Jaipur Astronomical Observatory

Around 1727 Maharajah Jai Singh II  constructed five astronomical observatories in west central India. The observatories are called "Jantar Mantars" and boast some amazing stone instruments like a sundial that still provides exact time (within 2 seconds) and instruments used to study the constellations and stars.  We were surrounded by slabs of sandstone while touring, and being in 110+ degree temperature it was a little uncomfortable, but still worth the experience.  There is a fascinating story that explains the concept of the observatories.  A couple of links for more info: http://www.roseindia.net/travel/india/delhi/jantar-mantar-delhi.shtml http://www.art-and-archaeology.com/india/jaipur/jan1.html

As usual, our photos cannot quite capture the resplendence!

The Ram Yantra is a series of two buildings that are circular in design. They are separate but are easily distinguishable by how they are practically identical to one another. These two buildings were made to help measure the altitudes of different stars in the sky.

Stone tablet illustrating important symbols

My astrology sign - Pisces 

Mary Beth's astrological sign - Sagittarius 

The largest device or instrument is the Samrat Jantar which is 90 feet high and its shadow is plotted in such a manner so that is shows the exact time of the day