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Hawa Mahal, Jaipur

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Overview

Hawa Mahal, or the Palace of Winds, is Jaipur’s most iconic landmark, a delicate five-storey marvel that rises gracefully above the bustling streets of the Pink City. Built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, this pink sandstone structure is celebrated for its honeycomb façade of 953 jharokhas (windows), designed to let cool breezes flow through and offer royal ladies a discreet view of everyday city life.
An architectural masterpiece of the Rajput era, the Hawa Mahal Jaipur combines artistry, symbolism, and ingenious design. Its breezy corridors, intricate latticework, and panoramic city views make it a must-visit for every traveller exploring Rajasthan’s royal heritage.

Location

Badi Chaupar, Pink City, Jaipur

Timings

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Entry Fee

₹50 (Indians), ₹200 (Foreigners)

Time Required

1–2 hours
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History & Architecture of Hawa Mahal

The Hawa Mahal was commissioned by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799 and designed by Lal Chand Ustad. Its purpose was both practical and cultural; it allowed royal women, bound by the purdah system, to watch processions, markets, and daily life below without being seen.
Constructed from red and pink sandstone, the façade resembles a crown, paying homage to Lord Krishna. The palace is five storeys high but less than a foot thick in some places, an astonishing example of light yet enduring construction.
Inside, narrow passages, arched chambers, and lattice-screened balconies keep the interiors cool even during Jaipur’s scorching summers. The upper floors open to terraces offering stunning views of Jantar Mantar, City Palace, and the old city bazaars.
The fusion of Rajput and Mughal architecture, with floral motifs, domed canopies, and filigree windows, captures Jaipur’s essence as a city where tradition and artistry meet.
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Main Attractions & Highlights

Iconic Facade min

Iconic Facade

The five-storey pink sandstone façade, with 953 latticed windows, is one of India’s most photographed landmarks. Each jharokha allows wind to pass through, creating a natural air-conditioning effect that inspired the name Hawa Mahal.

Interior Architecture min

Interior Architecture

Inside, the Hawa Mahal features gently sloping ramps instead of staircases, connecting the five floors. The corridors, small chambers, and open terraces showcase intricate Rajput craftsmanship.

Top Floor Viewpoints min

Top-Floor Viewpoints

From the upper terraces, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of Jaipur’s City Palace, Jantar Mantar, and the Sireh Deori Bazaar below. The morning light striking the pink façade makes for spectacular photography.

Museum Inside Hawa Mahal min

Museum Inside Hawa Mahal

The palace also houses a small museum that displays relics, miniature paintings, ceremonial armour, and royal artefacts, offering glimpses into Jaipur’s regal past.

Visitor Information: Timings, Entry Fee & How to Reach

Timings & Best Time to Visit

  • Open Daily: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning (8:00–10:00 AM) for soft light and fewer crowds.
  • Best Season: October to March, when the weather is pleasant for walking through Jaipur’s old streets.

Entry Fee

  • Indian Visitors: ₹50
  • Foreign Visitors: ₹200
  • Students (with ID): ₹10
  • Camera Fee: Included in ticket

How to Reach

  • From Jaipur Railway Station: 5 km (15 minutes)
  • From Jaipur Airport: 13 km (30 minutes)
  • Nearest Landmarks: City Palace (just behind), Jantar Mantar (2-minute walk), Tripolia Bazaar (adjacent)
  • Transport: Easily reachable by auto, taxi, or walking if staying within the walled city.

Tips for Visiting Hawa Mahal

  • Visit in the morning for perfect lighting and fewer tourists.
  • Climb to the top floors for citywide panoramic photos.
  • Combine your visit with the City Palace and Jantar Mantar nearby.
  • Wear light clothing and carry water; the narrow passages can get warm by afternoon.
  • For postcard shots, photograph Hawa Mahal from across the road café (Wind View Café or Tattoo Café), which offers perfect front views.
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Nearby Attractions

City Palace Jaipur min

City Palace Jaipur

Just behind Hawa Mahal, a complex of royal courtyards and museums.

Jantar Mantar min

Jantar Mantar

UNESCO-listed astronomical observatory (2-minute walk).

Tripolia Bazaar Johari Bazaar min

Tripolia Bazaar & Johari Bazaar

Vibrant markets for jewellery, textiles, and handicrafts.

Govind Devji Temple min

Govind Devji Temple

Historic temple dedicated to Lord Krishna within the City Palace complex.

Albert Hall Museum min

Albert Hall Museum

3 km away, Jaipur’s oldest museum, showcasing Rajasthani heritage.

Where to Stay Near Hawa Mahal Jaipur

Dera Mandawa – Heritage Stay

  • Distance: 2.5 km (10 minutes)
  • Why Stay Here: Authentic Rajasthani décor, warm hospitality, and curated heritage experiences.
  • Highlight: Evening cultural dinners with folk performances.
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Photography & Instagram Spots at Hawa Mahal

Front View Across the Street min

Front View (Across the Street)

The most iconic photo spot, especially at sunrise.

Upper Floors min

Upper Floors

Capture Jaipur’s rooftops and bazaars.

Lattice Windows min

Lattice Windows

Beautiful interplay of light and shadow through the jharokhas.

Interior Arches min

Interior Arches

Framing shots with symmetry and detail.

Cafes Across the Road min

Cafés Across the Road

Perfect backdrop for candid or aesthetic travel shots.

Photography Tips:

  • Best Time for Photography: 8:00–10:00 AM (for sunlight on the façade) or 5:30–6:30 PM (for the golden hour).

FAQs

1. Why is Hawa Mahal famous?
It’s renowned for its unique façade with 953 jharokhas that allow cool air to flow through, keeping the palace breezy.
Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh built it in 1799, designed by architect Lal Chand Ustad.
It houses small chambers, sloped corridors, a museum, and terraces overlooking the city.
Yes, visitors can enter from the rear side (via City Palace road).
Yes, ₹50 for Indians and ₹200 for foreigners.
Morning hours for good lighting and fewer crowds.
Around 1 to 2 hours.
From Wind View Café or Tattoo Café across the street.
Yes, it’s open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.
It’s located adjacent to City Palace, forming part of the royal complex’s outer section.

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