Guided tours on select days; advance ticket purchase recommended.
  • Admission: $10–$25, with discounts available.
  • Experience: Home to the world’s largest refracting telescope, behind-the-scenes tours, and an arboretum.

(Milwaukee Astronomical Society Observatory; Yerkes Observatory)


Visitor Tips and Nearby Attractions

  • Best Time to Visit: October–March in India for pleasant weather; early mornings or late afternoons to avoid crowds.
  • Combine Your Trip: In Jaipur, pair your visit with Amber Fort, City Palace, and Hawa Mahal. In Delhi, consider Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and India Gate.
  • Travel Prepared: Check official websites for current hours, fees, and any special events.
  • Etiquette: Avoid touching or climbing on instruments; respect site rules and cultural significance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the visiting hours for Jantar Mantar in Jaipur and Delhi?
A: Jaipur: 9:00 AM–4:30 PM; Delhi: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM (confirm before travel).

Q: What are the ticket prices?
A: Jaipur: INR 50 (Indians), INR 200 (foreigners); Delhi: INR 25 (Indians), INR 300 (foreigners).

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in Jaipur and Delhi; audio guides also available.

Q: Is Jantar Mantar accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Main areas are accessible, though some pathways may pose challenges.

Q: Does a Jantar Mantar exist in Milwaukee?
A: No; all authentic observatories are in India.


Summary and Recommendations

Jantar Mantar is a beacon of India’s scientific and cultural heritage, particularly at the Jaipur and Delhi sites, which draw visitors worldwide. With accurate ticketing, hours, and facility information, travelers can plan a meaningful visit. The clarification that no Jantar Mantar exists outside India, particularly in Milwaukee, reinforces the uniqueness of these monuments (The Vintage News - Jantar Mantar).

For astronomy enthusiasts in Milwaukee, the Milwaukee Astronomical Society Observatory and Yerkes Observatory provide educational experiences, though unrelated to the Jantar Mantar legacy (Milwaukee Astronomical Society Observatory; Yerkes Observatory).

To stay informed on visiting hours and events, consult official resources and consider using the Audiala app for guided tours and updates.


