Entry Fee:
For Indian tourists: INR 50 per person for regular entry
For foreign tourists: INR 200 per person for entry to the museum (includes audio guide) and INR 200 per person for regular entry
INR 500 per person for entry to the museum (includes audio guide)
Children under the age of 7 years can enter for free, while students with a valid ID card can avail of a discounted entry fee. It is also important to note that additional charges may apply for photography and videography inside the monument.
Visiting Timings:
The monument is open for visitors from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm every day.
It is recommended to visit the monument during the early morning hours or late afternoon hours to avoid the rush and heat.
The monument is closed on some national holidays such as Holi, Diwali, and Independence Day, so it is advisable to check the schedule beforehand.
About Hawa Mahal
Hawa Mahal, also known as the “Palace of Winds,” is a prominent tourist places to visit in Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. It was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh as an extension of the City Palace. The palace is located in the heart of the old city and is easily recognizable by its unique pink facade and honeycomb-like structure.
The Hawa Mahal was designed in the form of a beehive, with 953 small windows, called jharokhas, which allow cool air to circulate through the palace, providing a natural air-conditioning system. The palace was built for the royal ladies to observe the daily life and processions of the city from behind the purdah (veil).
The five-story palace has a pyramidal structure with a high screen wall on the front facade, which hides the interiors of the palace. The jharokhas are intricately carved and decorated with beautiful lattice work and domes. The palace also has a small museum displaying artifacts related to the history and culture of Rajasthan.
Overall, Hawa Mahal is a magnificent example of Rajput architecture and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, culture, and architecture.
History of Hawa Mahal
Hawa Mahal, also known as the “Palace of Winds,” was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, the grandson of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, who founded the city of Jaipur. The palace was designed by Lal Chand Usta, a prominent architect of the time, who was inspired by the unique structure of the Khetri Mahal in Jhunjhunu.
The palace was built as an extension to the City Palace, and its purpose was to provide the royal ladies with a place to observe the daily life and processions of the city from behind the purdah (veil), as they were not allowed to appear in public. The palace was also designed to provide natural air-conditioning, as the jharokhas (windows) allowed cool breeze to circulate through the palace.
Hawa Mahal has five floors, with each floor having a different theme and purpose. The first floor was used for the royal family, while the second and third floors were reserved for the courtiers and the servants. The fourth and fifth floors were used by the palace guards and the kitchen staff.
Over the years, Hawa Mahal has undergone several renovations and restorations to preserve its heritage and beauty. Today, it stands as a magnificent example of Rajput architecture and is a popular tourist attraction in Jaipur, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Architecture of Hawa Mahal
Hawa Mahal is a magnificent example of Rajput architecture, and its unique design and structure have made it a famous landmark of Jaipur. The palace has a five-story pyramidal structure with a high screen wall on the front facade, which hides the interiors of the palace. The palace is constructed of red and pink sandstone, giving it a beautiful pink hue.
The most striking feature of the palace is the 953 small windows, called jharokhas, which are intricately carved and decorated with beautiful lattice work and domes. The jharokhas allow cool breeze to circulate through the palace, providing natural air-conditioning. The jharokhas also served the purpose of allowing the royal ladies to observe the daily life and processions of the city from behind the veil.
The palace has a total of five floors, each with a different theme and purpose. The first floor was used for the royal family, while the second and third floors were reserved for the courtiers and the servants. The fourth and fifth floors were used by the palace guards and the kitchen staff.
The palace also has a small museum displaying artifacts related to the history and culture of Rajasthan. The museum contains paintings, photographs, and ancient artifacts that offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan.
Overall, the unique design and structure of Hawa Mahal make it a must-visit for anyone interested in architecture, history, and culture.
Facts AboutHawa Mahal
Hawa Mahal was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh. It was designed by Lal Chand Usta, a prominent architect of the time. The palace has 953 small windows, called jharokhas, which are intricately carved and decorated with beautiful lattice work and domes. The jharokhas allow cool breeze to circulate through the palace, providing natural air-conditioning. The palace has a total of five floors, each with a different theme and purpose.
