Rajasthan is land of kings and countless wonders. Among its incredible sights is the Hawa Mahal, a true gem that will surely capture your attention. This marvelous structure is not only an architectural masterpiece, but its fascinating history and intriguing facts will completely change your perspective.
As one of the iconic landmarks of Jaipur, it’s renowned for its charming pink latticed balconies and windows, offering jaw-dropping views of the city. Also known as the Palace of the Winds, the Hawa Mahal is considered one of the finest examples of Rajput architecture in the entire country. It was constructed in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, the ruler of Jaipur from the Kachwaha dynasty, as an extension to the Royal City Palace.
The five-storey building has a lavish exterior. According to the ancient records, the design resembles none other than Lord Krishna’s majestic crown, meticulously crafted by the skilled hands of Lal Chand Ustad. To ensure everyone can explore its beauty, ramps have been ingeniously incorporated to reach the upper floors of this remarkable structure.
953 windows that whisper stories of the past
The real showstopper of this place are the 953 small windows, known as jharokhas. These windows are adorned with beautiful and intricate designs that will leave you in awe. This building was a popular summer retreat for Rajput families. The clever design allowed for a refreshing breeze to pass through, offering much-needed relief during hot summers.
The idea behind constructing Hawa Mahal
Based on the historical records, it seems that the initial idea behind constructing this structure was to give the ladies of the royal court a special spot where they could observe the action happening on the streets.
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However, there was a clever twist – the structure was designed with intricately crafted window latticework to maintain their privacy. This arrangement perfectly aligned with the strict purdah rules, which required these ladies to keep their faces concealed and refrain from stepping out in public.
Interesting facts about Hawa Mahal
This gorgeous palace is an impressive 50 feet (15 m) high and has a unique pyramidal shape with five stories. The top three floors are cozy, with the width of just a single room, while the first and second floors boast lovely patios in front. Its front view from the street looks like a honeycomb with tiny portholes.
The portholes are adorned with intricate miniature windows as well as beautifully carved sandstone grills, finials, and domes. They create the illusion of a bunch of semi-octagonal bays, making the palace’s façade truly one-of-a-kind.
On the back side, the inner face of the building consists of chambers and corridors fashioned with simple elegance, reaching all the way to the top floor.
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Inside, the palace is a true marvel, with rooms adorned with a mix of colorful marbles, featuring inlaid panels or gilding. And let’s not forget the stunning courtyard, where fountains take centre stage, adding to the overall grandeur.
Unlike other palaces, this architectural wonder does not have a conventional direct entrance, making your approach all the more captivating and exclusive. To get inside the Hawa Mahal, you’ll need to go through an imperial door located at the back of the building.
Once you reach the top of the palace, prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking views of Jaipur, including must-sees like Jantar Mantar, Sireh Deori Bazaar, and the City Palace. Also, while you’re here, make sure to check out the small museum within the palace grounds. It’s a fantastic way to make the most of your time and dive deeper into the rich history and culture that surround this majestic landmark.
Visiting Hawa Mahal
Operating Days: The Hawa Mahal in Jaipur remains open throughout the year, including weekends and public holidays. Visitors have the flexibility to plan a day trip to Jaipur, specifically on a Saturday, to behold the magnificent Hawa Mahal.
Alternatively, one can organize a vacation in Rajasthan and allocate time for exploring all the captivating tourist attractions of Jaipur, including the awe-inspiring Hawa Mahal.
Ticket Pricing: For children below the age of five, entry to the Hawa Mahal is complimentary, regardless of their nationality. However, individuals aged five and above are required to purchase tickets to enter the Hawa Mahal. Indian citizens can avail tickets for a price of Rs 10, while foreign nationals are required to pay Rs 50.
There are no additional charges for cameras, but visitors are kindly reminded to utilize any footage captured solely for personal use.
Opening & Closing Time: The Hawa Mahal welcomes visitors from 9 am to 5 pm every day. Guests are free to enter at any point during this timeframe and are free to stay inside the premises for as long as they desire.
How to reach:
To get to the breathtaking Hawa Mahal, you first need to reach Jaipur, popularly known as the Pink City of Rajasthan.
By train: If you prefer a comfortable journey with beautiful scenic views, hopping on a train with the Indian Railways is the way to go. The railway network in India is top-notch, offering trains from major cities and towns to Jaipur. Just book your tickets and prepare yourself for a peaceful train ride to the pink city, where you can explore the magnificent Hawa Mahal.
By bus: For budget-conscious travellers or those who enjoy the thrill of a road trip, buses are a fantastic option. Whether you fancy a luxurious AC bus or a more economical one, there are plenty of choices available to get you to Jaipur. Travelling by bus is not only flexible but also light on the pocket, making it a preferred choice for many.
By car: If you value independence and comfort, consider driving your own four-wheeler or hiring a cab. Many people drive into Jaipur from different places, like Delhi and Chandigarh. It offers a cozy and convenient way to reach your destination hassle-free.
By air: You can always opt for a flight to reach Jaipur hassle-free. The city has a large and world-class airport that welcomes flights from all major Indian destinations. If you’re planning to visit the stunning Hawa Mahal soon, it’s a smart move to plan your trip in advance and book your air travel without delay.
After getting to Jaipur, you can easily hire a cab or auto rickshaw to head over to the Hawa Mahal. The public transportation system in the pink city is pretty awesome, so you’ll never have trouble finding a ride to the exact location of the Hawa Mahal.
