Hawa Mahal Jaipur, India (Entry Fee, Timings, History, Built by, Images & Location)

(courtesy: shashidhars)

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‘Padharo Mahre Desh’ – JAIPUR!

Welcome to the Famous Pink Sandstone Architectural Marvel of Jaipur – Hawa Mahal

As the day dawns, the regalia of Hawa Mahal in Jaipur comes to light. With thousands of pigeons flocking the airy windows, there is an effervescence of a gorgeous structure that showcases itself on the streets of Badi Choupad in the Pink City.

Hawa Mahal has captured the attention of many a traveller from across the world for decades now. With intricate carvings and delicate architecture, it still remains one of the most beautiful masterpieces of yesteryears.

Carved by hand, stone by stone, it exudes a charm that is incomparable to any other structure seen in today’s world. We have gone from admiring the architecture to studying its patterns only because of its magnificent architecture that boasts of an era gone by.

Known of its innumerable honeycombed shaped windows, Hawa Mahal Jaipur has always been a monument that has caught the attention of national and international travellers, alike. So what makes Hawa Mahal so special?

History of Hawa Mahal- A Trip Down Memory Lane

If you turn the pages of history and architecture, you will come across the monument as more than what it stands for today.

Built in 1799, Hawa Mahal or ‘The Palace of Winds’ has 953 intricately designed windows situated on its outside walls. These windows are also called ‘Jharokhas’. The gorgeous red and pink sandstone windows are perfectly shaped to allow free-flow of breeze through the palace, making summers seem more pleasant.

The Kacchwaha Rajput ruler, Sawai Pratap Singh, grandson of Maharaja Sawai Jai ordered his architect Lal Chand Ustad to construct a perfectly aligned extension to the Royal City Palace. Keeping in tandem with His Majesty’s wishes, this gorgeous ladies palace was constructed in strict adherence to Rajput traditions of Purdah system.

The Palace is situated on the edge of the City Palace, Jaipur and extends to the Zenana or women’s chambers.

#Trivia- This stupendous structure does not have a direct entrance at the front. People can enter from the Imperial Door located in the City Palace.

As per Rajput law, the Royal ladies could not be seen by strangers and were not allowed to appear in public places. With the help of this palace, the ladies could easily be party to the royal processions from a distance without being seen. It is notable to say that that women could observe all the events happening around them, without coming in contact with strangers.

Image Gallery of Hawa Mahal Jaipur, India

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Architecture of Hawa Mahal

What makes it so special?

The architectural marvel, till date, stands to be regaled by many historians and architects worldwide for its unique cool air system inspired from the Venturi effect. The cooling effect is further enhanced by fountains located at the centre of each of the chambers. This makes it a perfect retreat to beat the heat in the sweltering summers of Rajasthan.

This five-storeyed pyramidal shaped monument is about 50 feet high and combines the best of Rajput style architecture and Islamic Mughlai architecture.

#Trivia– The Hawa Mahal is shaped like a crown. If you observe it from a distance, you can imagine the tiara as placed on the head of Lord Krishna!

You can see the Rajput style architecture come alive through its various arched awnings, floral patterns, grooved pillars and lotus. Hawa Mahal is the most-preferred and must-visit tourist attraction with our all-inclusive Jaipur Tour Packages.

While the Islamic style can be typically observed through their delicate lattice inlay work and arches that are similar to that of Panch Mahal in Fatehpur Sikri.

• The palace is actually an extended part of a huge complex, complete with small casements, arched roofs, and stone-carved screens.
• The upper floors of the palace are connected by ramps that were built specifically keeping in mind the palanquin or ‘litter for transport’ of the royal ladies.
• Although the architectural style and craftsmanship is something to look out for, the interiors of the palace are much simpler than its exterior.
• The palace is said to have the best view of Jaipur city.
• In short, the uniqueness of the Hawa Mahal in Jaipur attracts millions of tourists round the year to marvel and get delighted by one of the most outstanding structures of the 18th century.

Let’s enlighten our visitors with some more interesting trivia..

This ‘Palace of Wind’ also houses an archaeological museum situated in the heart of the courtyard. It carefully preserves the different artefacts of Jaipur. You can be sure to transcend to the lives of the Royals by taking a walk around the museum.

Ratan Mahal, located on the second floor, comprises of delicate glasswork windows seen in varied colours. The lights passing through these gorgeous windows makes the entire chamber light up like a shimmering chandelier. An absolute piece of artisanship.

