[1][2] One reason for building the Jahaj Mahal retreat was to provide transit accommodation as a Sarai or (inn) to the large number of pilgrims from Afghanistan, Arabia, Iran, Iraq, Morocco and Turkey who came to Delhi to visit the many Muslim shrines.

The palace has carved impressive square chhatris (six of them with different numbers of pillars – six, eight and twelve) or towers in the corners and the centre, ornamented with beautiful squinches in different chambers and walls (pictures in the gallery).

[3][5] Jahaj Mahal is the venue of the annual colorful festival of the Phool Walon Ki Sair (means a procession of the florists) or 'Sair-i-Gulfaroshan' held in October.

It was discontinued from 1942 for a time during the British period but was restarted in 1961 at the initiative of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India.

Cultural troupes from several States of India perform dances, drama programmes and hold musical soirees (particularly Qawwalis), in their colourful regional costumes and aspire for honours recognising their talent.

Among the numerous architectures, Jahaz Mahal, Mandu provides the most extravagant experience showcasing the history and its associated monuments.