Hawa Mahal,Rajasthan
Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) is an iconic late-18th-century façade in Jaipur, Rajasthan, built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh and designed by Lal Chand Ustad. Constructed in pink sandstone, it exemplifies Rajput architectural style with Mughal influences and served both aesthetic and functional roles—providing ventilation and allowing royal women to observe street life and processions while maintaining purdah.
Places to visit
- Hawa Mahal façade (the multi-tiered honeycomb front with 953 jharokhas)
- Top viewing terrace with panoramic views of the City Palace and Jaipur streets
- Interior galleries and small chambers showing traditional Rajput decor
- Nearby attractions: City Palace, Jantar Mantar (astronomical observatory), Johari Bazaar
Unique Aspects
- 953 jharokhas (windows) with intricate jali (lattice) work
- Pink/red sandstone construction with delicate carvings
- Pyramidal, five-storey structure that reads like a semi-octagonal crown
- Natural ventilation design — produces a cooling effect (hence 'Hawa')
- Photogenic sightlines at sunrise and during golden hour
Things to do
- Photography of the façade from the street and rooftop vantage points
- Climb to the upper floors for panoramic views of the City Palace and bazaars
- Guided history or heritage walks linking Hawa Mahal, City Palace, and Jantar Mantar
- Shopping and street food sampling in nearby Johari and Bapu Bazaars
- Enjoy rooftop tea/coffee with a view of the façade and local life
Best Time to Visit
October–March for pleasant weather; visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light on the façade and cooler temperatures.
Weather Conditions
Summers (Apr–Jun) are very hot (often 35–45°C). Monsoon (Jul–Sep) brings occasional rain and humidity. Winters (Nov–Feb) are mild and comfortable (5–25°C).
Entry Fees & Permits
Typical entry fee (subject to change): Indian nationals ~INR 50, foreign visitors ~INR 200–300; camera/camcorder fees may apply (approx INR 50–100). Usual opening hours 09:00–16:30 — verify current hours and fees before travel.
Accessibility
Nearest airport: Jaipur International Airport (~13 km). Nearest major railway station: Jaipur Junction (~3 km). Accessible by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or local buses. Note: narrow lanes and internal staircases limit wheelchair access; portions of the structure are not fully accessible.
Recommended Duration
Plan 1–2 hours to visit Hawa Mahal including rooftop views and brief visits to nearby bazaars; longer if combining with City Palace and Jantar Mantar.
Clothing & Gear Tips
Light cotton clothing in summer, layers in winter; sunhat, sunglasses, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes. Women may prefer a scarf/shawl to respect local sensibilities when moving through crowded areas.
Local Food & Souvenirs
Try Rajasthani specialties nearby: dal baati churma, ghevar (seasonal sweet). Souvenirs: bandhani textiles, Kundan/Meenakari jewelry, blue pottery, Rajasthani puppets and miniature paintings. Bargain politely in local bazaars.