Some of the Jharokhas are made from wood, making it a great inspiration for all those architecture enthusiasts to study the intricacy of handmade artistry.

You can only travel by ramps on the top two floors as it does not have any stairway.

Hawa Mahal got its name from the 5th floor of the structure which is also called Hawa Mandir. It is considered as a must see place with our Jaipur City Tour Packages.

Places to visit near Hawa Mahal

You have admired its beautiful history and gorgeous architecture, now it’s time to check out places you can explore around Hawa Mahal..

As exquisite as the Palace is, there are a couple of really admirable places to see around Hawa Mahal.

Govind Devji Temple

Dedicated to Lord Krishna, this temple is located approximately 700 metres from Hawa Mahal and buzzes with thousands of devotees every day who gather for their Morning and Evening Aartis’. The place is said to exude a feeling of piousness during the prayers and is very well-organized with shoe stands, parking and drinking water availability.

Their Laddoo’s are a must have, as suggested by many travellers and locals.

There is no entry fee for the temple and is open for the public from 5:00 AM to 11:45 AM in the morning and from 5:00 PM to 8:45 PM in the evening.

Chandra Mahal

A part of the City Palace, this section is still occupied by the Members of the Royal Family and is not open for the public. Built by Maharaja Jai Singh II, the palace serves as a reminder from the past.

The palace is located approximately 200 meters from Hawa Mahal and is open for the general public from 9:30 AM to 5 PM every day.

Entry Fee for Chandra Mahal, Jaipur

• Indian Adult: Rs. 3000 per person
• Indian Child: Rs. 1500 per child (7 to 12 yrs)
• Foreign Adult: Rs. 4000 per person
• Foreign Child: Rs. 2000 per child (7 to 12 yrs)

City Palace of Jaipur

Occupying almost one-seventh of the city of Jaipur, the City Palace is known for its exuberant layout and exquisite craftsmanship that lures many a traveller from distant places. The blend of architectural styles is bound to leave you gaping at its magnificence. It is located approximately 800 meters from Hawa Mahal.

City Palace is open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM every day.

City Palce Entry Fee

• Indian Adult: Rs. 300 per person
• Indian Child: Rs. 150 per child
• Senior Citizen: Rs. 150 per person
• Foreign Adult: Rs. 1000 per person
• Foreign Child: Rs. 500 per child
• Photography fee: Rs. 50
• Videography fee: Rs. 150

Jantar Mantar, Jaipur

Marked as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jantar is located very close to the City Palace. It is the largest of five astronomical observatories built by Maharaja Jai Singh II between the period 1727 to 1734. It is a fascinating and famous tourist attraction of Jaipur located in Tripolia Bazar, Near City Palace and Hawa Mahal; it is just about 700 meters from the palace.

Opening Timings of Jantar Mantar, Jaipur is from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day

Entry fee of Jantar Mantar, Jaipur

• Indians: Rs. 50 per person
• Students: Rs. 15 per student
• Foreign tourists: Rs. 200 per person
• Foreign students: Rs. 100 per student

Shopping around Hawa Mahal

We bet you are hungry for some shopping and cuisines of Jaipur now. Let’s explore things to do around Hawa Mahal..

With its thriving history and exuberant surroundings, there are a number of interesting market places that you can explore around this area.

Johari Bazaar

One of the oldest markets of Jaipur, Johari Bazaar is a cultural feast for those visiting the Pink City, especially first-timers. There are a number of shops here that sell vintage and antique artefacts as interesting souvenirs. However, as the name suggests, the place is famous for its Jewellery. Right from silver, gold, diamond to emerald, one can find a variety of exquisite traditional jewellery to take back home.

The market is open from 10 AM to 11 PM every day. It is located at a convenient 900 meters approximately from the Hawa Mahal. Almost all Jaipur local sightseeing tours offer a stop at Johari Bazaar for Shopaholics.

Bapu Bazaar

Located in the heart of the city, Bapu Bazaar boasts of colourful shopping escapades for the shopaholic. It is considered to be the place to look for outstanding ‘Mojari’ footwear, popularly known as Juti. It is made from soft camel leather and is available in a variety of unique embroidery patterns and colours.

It is open from 11:00 AM till 8:00 PM and is located around 1.4 kms from Hawa Mahal.

