Hawa mahal TIcket Price: As sunrise approaches, the beauty of Hawa Mahal in Jaipur glistens. This remarkable structure proudly sits at the center of the Pink City, on the busy roads of Badi Choupad, with open window sections adorned by countless pigeons.
Circling the world for decades now, Hawa Mahal has been a major tourist attraction. Perhaps its detailed carvings or perhaps its delicate design, the monument certainly deserves the title of The Jewel of Jaipur.
It’s not the windows alone that are striking and exquisite but the craftsmanship of detailed stonework all around the building. People study its patterns and admire architecture, rightfully so, with such intricate and skilled workmanship from centuries ago.
Hawa Mahal’s innumerable comb-like windows make it distinct and they surely attract tourists of all nationalities and even Indians themselves. But why choose India as the place to fly for vacation?
History Of Hawa mahal
Historians and architects all over the world still find the genius design of Hawa Mahal especially fascinating because of the clever Venturi inspired cooling system ever created. It not only is brilliant in its construction but in all of its fountains also helps keep the air replenishing and cool, making it a splendid place to escape the sweltering heat of Rajasthan during summers.
Mahal is about 50 feet tall and is shaped like a pyramid, with five stories. It incorporates the magnificence of Rajput architecture and Mughal design isas well.
Did you know? Hawa Mahal’s shape from afar appears to be a crown? Others add it resembles a tiara on Lord Krishna’s head.
You can spot some floral patterns, pilasters, the lotus designs and even rajput window arches. One of the top places to visit Hawa Mahal is in Jaipur and it is included in most tour packages.
Islamic influences are also visible on the palace especially in the delicate latticework along with the arches resembling those in the Panch Mahal at Fatehpur Sikri.
Hawa Mahal has a stunning arched exterior, with an equally breathtaking interior consisting of small rooms and delicate stone-carved screens. The modes of transport used by ancient females of nobility, known as palanquins, could easily navigate the specially designed ramps of the upper floors.
The premises of the palace provide unparalleled views of Jaipur and the surrounding areas, even though the interiors of the palace have far simpler decorations in comparison to the intricate exterior.
Hawa Mahal is a masterpiece of 18th Century architecture, and due to its one of a kind design and abundant history, receives millions of visitors making it a hotspot for tourism.
Let’s continue with the amazing fun facts regarding this wonderful monument!
Hawa Mahal or the ‘Palace of Winds’ not only has a royal palace but also houses an archaeological museum in the center courtyard. The museum has a collection of priceless archaeological artifacts from Jaipur which show the life of the royals. Walking around the museum is like having a time machine!
In the second floor lies Ratan Mahal which is renowned for her breathtaking glasswork windows. These windows are in many colors and let the sunlight pass through them, making the entire room to light up like a fairy-tale room. Stunning craftsmanship.
Some Jharokhas or windows of the palace which are wooden are a marvelous treat from an architecture point of view as they allow keen admirers to appreciate the artistic beauty of handcrafted wood.
Unlike other palaces, the Hawa Mahal does not have stairs, the last two floors are linked with ramps for easy royal ladies traveling up and down.
Fifth floor, known as Hawa Mandir is where the name of the palace comes. Hawa Mahal is the most visited place in Jaipur within the tours closing in on Jaipur City Tour Packages.
Thus, if you are in Jaipur, do not miss the opportunity to see this piece of architecture!
Places To Visit Near Hawa Mahal
Apart from Hawa Mahal’s exquisite history and unparalleled architecture, there are other wondrous places to visit in close proximity.
Govind Devji Temple
The temple is subject to a high volume of traffic on a daily basis. It is situated approximately 700 meters away from Hawa Mahal. It is visited for the Morning and Evening Aartis, which is a devotional worship service for singing and worshiping the temple deity. The temple boasts serene and sanctified vibes, especially during the prayers. It has ample infrastructure, including shoe racks, parking, and drinking water.
If you ever visit, make sure to grab Laddoos as they are a signature meal that most visitors suggest.
There is no admission charge and the temple operates from 5:00 AM to 11:45 AM then from 5:00 PM to 8:45 PM.
Chandra Mahal
This is still the residence of some of the Royal Family, therefore not accessible to the general public. It is part of the City Palace. Chandra Mahal was constructed by Maharaja Jai Singh II and serves as a reminder of our regal tradition and heritage.
It is just around two hundred meters away from Hawa Mahal. Though entry is not permitted, the City Palace can be accessed externally, and is open from 9:30 AM to 5 PM.
The City Palace accounts for nearly one-seventh of the city’s area, which makes it the largest palace in Jaipur. Referred to as the most beautiful palace in the world, the City palace is famous not just for the astonishing artistry of construction, but also for the various buildings which depict different styles of architecture and further enhance the beauty of the City Palace. It’s situated approximately eight hundred meters from Hawa Mahal.
Palace of City Entry Fees
Indian Audience: Rs. 300 each
Indian Kids: Rs. 150 each
Elderly Citizens: Rs. 150 each
Overseas Adults: Rs. 1000 each
Overseas Kids: Rs. 500 each
Photograph: Rs. 50
Videograph: Rs. 150
Jantar Mantar, Jaipur
In Jaipur, Jantar Mantar marks a famous location as well as UNESCO World Heritage Site. Constructed by Maharaja Jai Singh II between 1727 – 1734, it is simply astonishing observatory. It is located near City Palace and Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar is only a 700 meter walk from either site. Jantar Mantar features immense star and sky observatory instruments, making it a sight for sore eyes.
