Swargasuli Tower History, Hidden Gems, Best Time to Visit and Photography
Located at
Jaipur
Rajasthan
Swargasuli Tower, also known as Isar Lat, is an iconic victory tower located in the heart of Jaipur. Built by Maharaja Ishwari Singh in 1749, it was initially constructed to commemorate his victory over the Mughal empire. The tower stands at 42 meters (138 feet) and is one of the tallest structures in Jaipur. The tower features a spiral staircase leading to the top, offering a panoramic view of the city, including major landmarks like Hawa Mahal, City Palace, and Jantar Mantar.
The architectural style of the Swargasuli Tower is a blend of Rajput and Mughal influences, with detailed carvings and a minaret-style design. It a significant symbol of Jaipur royal history and a popular tourist spot.
History
Swargasuli Tower was constructed during the reign of Maharaja Ishwari Singh of Jaipur as a part of his victory celebrations. The name Swargasuli means Heaven Pillar or Tower to Heaven, reflecting the belief that the tower reached the heavens due to its height. Initially, it was used for astronomical purposes and as a signal tower. The spiral staircase inside the tower was historically used to guide travelers and traders entering the city. Today, it stands as a historical monument and a vantage point offering stunning views of Jaipur.
Best Time to Visit
- Ideal Months: October to March (when Jaipur weather is cooler and pleasant).
- Avoid: The summer months (April to June) when it can be extremely hot.
- Timing: The tower is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Nearest Attractions
- Hawa Mahal (1 km): The famous Palace of Winds, known for its intricate architecture.
- City Palace (1 km): A historic royal residence that combines Mughal and Rajput architecture.
- Jantar Mantar (1 km): An astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh II.
- Albert Hall Museum (2 km): A museum housing a vast collection of artifacts.
- Jaipur Zoo (2 km): A family-friendly spot to see various animals.
Things to Do
- Climb the Spiral Staircase: The main attraction is the staircase that leads to the top of the tower, providing breathtaking views of Jaipur.
- Photography: Capture panoramic shots of Jaipur from the top of the tower.
- Visit the Nearby Attractions: Explore the Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, and City Palace, all within walking distance.
- Shopping: Explore the nearby Johari Bazaar for traditional jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts.
Adventures
- Photography: The panoramic views of Jaipur from the top of Swargasuli are perfect for capturing both the city historic architecture and modern-day hustle.
- Exploring Jaipur Old City: Wander through the nearby Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar for a cultural adventure.
- Street Food Exploration: Jaipur is famous for its vibrant street food scene; enjoy exploring the local food culture.
Packing Items
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the nearby bazaars and attractions.
- Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for protection against the sun.
- Water bottle to stay hydrated while climbing the tower.
- Camera or smartphone to capture the beautiful views from the top of the tower.
- Light jacket if visiting during cooler months.
Budget
- Entry Fee:
- ?10 (Indian nationals)
- ?50 (Foreign nationals)
- Transportation: Local transportation such as auto-rickshaws or taxis costs around ?50–?200, depending on the distance.
- Food: Street food like pani puri and samosas will cost ?20–?50. Mid-range meals in restaurants range from ?200–?1,000.
Hidden Gem
- Panoramic Views of Jaipur: The top of Swargasuli Tower offers one of the best views of the city, which is often less crowded than other famous spots like Hawa Mahal or Amer Fort.
Photography
- Best Shots: The view from the top is perfect for capturing the cityscape.
- Tips: Early morning or late afternoon provides the best natural lighting for photography.
Safety Rules
- Climbing the Tower: The spiral staircase is narrow and steep, so hold onto the railing for safety.
- No Smoking or Eating Inside the tower.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry water, especially if visiting in hot weather.
- Keep an Eye on Your Belongings: Being a popular tourist spot, it is best to keep your personal items secure.
Famous Food in Jaipur
- Vegetarian:
- Dal Baati Churma (A traditional Rajasthani dish)
- Gatte ki Sabzi
- Pyaaz Kachori (Famous local snack)
- Non-Vegetarian:
- Laal Maas (Spicy mutton curry)
- Chicken Tikka
- Sweets:
- Ghevar (Traditional Rajasthani sweet)
- Mawa Kachori
Vegan, Vegetarian & Non-Vegetarian Restaurants Nearby
- Vegan:
- Anokhi Café: Known for organic and vegan-friendly options.
- Vegetarian:
- LMB (Laxmi Mishtan Bhandar): Famous for traditional vegetarian dishes.
- Non-Vegetarian:
- Handi Restaurant: Known for its Laal Maas and other Mughlai delicacies.
Entry Fee
- Swargasuli Tower:
- ?10 (Indians)
- ?50 (Foreigners)
How to Reach
- By Air: Jaipur International Airport (13 km from Swargasuli Tower).
- By Train: Jaipur Junction (2 km from Swargasuli Tower).
- By Road: Swargasuli Tower is centrally located and can be easily accessed by auto-rickshaws, taxis, or local buses.
Nearest Hotels
- Luxury:
- The Oberoi Rajvilas: A luxurious heritage hotel.
- Mid-Range:
- Holiday Inn Jaipur: Comfort and convenience.
- Budget:
- Hotel Pearl Palace: Affordable and charming, with good service.
ATMs
- ATMs for major banks such as SBI, ICICI, and HDFC are within a 2–3 km radius of the tower.
Medical Facilities
- SMS Hospital (7 km): A major hospital with emergency services.
- Jaipur Hospital (4 km): Another reliable hospital for medical needs.
Parking
- Limited parking is available near the tower, but due to its central location, it is best to come early to secure a spot. Street parking options are also available, though they can be crowded.
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