The Jaivana Cannon Pond – Tale of Asia’s Largest Cannon on Wheels

Amongst all the treasures of the wonders in Rajasthan, we will talk about Jaivana – the largest cannon on wheels in Asia and 2nd largest in the world. The Jaivana Cannon is an 18th-century weapon, built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. But, Jaivana never served its purpose to attack or defend as this cannon was never fired. Today, Jaigarh Fort’s Jaivana Cannon attracts a large number of tourists to marvel at its gigantic size and the intricate carvings of it.

History of Jaivana Cannon

The massive Jaivana Cannon, the biggest cannon in India is an impressive historical artifact that still stands proudly watching over the surroundings of Jaigarh. This massive cannon is renowned for its size and engineering marvel. Jaivana holds a unique place in history due to its limited use and intriguing design.

The Jaivana Cannon was commissioned by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in 1720, the ruler of the princely state of Jaipur, who was a scholar himself. Regarded as the founder of Jaipur City, he was also a mathematician, astronomer, and architect. His contributions to astronomy led to the construction of the famous Jantar Mantar observatories across India. An interesting fact about Rajasthan is that these two significant contributions of this ruler are now listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

His Majesty was also a visionary thinker who valued knowledge and innovation in various fields. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II also had an interest in science and military technology, which further lead to the birth of Jaigarh Fort’s Jaivana Cannon.

About Jaivana Canon

This massive weight is attributed to the cannon’s large size and robust construction. The cannon is made of solid iron and was cast in a single piece, showcasing the advanced metallurgical techniques of the time. The Jaivana Cannon is a wheeled cannon, allowing it to be maneuvered and aimed with relative ease despite its significant weight. 

According to the records, 4 elephants were used to move this huge cannon. The cannon’s size and weight posed significant challenges in terms of metallurgy, molding, and transportation.

The artillery pieces of this period often feature some decorative elements and inscriptions, which can be clearly seen by the engravings on the Jiavana Cannon. This cannon is decorated with the symbol and name of the ruler, some mythological animal designs, floral and geometric designs, religious verses, and other cultural inscriptions. 

The visual appeal of the Jaivana Cannon showcases the artistic taste of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. The Jaivana Cannon stands as an impressive relic of India’s historical military technology, reflecting the grandeur and innovation of the era’s rulers that continues to captivate visitors and historians alike.

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Legend of Jaivana Cannon

According to the local legends, this cannon was just fired once for testing purposes. It was due to concerns about the immense recoil and potential structural damage to the fort. This testing is a significant event that witnessed the power of Jaivana. 

The force of the test shot of the Jaivana Cannon was so powerful that the cannonball traveled through a considerable distance before landing. This test shot landed over 35 kilometers away in the Chakshu Village, creating a huge pond at the landing site. The pond was developed later over the years and today acts as a water reservoir for the surrounding region.

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About the historical fort – Jaigarh

Entry Ticket:

₹ 35 per person for Indians

₹ 85 per person for Foreign Tourists

₹ 50 for Still Camera

₹ 200 for Video Camera

Jaigarh proudly stands tall on a rugged “Cheel Ka Tila”, overlooking the Pink City of Jaipur. This fortress was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II of Jaipur who is a significant contributor to Rajasthan’s history and architecture. Jaigarh played a pivotal role in the defense of the region and was a center of military activity during its time.

 The fort’s watchtower proudly flies a large flag that is ceremoniously hoisted every day as a tribute to the king’s movements. The king would reportedly observe the flag from his palace to gauge the situation at the fort. This tradition continues today, symbolizing the fort’s historical significance.

Jaigarh’s architecture showcases the expertise of the artisans and engineers of its time. Its sturdy walls, watchtowers, and bastions reflect the defensive ingenuity that was paramount during its construction.

The fort features advanced rainwater harvesting systems that collected and stored water for the fort’s inhabitants. This remarkable water management system highlights the strategic planning behind the fort’s construction.

From Jaigarh Fort’s vantage point, visitors are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Amer Fort and Fortifications, Maota Lake, Sagar Lake, and the scenic Aravalli hills. The sprawling city of Jaipur unfolds below, offering a unique perspective of Pink City’s architecture, bustling markets, and vibrant streets.

Jaigarh Fort stands as a testament to the military and architectural mastery of its time, with the Jaivana Cannon and the tradition of the flag adding unique historical dimensions to its significance. The fort’s strategic location, architectural features, and stunning views make it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and travelers exploring the rich heritage of Rajasthan.

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Places to Visit Near Jaigarh Fort’s Jaivana Cannon

1. Amer Fort: Located in close proximity to Jaigarh Fort, Amer Fort is an architectural marvel known for its grandeur and intricate design. It showcases a blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
2. Panna Meena Ka Kund: This historic stepwell, known as a ‘kund’, is an exquisite example of ancient water management and architectural beauty. Its unique geometric pattern and the play of light and shadow make it a popular spot for photography.
3. Elephant Village: The Elephant Village, also known as Hathi Gaon, offers a chance to interact with and learn about elephants in a responsible and ethical manner. Visitors can enjoy elephant rides and even feed these gentle giants.
4. Maota Lake: This lake lies at the foothills of Amer Fort. It’s a picturesque water body that adds to the beauty of the fort’s surroundings. The lake was created to provide water to the Amer Fort and the surrounding areas.
5. Meera Mandir: Meera Mandir is a temple dedicated to the legendary poet-saint Mirabai. It’s a peaceful place of worship with beautiful architecture and serene surroundings.
6. Jal Mahal: The Jal Mahal, or Water Palace, is a stunning architectural gem situated in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. Though not accessible from the inside, its picturesque setting against the backdrop of the Aravalli hills makes it a popular sightseeing spot.
7. Padao Restaurant: The Padao Restaurant is situated at Nahargarh Fort and offers spectacular panoramic views of Jaipur city. It’s a perfect place to relax, enjoy a meal, and soak in the breathtaking vistas.
8. Nahargarh Fort: Perched on the Aravalli hills, Nahargarh Fort offers sweeping views of Jaipur and its surroundings. It’s not only historically significant but also a popular spot for tourists seeking scenic beauty and architectural heritage.

These places, situated near Jaigarh Fort’s Jaivana Cannon, collectively offer a diverse range of experiences from historical exploration and architectural marvels to natural beauty and cultural immersion. Whether you’re interested in history, and architecture, or simply enjoying the beauty of the landscape, these attractions near Jaigarh Fort provide something for every traveler.