The palace was built as an extension to the City Palace, and its purpose was to provide the royal ladies with a place to observe the daily life and processions of the city from behind the purdah (veil). The palace is made of red and pink sandstone, giving it a beautiful pink hue.
Hawa Mahal is a magnificent example of Rajput architecture and is a popular tourist attraction in Jaipur. The palace has a small museum displaying artifacts related to the history and culture of Rajasthan.
Tips For Visiting Hawa Mahal
Timing: Visit Hawa Mahal in the morning to avoid crowds and get better lighting for photography. Also, try to avoid visiting during the hot summer months (April to June) as it can get quite hot and uncomfortable.
Dress appropriately: Hawa Mahal is a religious and historical monument, so dress modestly and conservatively. Avoid wearing revealing clothes or shorts, and keep your shoulders and knees covered.
Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes as you will need to climb a lot of stairs to explore the palace.
Hire a guide: Hiring a guide is recommended as they can provide valuable information about the history and architecture of the palace, as well as help you navigate the palace and avoid getting lost.
Be respectful: Hawa Mahal is a religious and historical monument, so be respectful of the culture and traditions of the place. Do not litter or deface the palace, and avoid touching or climbing on the delicate structures and artifacts.
Photography: Photography is allowed inside the palace, but be mindful of the privacy of the locals and the rules of the palace. Avoid taking photographs of people without their permission, and do not use flash photography.
Nearby attractions: Hawa Mahal is located in the heart of Jaipur, so there are many other attractions nearby that you can explore, such as City Palace, Jantar Mantar, and the markets of Jaipur.
By following these tips, you can have a more enjoyable and respectful experience while visiting Hawa Mahal.
How To Reach Hawa Mahal
Hawa Mahal is located in the heart of Jaipur city and is easily accessible by different modes of transportation. Here’s how to reach Hawa Mahal:
By air: Jaipur International Airport is the nearest airport to Hawa Mahal, located around 12 km away. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to reach Hawa Mahal.
By train: Jaipur Junction is the nearest railway station, located around 4 km away from Hawa Mahal. You can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw from the station to reach Hawa Mahal.
By bus: Jaipur is well-connected by bus to major cities in Rajasthan and other nearby states. You can take a bus from the Jaipur bus stand to reach Hawa Mahal.
By taxi or auto-rickshaw: Taxis and auto-rickshaws are easily available in Jaipur and can take you directly to Hawa Mahal.
By walking: If you’re staying in the vicinity of Hawa Mahal, you can also consider walking to the palace. It is located in the heart of the city, so it is easily accessible on foot.
Overall, Hawa Mahal is easily accessible by different modes of transportation, and you can choose the one that suits your needs and budget.
Lesser Known Facts about Hawa Mahal
The Hawa Mahal was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh as an extension of the City Palace.
The palace is made of red and pink sandstone and is shaped like a honeycomb. It has 953 small windows, or jharokhas, that allow cool air to flow through the palace and keep it well-ventilated.
The Hawa Mahal was designed by Lal Chand Ustad, a famous architect who also designed several other buildings in Jaipur, including the City Palace.
The palace was built for the royal ladies to watch the street processions and daily life of the city without being seen themselves. This allowed them to maintain their privacy and remain hidden from the public gaze.
The palace is also known as the “Palace of Winds” because of its unique design and the cool breeze that flows through it. It was also designed to resemble the crown of the Hindu god, Lord Krishna.
The palace is a five-story building, but it has no steps or elevators. Instead, it is connected by a series of ramps that wind up to the top floor.
The Hawa Mahal was also used as a hideout by the freedom fighter, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, during the Indian freedom struggle.
These are some interesting and lesser-known facts about the Hawa Mahal, which make it a must-visit destination in Jaipur.
Places To Stay Near Hawa Mahal
Hawa Mahal is located in the heart of Jaipur city, and there are plenty of accommodation options available nearby. Here are some popular places to stay in Hawa Mahal:
Umaid Bhawan Heritage House Hotel: This hotel is located just 1 km away from Hawa Mahal and offers comfortable and luxurious accommodation options.
Alsisar Haveli: This heritage hotel is located around 2 km away from Hawa Mahal and is known for its traditional architecture and warm hospitality.
