History of Isarlat Swargasuli Tower, Jaipur; Standing tall since 1749 AD

Standing tall since 1749 AD, Isarlat was built by Sawai Ishwari Singh, the eldest son of the founder of Jaipur, Sawai Jai Singh II.

History of Isarlat Swargasuli Tower

Sri Sawai Maharaja Ishwari Singh was born in February 1722 or March 1721. He was the eldest son of Sawai Jai Singh ll of Jaipur.

Sawai Jai Singh II was also married to a Sisodia princess of Mewar, but possibly with a condition that the son by Maharani Chandra Kanwar would be the king. But Sawai Jai Singh ll wanted Ishwari Singh to be the king, which the Maharana of Mewar didn’t approve of.

Also read: Ghadi Wale Gopinath Ji 

Isarlat Jaipur Wiki – Soon, the disputes led to war for the crown between Sawai Ishwari Singh and Sawai Madho Singh, who was the son of Maharaja Jai Singh ll from Maharani Chandra Kanwar ji. The first war was fought between the brothers in 1744.

Sawai Ishwari Singh was approved as the crowned King by Mughal King Muhammad Shahand, while Marathas supported Sawai Madho Singh. Sawai Ishwari Singh, with support from the Mughals, was able to defeat Sawai Madho Singh in the first war fought in 1747.

The two rivals met again in the war in 1747 and 1748 but the result was the same.

Sargasuli Tower in Jaipur was erected to commemorate the victory of Sawai Ishwari Singh over Sawai Madho Singh. Isarlat, popularly known as Sargasuli, literally means “passage to heaven” due to its 140 ft height.

Sargasuli is 7 stories high and was once the tallest building in Pink City. Isarlat is built according to the principles of Rajput and Mughal architecture. It was designed by Ganesh Khowan.

Also read: Govind Dev Ji Jaipur

Its circular staircases are built in such a way that they ensure proper air and light in the whole tower. Isarlat, which also served as a watch tower to guard the residence of the Royal family, the City Palace now provides a breathtaking view of the city.

Almost all major monuments could be spotted from its top storey, which is open for tourists. This yellow coloured minaret contrasts with the pink buildings and markets and is visible from far distances.

Where is the Isarlat Swargasuli Tower in Jaipur?

It could clearly be viewed from Tripolia Bazar, but Isarlat Swargasuli Tower is in Aatish Market.

According to local legends, Ishwari Singh built the Isarlat to check on his minister, whom he doubted would conspire against him.

Some others say that Sawai Ishwari Singh fell in love with the daughter of his top minister but could not marry her because she wasn’t from Royal lineage. Sawai Ishwari Singh would see her from the top of the Isarlat. However, most of the historians rule out any such claims.

How much time does it take to visit this monument? It takes hardly 30 to 45 minutes to visit Swargasuli in Jaipur. 

Places of interest near Sargasuli, Jaipur

• City Palace Jaipur
• Albert Hall
• Jantar Mantar

Also read: Govind Dev Ji and the Jaipur Royal Family, an exceptional saga

FAQs about Sargasuli Jaipur

Question: What exactly is Isarlat (a.k.a. Sargasuli / Swargarohan Shuli) in Jaipur – a watchtower, monument, or something else?

Answer: Isarlat (Sargasuli), also known as Sargasuli or Swargarohan Shuli, is a historic victory tower located in Jaipur’s old city. At the time it was built, it served as a defensive watchtower and also as a ceremonial monument built to commemorate a royal victory. It offers panoramic views of the planned Pink City, and you can spot almost all the historical monuments from the top of it.

Question: Where is Isarlat / Sargasuli located in Jaipur, and how do you get there (especially from Tripolia Bazaar)?

Answer: Isarlat is located in the heart of the walled city of Jaipur, very close to Tripolia Bazaar and Choti Chaupar. From Tripolia Bazaar, it is just a short walk behind Atish Market, easily accessible during a heritage walk.

Question: Is the climb to the top of Sargasuli Tower difficult or safe? What should I expect inside?

Answer: The climb inside Sargasuli Tower involves a narrow spiral walkway. Interestingly, there are no staircases but a narrow slope. Those comfortable with confined spaces usually manage the climb without difficulty.

Question: What are the best views from the top – is it worth going up for photography or sunset views?

Answer: From the top of Isarlat, visitors get a rare 360-degree view of Jaipur’s old city grid, bustling bazaars, temple spires, and distant hills. It is particularly worth climbing for photography enthusiasts, as the elevated perspective offers unique cityscapes, with late afternoon light being ideal, though formal sunset viewing is limited by surrounding buildings.

Question: Is there an entry fee, ticket counter, or specific opening hours for Sargasuli / Isarlat?

Answer: Yes, Sargasuli has a nominal entry fee collected at a small ticket counter at the base. Indian students can get an entry ticket at Rs. 20, while International students have to pay Rs. 100. Similarly, the Indian tourist entry fee is Rs. 50 and International Tourist entry ticket is of Rs. 200. Opening hours are generally from morning to early evening, though timings can vary slightly, so visiting during daylight hours is recommended to ensure access and visibility.

Question: Is Isarlat / Sargasuli worth visiting compared to other Jaipur sights like Hawa Mahal, City Palace, or Nahargarh Fort?

Answer: While Isarlat is smaller and less ornate than major Jaipur attractions like Hawa Mahal or City Palace, it offers a quieter, more authentic old-city experience. It is especially worth visiting for travelers interested in lesser-known heritage sites and urban viewpoints rather than grand palaces or forts.

Question: Can you combine Isarlat / Sargasuli with other nearby attractions in the old city walk?

Answer: Isarlat fits perfectly into an old Jaipur walking tour and can be easily combined with Tripolia Bazaar, Badi Chaupar, Choti Chaupar, local temples, and traditional food streets. Its central location makes it a convenient stop between shopping, street food exploration, and other historic landmarks.

Question: Is the climb and viewing platform suitable for kids, elderly travelers, or those with mobility concerns?

Answer: The steep spiral staircase makes Sargasuli less suitable for elderly visitors, very young children, or anyone with mobility issues. There is no lift or resting platform, so visitors should assess their comfort and physical ability before attempting the climb.

Question: What is the historical backstory of Sargasuli / Isarlat – who built it and why?

Answer: Sargasuli was built in 1749 by Maharaja Ishwari Singh of Jaipur to celebrate his victory over rival Rajput rulers. The tower symbolized royal prestige and dominance, and also showcased Jaipur’s planned urban layout from a commanding height.

Question: Are there any safety tips or local insights from Jaipur residents about visiting Sargasuli?

Answer: It is recommended to visit Swargasuli during mid-morning or late afternoon to avoid heat and crowds. Wearing comfortable footwear, carrying water, and being cautious on the narrow stairs are advised. As it is less touristy, visitors should also keep their personal belongings secure while exploring the surrounding lanes.