Built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, this five-story marvel with 953 windows was designed to let royal women observe street festivals . Today, it’s one of India’s most Instagrammable landmarks—but there’s far more to explore beyond its iconic exterior!
Overview / About Hawa Mahal
- Built By: Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh (a Krishna devotee).
- Architect: Lal Chand Ustad (blending Rajput + Mughal styles).
- Unique Feature: No front entrance! Visitors enter from the rear side.
- Design Inspiration: Resembles Lord Krishna’s crown (the king was a devotee).
- Material: Pink sandstone (giving Jaipur its “Pink City” nickname).
Did You Know?
✔ The lattice windows (jharokhas) keep interiors cool naturally—no AC needed!
✔ Originally built for royal ladies to watch processions without being seen (purdah system).
Top Things to Do at Hawa Mahal
1. Admire the Hawa Mahal
- Snap photos of the street-side view (best in golden morning light).
- Count the 953 windows—each designed for optimal breeze flow.
2. Explore the 5 Floors (Each with a Temple Theme)
- Sharad Mandir (Ground Floor): Winter festivities venue.
- Ratan Mandir (2nd Floor): Once displayed royal jewels.
- Vichitra Mandir (3rd Floor): Krishna worship space with a swing.
- Prakash Mandir (4th Floor): Dedicated to sun/moon festivals.
- Hawa Mandir (Top Floor): Open-air terrace with panoramic city views.
3. Visit the On-Site Museum
- Displays antique royal artifacts, including swords and handwritten manuscripts.
4. Attend the Light & Sound Show (Evenings)
- Narrates Jaipur’s history (₹100 per person; 7:30 PM in English/Hindi).
🚗 How to Reach Hawa Mahal
- Location: Badi Choupad, Pink City (next to City Palace and Jantar Mantar).
- From Jaipur Airport: 12 km (₹300–400 by Uber/Ola).
- From Jaipur Railway Station: 5 km (₹80–100 by auto-rickshaw).
- Local Transport: Cycle rickshaws (best for narrow lanes).
Pro Tip: Combine with City Palace (5-min walk) to save time.
Entry Fees & Timings (2025)
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (open daily).
- Indians: ₹50 (adults), ₹20 (students).
- Foreigners: ₹200.
- Camera Fee: ₹50 (mobile free).
- Guided Tours: ₹200–300 (negotiate; worth it for hidden stories).
Local Tips & Travel Hacks
- Best Time to Visit: 7–9 AM (soft light, fewer crowds).
- Avoid Midday: The sandstone gets blazing hot by noon.
- Secret Viewpoint: Go to Wind View Café (opposite) for a free rooftop view.
- Dress Code: Cover shoulders/knees (respectful attire).
- Bargain Alert: Street vendors quote 3x higher—start at 30% of their price.
Nearby Attractions
- City Palace (300m): Royal residence with museums.
- Jantar Mantar (400m): Ancient astronomical instruments.
- Bapu Bazaar (1km): Best for textiles, mojris, and jewelry.
- Johari Bazaar (1.2km): Famous for gemstones and silver.
Hawa Mahal isn’t just a photo stop—it’s a time capsule of Rajput royalty. Climb to the Hawa Mandir terrace for breezy views, peek through the jharokhas like the queens once did, and imagine the palace buzzing with festivity.
Ready to explore? Pair your visit with City Palace and Jantar Mantar for the ultimate Jaipur heritage day!