Every Day from 9:00 A.M. till 5:00 P.M.
Entry Fees for Jantar Mantar
Indian Tourists: Rs. 50
Student: Rs. 15
Foreign Nationals: Rs. 200
Foreign Students: Rs. 100
Photo Gallery of Hawa mahal
Shopping around Hawa Mahal
If you are eager to shop and eat in Jaipur, then you are at the right place! Close to Hawa Mahal, there are many stunning markets to explore and purchase other exquisite things.
Johari Bazaar
If this is your first time in Jaipur, then Johari Bazaar is a must-stop because it is one of the most ancient markets, and its beautiful jewelry like gold, silver, diamond, and emerald make it even more famous. Antique jewelry pieces and even souvenirs that could remind you of your time at Jaipur are also available here.
The market opens daily from 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM. It is also not very far from Hawa Mahal, only 900 meters, so it is very convenient. If you love jewelry there is Johari collection that is a must see, so try not to miss this stop since many local tours have shopping and jewelry viewing as part of their itinerary.
Bapu Bazaar
For those who enjoy vibrant shopping, Bapu Bazaar located in-between the heart of Jaipur is the perfect spot. Also, the Observatory from every angle opens the attention to this market. Bapu Bazaar and is very popular for the Mojari/Bapu Juti, which is soft leather shoes made from camel skin, are uniquely designed in many stunning colors and patterns.
The opening hours of the Bapu Bazaar is 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and is approximately 1.4 kilometers from Hawa Mahal.Tripolia Bazaar
Tripolia Bazaar is well-known for its carpets, rugs, brassware, textiles and utensils. The market is also known for ‘Maniharon ka Bazaar,’ which braids colorful lac bangles. These bangles are bright and ornately set with stones, making them a unique gift to purchase.
The Tripolia Bazaar opens from 11:00 a.m to 8:00 p.m. and stays shut on Sundays. It’s located just 1.2 kilometers from Hawa Mahal, which is a 5-minute walk.
Places to Eat When in Hawa Mahal
You can never go wrong with Jaipur when it comes to its food. It is always a delightful experience to taste the local food as it offer’s a glimpse to the rich culture and traditions of the regal state hereby called Rajasthan.
Daal Kachori
Daal Kachori is a must try for every visitor to Jaipur. It is a fried snack and can be eaten at any time during the day, with spicy lentils filling the insides. Some of the best places around Hawa Mahal to try Daal Kachori are:
Jain Patang Udyog
Sharma Sweets (on Hawa Mahal Road, famed across Rajasthan for its Mawa Kachori too)
Omelette at Sanjay’s
Sanjay’s restaurant is located in Bapu Nagar close to Hawa Mahal. Known for serving twenty different types of omelettes, Sanjay Sharma, the owner of this joint who happens to be a MasterChef India contestant, has been in this business for twenty years now.
Kulfi faluda:
This dessert is ideal during the warm weather because it’s so refreshing. For those venturing out, be sure to visit Shop No. 28 on Link Road close to Bapu Bazaar, as it is the place to enjoy faluda’s kulfi.
Daal-Baati-Choorma
Rajasthan’s signature food is Daal-Baati-Choorma. Make sure to taste it to get the true essence of the area. Some amazing places to have this dish near Hawa Mahal include:
Laxmi Mishthan Bhandaar (behind Hawa Mahal, in Johari Bazar)
Shree Balaji Veg Restaurant (in Hawa Mahal Bazaar)
Other Mouthwatering Dishes
Around Hawa Mahal, you can enjoy other local specialties like:
Jagannath Sharma Pakode Wale famous fried snacks called Pakodas.
Frozen dessert Kulfi at Pandit Ki Kulfi.
Sweets Ghewar from LMB Sweets.
Sambhar Fini (a salty snack) in Johari Bazaar.
These are all located around Hawa Mahal, so you will not have to travel far to explore the delectable dishes of Jaipur!
Ideal Period For A Stunning Hawa Mahal
The ideal period to visit Hawa Mahal will be in the morning when the sunlight comes pouring in through the windows. This causes the palace to sparkle and appear like a burning candle and is considered by many to be an outstanding view.
To maximize comfort while visiting the monument, it is best you plan the visit between the months of October to March as the weather tends to be more favorable during this time and makes for an easier exploration.
Because of its mountainous nature, Jaipur tends to get relatively extra hot during summers from April to September. If you do want to visit in summers, put on some sunblock and a hat. Protective head gear will keep you away from the harsh scorching suns rays. For people interested in exploring the city, there’s the option of Hawa Mahal Jawahar Circle Darshan Packages or you can make a customized private tour for yourself.
If you are someone who cannot handle heat, then summers would be the best time to go in the early mornings. You will less likely have to deal with the noon heat. Having comfortable footwear will make the exploration around the palace much more of a breeze.
Timings of Hawa Mahal
- Opening hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day.
- Closed on: Fridays and Saturdays.
Entry Ticket Fee for Hawa Mahal
- Indians: Rs. 50 per person
- Foreigners: Rs. 200 per person
Location of Hawa Mahal
Hawa Mahal is located near Badi Chaupad and the City Palace complex.
How to Reach Hawa Mahal
Jaipur is well-connected by road, rail, and air, making it easy to get to Hawa Mahal. If you’re short on time, you can take a one-day Jaipur tour for a quick, fun exploration of the city.
- Railway Station: About 4 km from Hawa Mahal.
- Airport: About 12 km from Hawa Mahal.