The Jal Mahal was built in 1591 AD by Shah Quli Khan, a member of the nobility of the Mughal empire and the governor of Narnaul. Khan was a protegee of Bairam Khan, an important official in the Mughal court and one-time regent of the empire. He was also a successful military commander who served in the Mughal army under Akbar the Great. The campaigns of Akbar to conquer northern India made Khan wealthy, and the commander distinguished himself by wounding the Suri general Hemu at the Second Battle of Panipat. In gratitude for Khan's service, Akbar granted him titles, wealth, and appointed him as the governor of Narnaul.