Hawa Mahal Jaipur – The Palace of Winds
Introduction
Hawa Mahal Jaipur, also known as the Palace of Winds, is one of the most famous landmarks of Rajasthan and a jewel of the Pink City. Built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, this architectural wonder is admired for its unique honeycomb design with 953 finely carved windows. More than just a tourist spot, Hawa Mahal reflects the rich culture, royal traditions, and artistic excellence of Jaipur.
History of Hawa Mahal
The Hawa Mahal Jaipur was designed as an extension of the City Palace. Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, inspired by the crown of Lord Krishna, commissioned this masterpiece for the royal women of the palace. During that era, women followed the purdah system and could not appear in public. The specially crafted windows, called jharokhas, allowed them to observe street life, royal processions, and festivals without being seen. This thoughtful design gave them a way to stay connected with the outside world while maintaining privacy.
Architecture and Design
The architecture of Hawa Mahal Jaipur is a breathtaking blend of Rajput and Mughal styles.
Structure – The five-storied palace rises to about 50 feet in height, resembling the crown of Lord Krishna.
Materials – It is built with red and pink sandstone, blending perfectly with the color scheme of Jaipur, also called the Pink City.
Windows – Its 953 lattice windows, or jharokhas, are the highlight. They allow cool breezes to flow through the palace, making it naturally air-conditioned even in hot summers—hence the name “Palace of Winds.”
Floors – Each floor has its own charm. Sharad Mandir was used for royal festivities, Ratan Mandir is decorated with colorful glasswork, while the upper floors like Vichitra Mandir and Hawa Mandir were meditation spaces. The topmost Prakash Mandir offers panoramic views of Jaipur.
Things to See at Hawa Mahal
When exploring Hawa Mahal Jaipur, here are the main highlights:
Intricate Jharokhas – Each window is beautifully carved, showcasing the craftsmanship of Rajput artisans.
Courtyard – The spacious courtyard inside the palace is a fine example of traditional Rajasthani design.
Museum – A small museum inside displays weapons, artifacts, and miniature paintings from Jaipur’s royal heritage.
City Views – From the top floors, you can enjoy sweeping views of Jaipur, including the City Palace, Jantar Mantar, and bustling local markets.
Entry Fees and Timings
Hawa Mahal Jaipur is open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The entry fee differs for Indian nationals and foreign tourists.
| Category | Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| Adults | ₹50 |
| Students (with valid ID) | Discounted Rate |
Entry Fee for Foreign Visitors
| Category | Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| Adults | ₹200 |
| Students (with valid ID) | Discounted Rate |
Best Time to Visit Hawa Mahal
The best time to visit Hawa Mahal Jaipur is during the early morning hours when the rising sun bathes the palace in golden light. The winter months, from October to March, offer pleasant weather, making sightseeing more enjoyable.
Nearby Attractions
Located in the heart of the old city, Hawa Mahal is surrounded by several must-visit attractions:
City Palace Jaipur – A royal residence just a short walk away.
Jantar Mantar – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with historic astronomical instruments.
Johari Bazaar & Bapu Bazaar – Famous local markets for jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts.