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Jahaz Mahal or Ship Palace is believed to have been constructed during the reign of Mahmud Shah Khalji. It was commissioned by Ghiyas al-Din. The Jahaz Mahal in Mandu is located on a narrow strip of land between the two lakes. Jahaz Mahal is believed to have been constructed during the reign of Mahmud Shah I Khalji who ruled from 1436 to 1469. But, it is also said that the palace is commissioned by Ghiyas al-Din after succeeding his father.

During the transfer of Malwa from Dhar to Mandu during the fifteenth century, many workmen from Delhi were brought to build fortifications, tombs and palaces were brought in from Delhi. These workmen were experts in Tughlaqid architecture, which represented simplicity and vigor of design. This greatly influenced Malwa architectural style.

Jahaz Mahal in Mandu was built in the second half of the fifteenth century. It was a symbol of ‘elegance achieved through the symbiosis of indigenous and outside influences in late Malwa design’. The Jahaz Mahal is situated in the state of Madhya Pradesh in Mandu (India) is located on a narrow strip of land between the two lakes, Munj Talao (Munj Tank) to the west and Kapur Talao (Kapur Tank) to the east. It stands on the terraces of the adjoining Taweli Mahal. It is a royal pleasure to watch this boat floating on the lake on a moonlit night.

Jahaz Mahal is a double storied, rectangular structure with 3 feet (0.86 meters) thick wall. One must watch the six gothic arched opening in the main entrance of the eastern side of the palace. These arched openings are secluded by a continuous chhajja (awning) supported on stone brackets. There are three large halls in the ground floor which are separated by corridors. The small rooms are located at the ends.

There are numerous fountains and cascades built in the Jahaz Mahal which makes the palaces more beautiful. The charming image of the palace is further highlighted by the reflection of the pavilions in the water. Apart from this romantic ambience, the northern end of the terrace leads to a bath with broad steps leading into it.

Did you know that Emperor Jahangir liked this palace so much that during a visit to Mandu, he spent many times in this palace with his beloved wife, Nur Jahan.

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