Rajasthan is a word that bombards your head with a million eyeshots. The most regal and popular amongst it is the sight of a pink-hued, red sandstone marvel in Jaipur that is known to the world as Hawa Mahal.
Hawa Mahal is the landmark of Jaipur and the royal gem of every Golden Triangle Trip to India. Any trip to India whether small or large will always render incomplete if Hawa Mahal isn’t included in the itinerary.
Planning a holiday in India? Then, we are sure you will love a good read about what is to come on your way. That’s why we have prepared for you a guide that will help you at every on a visit to this timeless architectural marvel. Go on! You can thank us later.
BASIC ARCHITECTURE OF HAWA MAHAL
Hawa Mahal or the wind palace was commissioned some 200 years ago by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh of Rajasthan. However, this lattice structure which is known to the world today as the integral component of the Golden Triangle trip was a just a mere extension of the city palace in the past.
In yesteryears, this structure was used by the ladies of the royal family to enjoy the festival, fairs and daily on the street. Are you wondering why they were observing it from a distance? Then, let us tell you that during that there was a stern “purdah” system for the royal ladies. According to which they have forbidden of showing their faces in public.
Architecturally, the structure also played an important role in cooling the palace with its 954 windows or Jharokha. Craving for more? Continue reading for some definite bangers!
BASIC ARCHITECTURE OF HAWA MAHAL
- 1. The very glimpse of Hawa Mahal gladdens every heart with joy. Tinted in the hues of red and pink, this establishment looks like a honeycomb. This establishment is in the shape of a pyramid where the highest floor has the width of a room.
- 2. Historians believe that the crown of Lord Krishna (a Hindu deity) was the actual inspiration behind its design. Why? Well, that’s because the architect was a Krishna devotee like everyone else in the state. There are many more references to this deity in various parts of the palace. So, make sure you do not miss any of them.
- 3. The entry to the palace is from its rear end where a tiny little gate opens up to a beautifully kept courtyard. Entering into the courtyard you will feel as if you’ve entered a fantasy movie where a whole new world resides behind an okay looking gate.
- 4. There are five floors to the edifice and two major courtyards. Furthermore, this high rise building is not supported by any foundation as a result of which it is a little tilted.
- 5. Apparently, there are no stairs inside the palace, only ramps.
- 6. The interiors are more on the simplistic and practical side. Although they too are covered in different colored marbles, the fusion of Islamic and Hindu style architecture steals the spotlight here.
INSIDE HAWA MAHAL
If you are wondering what’s inside this paragon of beauty, then be our guest. We have already told you we have your back so we will stick with it by elaborating on this one of the top palaces and forts of Rajasthan.
1st Floor: Sharad Mandir- One that welcomes autumn
Sharad Mandir will be the very first floor that will greet you on your visit to Hawa Mahal. This floor basically sets the mood of the edifice and introduces you with the insights of how royalty would spend her time here.
There is a fountain at the very center of the courtyard circumscribed by a shallow pool. Panning through the area feels like placing the pieces of a puzzle that is very much capable of imagining the whole scenario in your head.
2nd Floor: Ratan Mandir- Bejeweled!
For landing on the second floor you need to climb up the ramp. You must be wondering, why ramps? Why not regular staircases? Well, then that’s because the royal ladies wore heavily embroidered clothes and chunky gold jewelry in the past, making it difficult for them to travel from floor to floor. So, the idea of behind building ramps was to easily carry them in wheels from one floor to another.
Let’s talk about Ratan Mandir now. This floor is as gorgeous as its name. With windows covered with different color stones, Ratan Mandir looks no less than a painting at most part of the day. The floor has a small low rise pavilion too.
3rd Floor: Vichitra Mandir- The prayer house
The meaning of this floor is actually ‘weird’. Why? Well, technically, the floor was an escape for the king from the outside world and his only connection with his deity. As a result of it, he usually preferred to stay alone with the doors shut. As much as normal it sounds today, it can be a weird thing in the past. So, the name ‘weird floor’.
There isn’t any pavilion on this floor but a spooky way to the upper floors. Believe us, if don’t like traveling through small spaces, there are chances that you might get a little claustrophobic here.
4th Floor: Prakash Mandir- the illuminated floor
If you are interested in some panoramic views of the city, then you will love Prakash Mandir. With beautiful Rajasthani chhatris sprinkled over the terrace, this floor is the perfect spot for pampering the shutterbug in you. Happy clicking!
5th Floor: Hawa Mandir- the airy paradise
As the name suggests, there is no shortage of wind and bestowing sights here at Hawa Mandir. From here you can get a good view of the City Palace and even of Nahargarh Fort. What to do here? We suggest you enjoy the scenery and be grateful for your Rajasthan trip on the Golden Triangle tour. It will be a memory that will last longer than anything else.
THINGS TO DO IN HAWA MAHAL
Visiting Hawa Mahal is among the top things to do in India but do you have any idea what are the top things to do in Hawa Mahal and its nearby areas? No? Then, let us break it down for you.
- 1. Let history speaks to you in a royal language at the premises of Hawa Mahal. Explore the museum of the palace that showcases armors, weapons, textiles and more.
- 2. Pamper your inner gastronome with the lip-smacking delicacies near the palace complex. Taste the real flavor of Rajasthan.
