Hawa Mahal Jaipur The Breathtaking "Palace of Winds" in India

Hawa Mahal Jaipur

A pink palace kissed by wind, echoing Jaipur’s history, beauty, and royal grace forevermore.

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In the middle of Jaipur city stands one of India’s most beautiful buildings — Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds.

Built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, this pink sandstone palace is one of the main reasons Jaipur is called the pink city.

Hawa Mahal has 953 small windows (jharokhas) that allow fresh air to flow inside. The design was made so that royal women

could look at city life and street festivals without being seen by the public.

It’s not just a monument. it’s a feeling. Every breeze that passes through Hawa Mahal carries stories from Jaipur’s royal past.

History of Hawa Mahal Jaipur

The story of Hawa Mahal takes us back to the 18th century.

When Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh ruled Jaipur, he wanted to build something unique that would show the beauty of Rajput

culture and also serve a royal purpose.

He was inspired by the Khetri Mahal of Jhunjhunu and asked his architect Lal Chand Ustad to design something similar

but grander.

The palace was built so that royal ladies, who followed the purdah system (they couldn’t appear in public), could still enjoy the

outside world. From these small windows, they could see the busy streets, processions, and celebrations while staying

hidden from view.

The name Hawa Mahal means “Palace of Winds” because the many windows allowed natural air to pass through, keeping the

palace cool even in Jaipur’s hot summer.

Architecture of Hawa Mahal Jaipur

The architecture of Hawa Mahal is what makes it truly special. It is made from red and pink sandstone, matching the rest of

Jaipur’s traditional buildings.

The palace has five floors, built in the shape of Lord Krishna’s crown. The front side looks like a honeycomb, full of tiny

windows decorated with delicate patterns.

Each of the 953 windows has a small screen or lattice, called jharokha, designed to let air and light in. The windows also

helped royal women watch the city without being seen.

Inside, the palace is simple but elegant. There are narrow corridors, small chambers, and a large courtyard on the ground

floor. As you climb up, you’ll see stunning views of City Palace, Jantar Mantar, and Jaipur’s colorful streets.

Even though it’s more than 200 years old, Hawa Mahal still stands strong — a beautiful example of Rajput and

Mughal art styles.

Hawa Mahal Ticket Price and Timings

Category

Indian Visitors :- ₹50 per person

Foreign Visitors :- ₹200 per person

Camera / Video Charges :- ₹50 (approx.)

Timings:

:- Opens at 9:00 AM

:- Closes at 4:30 PM

:- Last entry around 4:00 PM

Season-wise:

Winter (Oct–Mar): Best time weather is pleasant for sightseeing.

Summer (Apr–Jun): Hot but less crowded.

Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Rain makes the pink walls shine beautifully.

How to Reach Hawa Mahal Jaipur

Hawa Mahal is right in the center of Jaipur’s old city, near Badi Chaupar. It’s easy to reach from anywhere in Jaipur.

:- By Air: Jaipur International Airport is around 12 km away. You can take a cab or auto-rickshaw to reach Hawa Mahal.

:- By Train: Jaipur Junction Railway Station is about 5 km away. Auto and cab services are easily available.

:- By Bus: City buses run regularly from different parts of Jaipur.

:- By Foot: If you’re staying in the old city area or near Johari Bazaar, you can simply walk.

Photography at Hawa Mahal

If you love photography or Instagram, this is one of the most photogenic places in India.

The best time to click pictures is in the morning, when sunlight hits the front wall and turns it golden pink.

Best photo spots:

:- The opposite side of the street, from the Wind View Café, gives the best full view.

:- Inside the courtyard, where the patterns and light look magical.

:- From the top floors, you can capture Jaipur’s skyline and colorful streets.

Where to Stay

If you want to stay near Hawa Mahal, here are some good places for every budget:

:- Alsisar Haveli Heritage Hotel – A royal heritage stay with old charm.

:- Samode Haveli – A luxury palace hotel with top-class service.

:- Zostel Jaipur – For backpackers and budget travelers.

:- Umaid Bhawan Heritage House – Mix of comfort and tradition.

Restaurants

Govindam Retreat

Govindam Retreat is a peaceful rooftop restaurant near Hawa Mahal, serving delicious Rajasthani thali and traditional Indian

meals. The calm atmosphere and local flavors make it perfect for a relaxing lunch.

Shree Balaji Veg Restaurant

Shree Balaji Veg Restaurant offers pure vegetarian Rajasthani food with homely taste and great prices. Their dal baati churma

and gatte ki sabzi are loved by locals and travelers alike.

The Tattoo Café & Lounge

Located opposite Hawa Mahal, The Tattoo Café is famous for its rooftop view, cool vibes, and tasty snacks. It’s a great place

to enjoy coffee while admiring Jaipur’s beauty.

Wind View Café

Wind View Café gives a direct view of Hawa Mahal from its cozy rooftop. Visitors love the soft breeze, peaceful seating,

and tasty tea or coffee served with amazing views.

Conclusion – The Soul of Jaipur

Hawa Mahal is not just another monument. it’s the living heart of Jaipur.

When you stand before it, you don’t just see a palace, you feel the stories of kings, queens, and the desert winds.

Every window has seen hundreds of years of life passing by — from royal processions to modern travelers. The soft pink walls,

the cool air, and the sound of the city together make Hawa Mahal a place you’ll always remember.

So, when you visit Jaipur, don’t miss this gem. Take a deep breath, feel the breeze, and let Hawa Mahal tell you its story.