Decoding Shadows at Jantar Mantar 2026

Who would have thought that something as simple as a shadow could play such an important role in astronomy? Our visit to Jantar Mantar, Jaipur, changed the way we looked at the site. Instead of seeing astronomy only as a field filled with formulae and distant planets, we experienced it through giant instruments built from stone and marble.

On the visit, we learnt about Maharaja Jai Singh II, a great scholar and a passionate astronomer. He built 5 observatories in the north Indian cities of Delhi, Jaipur, Ujjain, Varanasi, and Mathura in his quest for greater accuracy and the ability to read time and study astronomy. Before entering the observatory, our guide told us that these observatories were built in the 18th century and were designed to observe the movement of the Sun, stars, and planets with the help of large astronomical instruments.

Let’s talk about the astronomical instruments of Jantar Mantar, Jaipur. The Jaipur observatory is the largest and is also recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. When we visited Jantar Mantar, we were amazed to see the world’s biggest sundial and watch its shadow move with the Sun. The Samrat Yantra uses the position of the Sun and the movement of its shadow to measure local solar time. The guides explained the sundial kit and helped us understand its design and science. We were excited to make our own miniature sundial.

We also found out how to find zodiac signs using the magic of the Sun! We also learnt how the Rashivalaya Yantras were used to study the twelve zodiac signs. We hope you also wish to visit Jantar Mantar, Jaipur, and experience this fascinating place for yourself.

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