Dera Rawatsar: This boutique hotel is located around 2 km away from Hawa Mahal and offers elegant rooms and personalized services.
Hotel Kalyan: This budget hotel is located just 500 meters away from Hawa Mahal and offers clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices.
Hotel Khandwa Haveli: This hotel is located around 2 km away from Hawa Mahal and offers a blend of traditional and modern amenities.
These are some popular places to stay in Hawa Mahal, but there are many other options available in the surrounding areas as well. You can choose the one that best suits your budget and preferences.
Places to Visit Near Hawa Mahal Within 10 km
There are several interesting places to visit within 10 km of Hawa Mahal in Jaipur. Here are some popular options:
City Palace: Located just 1.5 km away from Hawa Mahal, City Palace is a popular tourist attraction that showcases the rich history and culture of Jaipur.
Jantar Mantar: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located around 1.5 km away from Hawa Mahal and is home to a collection of astronomical instruments built in the 18th century.
Albert Hall Museum: Located around 3 km away from Hawa Mahal, this museum showcases a rich collection of artifacts and exhibits related to art, history, and culture.
Nahargarh Fort: Located around 6 km away from Hawa Mahal, Nahargarh Fort is a popular tourist spot that offers stunning views of Jaipur city.
Jaigarh Fort: Located around 9 km away from Hawa Mahal, Jaigarh Fort is an ancient fort known for its impressive architecture and design.
Jal Mahal: Located around 7 km away from Hawa Mahal, Jal Mahal is a beautiful palace built in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake.
These are some of the top places to visit near Hawa Mahal in Jaipur. You can explore them and experience the rich culture and history of the city.
Places for Shoping Near Hawa Mahal
Hawa Mahal is located in the heart of Jaipur city, which is known for its rich heritage and culture, and it’s also a shopper’s paradise. There are plenty of shopping options available near Hawa Mahal where you can buy traditional Rajasthani items, textiles, jewelry, and more. Here are some popular places for shopping near Hawa Mahal:
Johari Bazaar: This is a popular market known for its jewelry and gemstones. Here you can find a wide range of precious and semi-precious stones, gold and silver jewelry, and traditional Rajasthani jewelry.
Bapu Bazaar: This market is known for its textiles, fabrics, and traditional Rajasthani clothes. Here you can find a wide range of textiles, such as Bandhani, Leheriya, and Sanganeri prints.
Tripolia Bazaar: This market is known for its lac bangles, brassware, and other traditional Rajasthani handicrafts.
Chandpole Bazaar: This market is known for its colorful textiles, such as tie-and-dye fabrics and embroidered textiles.
Nehru Bazaar: This market is known for its leather products, such as shoes, bags, belts, and jackets.
MI Road: This is a popular shopping district in Jaipur where you can find a wide range of traditional handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and more.
These are some popular places for shopping near Hawa Mahal where you can buy traditional Rajasthani items and souvenirs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hawa Mahal
What is Hawa Mahal?
Hawa Mahal is a palace located in Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. It was built in 1799 by A Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh and is known for its unique honeycomb-shaped façade.
What is the best time to visit Hawa Mahal?
The best time to visit Hawa Mahal is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and cool.
What are the visiting hours for Hawa Mahal?
Hawa Mahal is open every day from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
What is the entry fee for Hawa Mahal?
The entry fee for Hawa Mahal is INR 50 for Indian nationals and INR 200 for foreign nationals.
How much time does it take to visit Hawa Mahal?
It usually takes around 1-2 hours to visit Hawa Mahal, but it can vary depending on the crowd and your interest in the palace’s history and architecture.
What are some other tourist attractions near Hawa Mahal?
Some other popular tourist attractions near Hawa Mahal include City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Albert Hall Museum, and Nahargarh Fort.
Is photography allowed inside Hawa Mahal?
Yes, photography is allowed inside Hawa Mahal, but you need to pay an additional fee for using a still or video camera.
Is there any light and sound show at Hawa Mahal?
No, there is no light and sound show at Hawa Mahal.
Can I hire a guide at Hawa Mahal?
Yes, you can hire a guide at Hawa Mahal to learn more about its history and architecture.