Jantar Mantar

Jantar Mantar is an observatory and one of the popular tourist attractions in Varanasi. It was constructed by Jai Singh, the Maharaja of Jaipur in 1737. He was a follower of science and technology and his passion towards astronomy led to the establishment of this huge building.

For constructing the best observatory in the region, he sent his scholars abroad to study designs and construction of numerous foreign observatories. Various manuals on astronomy brought by the scholars led to the construction of Jantar Mantar at Varanasi in sync with Delhi, Mathura, Ujjain and Jaipur observatories.

The building was constructed with the aim of measuring the local time and altitude of the place, the declination of Sun, stars and planets and to determine eclipses. Housing several masonry instruments to record the motion, speed and properties of stars and planets, and study astronomy, the building shows accurate results until now. The site is renowned for its multiple structures in various shapes that have their specialised function for astronomical measurements.

Since its establishment, many Yantras are associated within the structure for offering accurate measurements on astronomy. Disha Yantra, Dhruva Yantra, Digansha Yantra, Krantivritta Yantra, Prakash Yantra, Ram Yantra and Samrat Yantra, being the prominent Yantras are still used for various calculations.

An example of complex architectural styles, the structure attracts many astronomers, scholars, engineers, architects and scientists along with travellers for its perfect combination of geometric forms. With the availability of taxis, cycle rickshaws and auto-rickshaws, travellers can easily reach Jantar Mantar from any part of the destination.