Jaipur’s Hawa Mahal, an iconic piece of architecture and its history

Times of IndiaTIMESOFINDIA.COM/TRAVEL TRENDS, JAIPUR/ Created : Jun 28, 2023, 22:00 IST

Jaipur’s Hawa Mahal, an iconic piece of architecture and its history

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Synopsis

Also known as the Palace of the Winds, it’s one of the finest examples of Rajput architecture in the country, and was built in 1799 by the Kachwaha ruler of Jaipur Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh as an extension to the Royal City Pala … Read more

Jaipur’s Hawa Mahal, an iconic piece of architecture and its history

Rajasthan is a place of royals and many wonders, and Hawa Mahal is one such gem. It’s not just the architecture, Hawa Mahal’s history and facts will let you view this structure in a new light. Of course, it’s one of the iconic landmarks of Jaipur, and is famed for its pink latticed balconies and windows that offer breathtaking views of the city.

Also known as the Palace of the Winds, it’s one of the finest examples of Rajput architecture in the country, and was built in 1799 by the Kachwaha ruler of Jaipur Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh as an extension to the Royal City Palace.

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All about the palace

The five-storey building boasts of a rich exterior which, as per the records, was designed in the shape of Lord Krishna’s crown by Lal Chand Ustad. To reach the top floors of the structure, visitors can use ramps. The most interesting feature of this structure are its 953 small windows that are further complemented with intricate designs, also known as jharokhas.

In the past, it served as a summer retreat for many Rajput families as its design allowed passage of pleasant breeze, thereby offering the much needed relief during the summers.

The idea behind building Hawa Mahal

If we go by the records, the original intent behind the design of this structure was to allow the ladies of the royal court a space to witness the drama unfolding in the streets, but from behind the carefully-crafted window latticework. This was in line with the strict rules of purdah, which meant they were not allowed to appear in public without covering their face.

Other attractions

You can enter the Hawa Mahal via a grand door at the back of the building, as it does not feature a direct entrance. When you find yourself at the top of the palace, you can treat yourself to the incredible views of Jaipur, particularly Jantar Mantar, Sireh Deori Bazaar, and the City Palace.

There is also a small museum within the palace property, which you can check out to make better use of your time.

How to reach Hawa Mahal?

Jaipur Airport is around 12.2 km from Hawa Mahal, from where you can hire a taxi to take you to the palace.

You can even book cabs or bikes online, which is a more affordable option than hiring from the airport.

Also, once you are in Jaipur, you can catch a local bus from the stop near the airport to save some bucks.

What's so special about this palace?
The most interesting feature of this structure are its 953 small windows that are further complemented with intricate designs, also known as jharokhas.
What was the idea behind building Hawa Mahal?
If we go by the records, the original intent behind the design of this structure was to allow the ladies of the royal court a space to witness the drama unfolding in the streets, but from behind the carefully-crafted window latticework. This was in line with the strict rules of purdah, which meant they were not allowed to appear in public without covering their face.
How to reach Hawa Mahal?
Jaipur Airport is around 12.2 km from Hawa Mahal, from where you can hire a taxi to take you to the palace.You can even book cabs or bikes online, which is a more affordable option than hiring from the airport.Also, once you are in Jaipur, you can catch a local bus from the stop near the airport to save some bucks.