Hawa Mahal
Palace of Winds • The Pink City's Crown Jewel
About Hawa Mahal
Hawa Mahal, also known as the "Palace of Winds," is a stunning five-story palace in Jaipur, Rajasthan. Built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, it was designed by Lal Chand Ustad as an extension of the City Palace.
The palace is famous for its unique honeycomb-like structure with 953 small windows called "Jharokhas," decorated with intricate latticework. These windows were designed to allow royal ladies to observe street festivities while unseen from the outside, following the strict rules of "purdah" (seclusion).
The structure is built from red and pink sandstone, giving it a distinctive appearance that matches the "Pink City" theme of Jaipur. The palace stands at an elevation of 50 feet from its base and is a perfect example of Rajput architecture with Mughal influences.
Historical Background
1799 - Construction Begins
Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh commissions the palace as a summer retreat.
1800 - Completion
The palace is completed and becomes a royal observatory.
19th Century - Royal Residence
Used by royal women to observe street processions and festivals.
20th Century - Restoration
Major restoration work carried out to preserve the structure.
Present Day - Tourist Attraction
One of Jaipur's most visited landmarks and architectural marvels.
Architectural Marvel
Design Elements
- • 953 Jharokhas (windows) with latticework
- • Five-story pyramidal structure
- • Red and pink sandstone construction
- • Intricate carvings and motifs
- • Blend of Rajput and Mughal styles
Dimensions
- • Height: 50 feet (15 meters)
- • Width: 50 feet (15 meters)
- • Depth: 20 feet (6 meters)
- • Windows: 953 Jharokhas
- • Stories: 5 levels
Best Time to Visit
Early Morning (8:00 AM)
Best lighting for photography and fewer crowds.
Late Afternoon (4:00 PM)
Golden hour lighting and pleasant temperatures.
Evening (6:00 PM)
Beautiful sunset views and cooler weather.
Essential Visiting Tips
What to Bring
- • Comfortable walking shoes
- • Camera with wide-angle lens
- • Water bottle
- • Hat and sunscreen
- • Light clothing (it can get hot)
Important Notes
- • Best viewed from outside for full effect
- • Interior access limited to first two floors
- • Photography allowed throughout
- • Visit early morning for best photos
- • Combine with City Palace visit
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
- • Across the Street: Full facade view with street life
- • From City Palace: Elevated perspective
- • Close-up Details: Individual Jharokhas
- • Street Level: People and palace together
- • Sunrise/Sunset: Golden hour lighting
Camera Settings
- • Aperture: f/8 to f/11 for sharp details
- • ISO: 100-400 for best quality
- • Shutter Speed: 1/125s or faster
- • Lens: Wide-angle (16-35mm) for full view
Nearby Attractions
City Palace
The royal residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur, featuring museums and courtyards.
Entry Fee: ₹200 (Indians), ₹500 (Foreigners)
Jantar Mantar
UNESCO World Heritage site with astronomical instruments.
Entry Fee: ₹50 (Indians), ₹200 (Foreigners)
Johari Bazaar
Famous jewelry market known for traditional Rajasthani designs.
Best For: Shopping and street photography
Amber Fort
Magnificent hilltop fort with stunning views and architecture.
Entry Fee: ₹100 (Indians), ₹500 (Foreigners)
Location & Map
Hawa Mahal is located in the heart of Jaipur's Pink City, near the City Palace.
Address:
Hawa Mahal Rd, Badi Choupad, Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002
Coordinates:
26.9239° N, 75.8267° E
Quick Facts
Entry Fees
Opening Hours
How to Reach
Jaipur Airport (JAI) - 12 km from Hawa Mahal
Jaipur Junction - 3 km from Hawa Mahal
Well connected by bus from Delhi, Agra, and other cities
Auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and taxis available
Contact Information
Weather Guide
Local Cuisine
Dal Baati Churma
Traditional Rajasthani dish
Ghewar
Traditional sweet dessert
Shopping Guide
Johari Bazaar
Traditional jewelry and gemstones
Bapu Bazaar
Textiles and traditional clothing
Tripolia Bazaar
Handicrafts and souvenirs
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