Credit: Prashant Chouhan
History and architecture
Jahaz Mahal, or Ship Mahal, on a narrow strip of land between two large water tanks, is an ancient place that is at a distance of 1.5km from the Mandu bus stand.
It was built in the 15th century by Ghiyas-ud-din emperor, son of Mohammed Shah, for the accommodation of a large harem of around 15,000 women who also served as his bodyguards.
Jahaz Mahal is an amalgamation of Afghan, Mughal, Hindu, and Mesopotamian styles. It is rectangular in shape and has two floors. 120 m long and 15 m wide, the palace has open pavilions, balconies, and terraces. A spacious terrace on the site gives a view of the twin lakes, Munj Talao and Kapur Talao.
The lakes give an impression of anchored ships, especially during the monsoon. The palace has a pool on the ground floor that is surrounded on three sides by colonnades; a similar structure is on the first floor and is fed by a water channel. Intricate water channels are a classic example of Mandu architecture
Pavilions on the first floor, the juxtaposition of canonical and dome roofs add overall charm to the Jahaz mahal. The entrance from the east is designed in Gothic style. Large rooms on the ground floor are interconnected by corridors. The harems were constructed in such a way that the eyes of common men don’t fall on the women, but at the same time, women have full autonomy.
Timing
6 am -7 am
Entry fees
Indian- Rs 25
Foreigner – 100
Video camera – Rs 25
Location
Its located 1.5 km from the mandu bus stand.