References


Visit The Most Interesting Places In Milwaukee

A Beam Of Sun To Shake The Sky
A Beam Of Sun To Shake The Sky
A Place To Sit
A Place To Sit
Aaron Monument
Aaron Monument
Acqua Grylli
Acqua Grylli
Al Mcguire Center
Al Mcguire Center
All In The Air At Once
All In The Air At Once
|
  All Saints' Episcopal Cathedral Complex
| All Saints' Episcopal Cathedral Complex
American Family Field
American Family Field
American System-Built Homes
American System-Built Homes
|
  America'S Black Holocaust Museum
| America'S Black Holocaust Museum
Ancestor
Ancestor
Angel In A Cage
Angel In A Cage
Argo
Argo
At&T Center
At&T Center
Basilica Of St. Josaphat
Basilica Of St. Josaphat
Bay View Massacre
Bay View Massacre
Bay View Series
Bay View Series
Belle Austin Jacobs Memorial
Belle Austin Jacobs Memorial
Bench-Stone
Bench-Stone
Birds Of Knowledge Of Good And Evil
Birds Of Knowledge Of Good And Evil
Blue Dress Park
Blue Dress Park
Borchert Field
Borchert Field
Boy With Goose
Boy With Goose
Bradley Center
Bradley Center
|
  Brewers' Hill
| Brewers' Hill
|
  Brewers' Hill Mra
| Brewers' Hill Mra
Bridge
Bridge
Bronze Fonz
Bronze Fonz
Buildings 1992
Buildings 1992
Calvary Cemetery
Calvary Cemetery
Cardinal Stritch University
Cardinal Stritch University
Cass Street Park
Cass Street Park
Cathedral Of St. John The Evangelist
Cathedral Of St. John The Evangelist
Celebrating The Arts
Celebrating The Arts
Chase Tower
Chase Tower
Christian Wahl
Christian Wahl
City Yard
City Yard
|
  Cleopatra'S Wedge
| Cleopatra'S Wedge
Compass
Compass
Concordia University Wisconsin
Concordia University Wisconsin
Congregation Beth Israel
Congregation Beth Israel
Connect
Connect
Count Casimir Pulaski
Count Casimir Pulaski
Court Of Honor
Court Of Honor
Dancing Through Life
Dancing Through Life
Dauntless Guardian
Dauntless Guardian
Diana
Diana
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
East Side Commercial Historic District
East Side Commercial Historic District
Eclipse
Eclipse
Eight Stone Lions
Eight Stone Lions
Embrace
Embrace
Emil Blatz Temple Of Music
Emil Blatz Temple Of Music
Erastus B. Wolcott
Erastus B. Wolcott
Family
Family
Fire And Water
Fire And Water
First Unitarian Church
First Unitarian Church
Fiserv Forum
Fiserv Forum
Float
Float
Floating Sculpture No. 3
Floating Sculpture No. 3
Forest Home Cemetery
Forest Home Cemetery
Frederick C. Bogk House
Frederick C. Bogk House
General Douglas Macarthur
General Douglas Macarthur
Gesu Church
Gesu Church
Goethe–Schiller Monument
Goethe–Schiller Monument
Harley-Davidson Museum
Harley-Davidson Museum
Hermes
Hermes
Herzing University
Herzing University
Hilton Milwaukee City Center
Hilton Milwaukee City Center
Historic Third Ward
Historic Third Ward
Holocaust Memorial
Holocaust Memorial
Jacques Marquette
Jacques Marquette
Jantar-Mantar
Jantar-Mantar
Joseph Schlitz Brewing Company
Joseph Schlitz Brewing Company
Juneau Monument
Juneau Monument
Kindred Ties
Kindred Ties
Kneeling Camels
Kneeling Camels
Kumo
Kumo
Lake Park
Lake Park
Lakeshore State Park
Lakeshore State Park
Laureate
Laureate
Leif, The Discoverer
Leif, The Discoverer
|
  Letter Carriers' Monument
| Letter Carriers' Monument
Lloyd Street Grounds
Lloyd Street Grounds
Magic Grove
Magic Grove
Mahatma Gandhi Memorial
Mahatma Gandhi Memorial
Majestic Theatre
Majestic Theatre
Marquette Stadium
Marquette Stadium
Marquette University
Marquette University
Menomonee
Menomonee
Midsummer Carnival Shaft
Midsummer Carnival Shaft
Milwaukee
Milwaukee
Milwaukee Art Museum
Milwaukee Art Museum
Milwaukee City Hall
Milwaukee City Hall
Milwaukee County Historical Society
Milwaukee County Historical Society
Milwaukee County Stadium
Milwaukee County Stadium
Milwaukee County Zoo
Milwaukee County Zoo
Milwaukee-Downer College
Milwaukee-Downer College
Milwaukee Intermodal Station
Milwaukee Intermodal Station
Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport
Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport
Milwaukee Public Museum
Milwaukee Public Museum
Milwaukee School Of Engineering
Milwaukee School Of Engineering
Mo, Ni, Que
Mo, Ni, Que
Mount Mary University
Mount Mary University
Mount Olivet Cemetery
Mount Olivet Cemetery
Music
Music
Olympus
Olympus
On Watch
On Watch
Oops, Missed
Oops, Missed
Orbits
Orbits
Patrick And Beatrice Haggerty Museum Of Art
Patrick And Beatrice Haggerty Museum Of Art
Patrick Cudahy Memorial
Patrick Cudahy Memorial
Pattern
Pattern
Peck Pavilion
Peck Pavilion
Pedestrian Drama
Pedestrian Drama
Peter John
Peter John
Pettit National Ice Center
Pettit National Ice Center
Plankinton–Wells–Water Street Historic District
Plankinton–Wells–Water Street Historic District
Poland
Poland
Quartet
Quartet
Queen Of Sheba
Queen Of Sheba
Rainbow
Rainbow
R.D. Whitehead Monument
R.D. Whitehead Monument
Red Arrow Park
Red Arrow Park
Red Flower Rising
Red Flower Rising
Referee
Referee
Ritual Ii
Ritual Ii
Robert Burns
Robert Burns
Round About
Round About
Ruins X
Ruins X
Sentinels
Sentinels
Soaring
Soaring
Space Game
Space Game
Spanish-American War Soldier
Spanish-American War Soldier
Spirit Of Commerce
Spirit Of Commerce
Spirit Of The Firefighter
Spirit Of The Firefighter
St. Joan Of Arc Chapel
St. Joan Of Arc Chapel
St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Cathedral
St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Cathedral
Statue Of Abraham Lincoln
Statue Of Abraham Lincoln
Statue Of Henry Bergh
Statue Of Henry Bergh
Steel Reborn
Steel Reborn
Steuben Monument
Steuben Monument
Stratiformis
Stratiformis
T. A. Chapman Memorial
T. A. Chapman Memorial
Teamwork
Teamwork
Tending The Fire
Tending The Fire
The Calling
The Calling
The Hill Climber
The Hill Climber
The Last Alarm
The Last Alarm
The Lovers
The Lovers
The Reaper
The Reaper
The Source
The Source
The Victorious Charge
The Victorious Charge
Three Bronze Discs
Three Bronze Discs
Tip
Tip
Tree Of Life
Tree Of Life
Trigon
Trigon
Trio
Trio
Twist For Max
Twist For Max
Unfolding
Unfolding
University Of Wisconsin–Milwaukee
University Of Wisconsin–Milwaukee
University Of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Libraries
University Of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Libraries
Upstart
Upstart
Uptown Triangles
Uptown Triangles
U.S. Bank Center
U.S. Bank Center
Uw–Milwaukee Panther Arena
Uw–Milwaukee Panther Arena
Valentin Blatz Brewing Company
Valentin Blatz Brewing Company
Varsity Theater
Varsity Theater
Vegetative Sculpture I
Vegetative Sculpture I
Vliet Street Commons
Vliet Street Commons
Vogel Hall
Vogel Hall
Walk Like A River
Walk Like A River
|
  Walker'S Point Center For The Arts
| Walker'S Point Center For The Arts
Walkways Through The Wall
Walkways Through The Wall
Washington Monument
Washington Monument
Way Four
Way Four
Wind Leaves
Wind Leaves
Wisconsin Center
Wisconsin Center
Wisconsin Conservatory Of Music
Wisconsin Conservatory Of Music
Wisconsin Lutheran College
Wisconsin Lutheran College
Wisconsin School Of Professional Psychology
Wisconsin School Of Professional Psychology
Wisconsin Workers Memorial
Wisconsin Workers Memorial
Woodland Indian And Whistling Swans
Woodland Indian And Whistling Swans
World War I Memorial Flagpole
World War I Memorial Flagpole
You Rise Above The World
You Rise Above The World
Yount Monument
Yount Monument