Jantar Mantar Observatory: India's Ancient "Computer"

📍 Jantar Mantar Observatory in Jaipur, Rajasthan, is India’s most significant and best-preserved historical astronomical site. It also inspired the design of Monument Valley! Built in the early 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II—a genius polymath and key figure in the Mughal court—this observatory is one of five he constructed across India (Jaipur’s is the largest). 🔭 The Name & Purpose "Jantar Mantar" comes from Sanskrit: Jantar = "instrument/machine" ⚙️ Mantar = "calculate/formula" 🧮 → Literally, a "calculating machine"! The observatory houses 19 fixed astronomical instruments, including the world’s largest stone sundial (Samrat Yantra). During June/July full moons, locals gather here to predict rainfall 🌧️ and crop yields 🌽 using these ancient tools. 🌍 UNESCO World Heritage Site (2010) 🏛️ Architectural Marvels: A fusion of Greek, Islamic, and Hindu astronomy. Built from local stone and marble—no metal parts! ℹ️ Visitor Info 🕘 Hours: Daily, 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM 🎟️ Tickets: Indians: 40 INR (adults), 15 INR (students). Foreigners: 200 INR (adults), 100 INR (students). 🎧 Audio Guide (Chinese): 150 INR. 📍 Address: Tripoliya Bazaar, Near City Palace, Jaipur 302020 #India #Jaipur #UNESCO #Astronomy #HiddenGems