Do the forts, palaces and monuments set your imagination on fire? Do the stories of valor of the warrior princes keep you mesmerized? And more significantly, if you are tired of visiting the same old beaches and mountains for any planned or unplanned vacation, then it’s time to make a change and set your foot in Jaipur.
Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan is everything about rich culture, amazing architecture and loads of beauty. A mix of history and culture this city encompasses, bound to leave its visitors in awe. Jaipur stands out the most, for the presence of an impressive number of remarkable monuments. One such historical monument is the Isarlat Tower of Jaipur. Isarlat allows tourists to go back over the audacity of the wars in history. The monument is now a major tourist spot in the capital for residents and tourists.
About the Isarlat Tower
Isarlat or Sargasuli Tower is a seven-storied historical heritage monument built by Sawai Ishwari Singh in the year 1749. Also known as ‘Tower of Heaven‘, the minaret is inspired by Qutub Minar in Delhi and Kirti Stambh of Chittorgarh. It’s a symbol of great historical importance as its a symbol of Jaipur’s victory. The Sargasuli Monument was once the tallest historical buildings in Jaipur. It still serves you a wonderful opportunity to get a 360-degree view of the cityscape from its roof after you reach the top of this tower.
Standing tall since 1749 AD, Isar Lat was constructed by Ishwari Singh after he achieved victory over his rival Madho Singh who wanted to claim the throne of Jaipur. He defeated the combined armies of the Mewar and the Marathas who were supporting the claims of Madho Singh. He then built the Isarlat or Sargasuli tower to memorialize this triumph.
History of the Isarlat Tower
Sawai Ishwari Singh was the eldest son of the founder of Jaipur Sawai Jai Singh II. Sawai Jai Singh ll was married to Maharani Chandra Kanwar ji and Sisodia princess of Mewar. Maharani Chandra Kanwar kept a condition for allowing Sawai Jai Singh ll to marry the Mewar princess Sisodia. The condition was that the son of Maharani Chandra Kanwar will be the king no matter if he has another son. Sawai Jai Singh ll wanted Ishwari Singh to be the king, which which was unacceptable by Maharana of Mewar.
The crown became a reason of conflict that led to war among both the siblings Sawai Ishwari Singh and Sawai Madho Singh. Sawai Madho Singh was the son of Maharaja Jai Singh ii from Maharani Chandra Kanwar ji. The first war was fought in 1744. Sawai Ishwari Singh was approved as the crowned King with support from the Mughals and was able to defeat Sawai Madho Singh. They attacked him again, got defeated and Sawai Ishwari Singh won the battle with great valor. After this, this memorial was constructed to commemorate the achievement.
This sky-high building also served as a watchtower for the palace to guard the residence of the Royal family, City Palace.
The architecture of Isarlat Tower in Jaipur
This sky-piercing victory tower has been constructed by following the rules of Vastu Shastra. Its an architectural delight was designed by Ganesh Khowan. The 140 feet high tower is octagonal in shape and yellow in color. The minaret contrasts with the pink buildings and markets of the city. It has an entry from a tiny door that opens up in a beautiful round gallery with a spiraling flight of 264 steps upwards. Every segment has a balcony outlet and interlaced windows that provide visitors with a breathtaking panoramic view of Jaipur City. The circular staircase of the tower is composed in superb cross-section work which ensures air and light to the whole structure. Do not miss this great opportunity to have a beautiful bird view look at the pink city atop this once called tallest minaret.
The highlight of Isarlat Jaipur
This tower can be seen from a far distance. The visitors get a chance to catch a glimpse of all the popular heritage monuments from this minaret. You can spot Nahargarh Fort, Charan Mandir, Royal Gaitor, Garh Ganesh, City Palace, Yaadgar, Old Vidhan Sabha, Jantar Mantar, and Hawa Mahal.
Location of Isarlat or Sargasuli Tower
It is located in the heart of the city near Choti Chaupar Chowk and Tripolia Gate of city palace at the meeting point of Tripolia Bazar and Gangori Bazar. Aatish market of Pink City is the place where the Victory Tower is situated.
Timings and visit duration of Isar Lat
It is open every day of the week from 9:30 in the morning to 4 in the evening. This place is good for history buffs and photo fanatics so it will take approx 1 to 2 hours to explore the monument.
Entry fee of Isar Lat Jaipur
The entrance fee for the visitors is Rs. 70 per person
How to Reach
It is very easy to reach Isarlat or Sargasuli Tower. It is located in the middle of the city and near the very famous City Palace of Jaipur. Isarlat tower is just 5 km from Jaipur Railway station and there are several types of transportation available to reach there.