Tripolia Bazar

Well-known for its textiles, utensils, ironware, brassware, carpets, rugs and a variety of trinkets, Tripolia Bazar is one of the most famous markets of Jaipur. The most unique aspect of this market is the ‘Maniharon ka Bazaar’, which is famous for its lac bangles. Colourful bangles, adorned with the most shimmery stone work and exclusive designs, is what makes this market a must-stop for all shopaholics. The best way to travel in and around the pink city is by hiring a cab from top car rental companies in Jaipur.

Tripolia Bazar is open from 11 AM to 8 PM and is closed on Sundays. This market is conveniently located around 1.2 kms or 5 mins from Hawa Mahal.

Things to eat in and around Hawa Mahal

Savouring the dishes in Jaipur is not only a delight but also a great way to explore the tasty palette of the Rajasthani folk.

Daal Kachori

While in Jaipur, you cannot miss their lip-smacking various Dal Kachori places. They are not only a great option for breakfast but can be devoured any time of the day. Some places that you can try in Hawa Mahal Bazaar are -

• Jain Patang Udyog
• Sharma Sweets famous for its Mawa Kachori located on Hawa Mahal Road.

Omelette at Sanjay’s

It is located in Bapu Nagar near Hawa Mahal in Jaipur and serves around 20 different types of omelettes. It is run by the MasterChef India participant- Sanjay Sharma and has been operational for more than 2 decades.

Kulfi Faluda

When in Jaipur, it is time to beat the heat with some delicious and famous Kulfi Faluda of Bapu Bazaar near Hawa Mahal Jaipur. Shop no 28 on link road serves an excellent plate of kulfi Faluda, enough to devour your foodie taste buds.

While in Bapu Bazaar, also gorge on the different types of Golgappas’ that are a speciality of the area.

Daal-Baati-Choorma

Try the most authentic delicacy of Rajasthan to experience a palatable delight. Some of the famous places to eat this gobsmacking dish are-

• Laxmi Mishthan Bhandaar behind Hawa Mahal in Johari Bazaar
• Shree Balaji Veg Restaurant in Hawa Mahal Bazaar

Other popular food joints that may stir your taste buds around Hawa Mahal are Pakodas at Jagannath Sharma Pakode Wale, Kulfi at Pandit ki Kulfi in Hawa Mahal Bazaar, Ghewar of LMB Sweets and Sambhar Fini in Johari Bazaar near Hawa Mahal, amongst others.

Best time to visit this gorgeous Hawa Mahal

The best time to visit Hawa Mahal Jaipur is in the morning when the sunlight makes a dash for all the windows of the palace, lighting it up like flickering flame on a candle.

Having said this, if you really want to experience the magnificence of this monument, we advise you to plan a holiday to Jaipur from October to March, when the weather is still more tourist friendly.

Our guests can most certainly enjoy running a tan with the summers of Jaipur, which usually last for about 6 months from April to September, that may want you to take good care of your skin by applying sunscreen and wearing sun hats. If you want to take in the grandeur of the beautiful palace and similar other iconic spots of the city then board our one day exciting Jaipur Darshan packages or customize your own tours.

If you are visiting during this period, it is better to come early in the day and admire the beauty around the Palace. Wearing walking shoes will help you ease the pain on your heels.

Timings of Hawa Mahal

9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day. The museum is closed on Friday and Saturday.

Entry Ticket Fee of Hawa Mahal

• Indians: Rs. 50 per person
• Foreigners: Rs. 200 per person

Note: The Palace is not accessible to people in wheelchairs.

Location of Hawa Mahal

Hawa Mahal is located near Badi Chaupad and City Palace complex.

How to reach Hawa Mahal

You can travel to Jaipur in a number of ways- road, rail to air. The city is well-connected by different means of transportation and one can easily enjoy a day excursion to Hawa Mahal and other parts of the Palace. If you have limited time, its best to opt for one day Jaipur tours from Oneday.travel.

Railway Station is located at a distance of approximately 4 kms from the palace.

Airport is located at a distance of approximately 12 kms from the palace.

With a plethora of exclusive sites to explore, touring Hawa Mahal Jaipur is sure going to be an exciting experience.

Pack your bags and get ready to explore the finest architectural marvel of Rajasthan- Hawa Mahal in Jaipur!

Location Map for Hawa Mahal Jaipur