- 3. Set free your shopping spree at the shops opposite to the structure. Shop for puppets, handicrafts and even clothing there but don’t forget to bargain.
- 4. Take back home a piece of Rajasthan in the form of a painting from Dhola Maru Art Gallery.
- 5. Enjoy the perfect masala tea while looking over the city at the terrace of Jal Mahal.
PLACES TO VISIT NEARBY HAWA MAHAL
1. City Palace
The epicenter of Jaipur’s regal charms
City Palace is the central and probably the most important structure of this very first planned city of medieval times. It is spread over a large area and covers almost one-seventh of the old city of Jaipur.
The palace has an array of gardens, buildings, and courtyards bedecking its pristine aura. There are temples and a museum in its vicinity too, making it a complete package on a trip to Jaipur. So, pay it a visit maybe?
2. Jantar Mantar
The perfect amalgamation of history and science
Welcome to the largest of five astronomical observatories built by Maharaja Jai Singh. This astronomical device is a wonder in itself containing 14 major geometric devices for measuring time, predicting eclipses, tracking stars, finding the declination of planets and determining celestial altitudes.
It’s the perfect blend of science and history and those who love them both with all their hearts, it’s a wonderland. So, make sure you get the most of your time here because boredom will be the last thing you will experience in this fun astronomical lesson.
Things to know about Hawa Mahal:
Pin the regal destination- location of Hawa Mahal
Hawa Mahal is located at Hawa Mahal Road, Badi Chaupar in Jaipur. It is pretty evident that the location does contain the name of the monument so finding it will never be a hassle.
Are you running short of time on your Jaipur travel? Then you can easily visit Hawa Mahal while traveling to Badi Chaupar. We told you we have your back!
Enjoy to the fullest with the best time to visit Hawa Mahal
September-March: Jaipur’s charms are best served in the cool months of winter. Luckily, it’s the best time to visit India too. Enjoy the pleasant summer on a monumental trip to India with structures like Hawa Mahal.
When can you visit this beauty?
Hawa Mahal is the star of every Golden triangle trip. Surprisingly, unlike other stars in India, Hawa Mahal doesn’t keep you waiting. Its gates are open for all from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. daily. Although one hour is enough time to absorb its regal aura, you can stay here for as much time as you like.
How to reach Hawa Mahal India?
Hawa Mahal has its foundation in the very center of the city. There is no chance that you will have difficulty locating this destination. You can reach this destination via any transport medium you want. Here is a little information that will come in handy:
- Airport: Sanganer airport
- Railway Station: Merta Road Jn Railway Station
- Bus Station: Hawa Mahal Bus Stop
How to enter this airy paradise? – Ticketing details!
- 1. Entry fee for Indian: INR 50
- 2. Admission price for foreigners: INR 200
Will you be looking for other things to do in Jaipur? Are you interested in visiting other forts and palaces of Rajasthan? Then, you can book a composite ticket for the Jaipur trip together on a single platform at the government website www.bookrajmonuments.in.
The ticket will be valid for two days. Plus, you will be able to enjoy Amber Fort, Albert Hall, Jantar Mantar, Nahargarh Fort, Vidyadhar Garden, and Sisodia Rani Garden at reasonable prices.
For composite ticket the pricing is:
- 1. For Indian citizens: INR 300
- 2. Travelers from around the globe: INR 1000
If you are wondering whether or not you can book your ticket offline, then let us tell you that you definitely can. For booking it offline you will have to visit the Hawa Mahal office at the entrance of the edifice. You can thank us later, wink*.
Note: We know that making a booking for places to stay or even the monuments can sometimes turn nerve-wracking. If you are someone who clearly wants to enjoy India without thinking about the future itinerary, then, we suggest you plan this Rajasthan tour with a travel agent. Do you have anyone in mind? No? Then, we can assure you that The Grand Indian Route will always at your disposal. We already told you we have got you covered. So, request a quote for India Rajasthan tour and Golden Triangle with Mandawa, we assure you, you will love what will come your way.
TIPS FOR HAWA MAHAL JAIPUR THAT WILL ALWAYS BE HELPFUL
- 1. Wake up early for the best shots! There is no better sight than that of the crime sun striking this beautiful orange edifice. Make sure you are there to capture it in all its glory.
- 2. If you can commit to waking up early, then, try visiting the palace during the golden hours (2:00 pm to 4:30 pm). This way you will be able to capture this pristine palace in multiple lightings.
- 3. Travel smart and look at the Google maps before deciding on any fare or even planning your day. For example, the Jantar Mantar and the City Palace both are at walking distance from the Hawa Mahal in Jaipur. It’s easier to see them all in one go. Look out for information like this.
- 4. You will find some beautiful craft pieces around Hawa Mahal. It is advised that you bargain or buy them instead of at the local market. Thank us later!
- 5. Staircases of the palace are dark and quite narrow. If you are claustrophobic then, mentally prepare yourself beforehand. You can carry a small torch too if you want.
- 6. Wear comfortable clothing and flat footwear as there is a lot of climbing and walking involved.
- 7. Don’t forget to visit the tiny museum the palace has on its premises. Disclaimer! There isn’t much there but if you are a history buff, it will be enough to curb your history cravings.
Karan Jaswal - Co Founder - Nominee
A man of exceptionally impressive management skills. An MBA graduate. He worked for a top German group before he decided to quit following his dreams.
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