Hawa Mahal Tourism
Good to know things about Hawa Mahal
Architectural Marvel
Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh erected the Hawa Mahal as an addition to the City Palace in 1799. With its 953 little windows known as jharokhas, its five-story facade resembles the honeycomb of a beehive. These windows were built to allow royal ladies to observe street life and festivals without being observed.
Ventilation and Cooling
The name "Hawa Mahal" is Hawaiian for "Palace of Winds." The palace's smart architectural design serves a useful purpose. The numerous small windows not only allowed cold air to pass through the structure but also afforded vistas, making it an early kind of natural air conditioning. This feature was especially useful during Rajasthan's sweltering summers.
Pink City Symbol
The Hawa Mahal is a major icon of Jaipur, sometimes known as the "Pink City" because of the primary colour of its buildings. The palace is made of pink sandstone, which contributes to the city's overall pink hue. The pink colour was chosen to replicate the red sandstone architecture of Mughal cities, and it was further strengthened by Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II, who ordered the city to be painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales in 1876.
Purpose and Usage
Contrary to popular belief, the Hawa Mahal was primarily constructed as an extension of the women's rooms to allow the royal ladies to see the city's activities while maintaining their privacy. The pyramidal construction is more of a facade than a real palace with chambers. The interior is not as opulent as the outside suggests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Hawa Mahal is famous for tourism?
Can we visit inside Hawa Mahal?
Yes, though the finest view is from outside, spending at least half an hour inside is recommended to get a sense of the architectural magnificence. If you are short on time, you can avoid it because there are other things to do in Jaipur.
Does Hawa Mahal have entry fee?
What is the beauty of Hawa Mahal?
The Hawa Mahal, often known as the Palace of Winds, is one of Jaipur’s most recognisable attractions. This palace’s pink-colored sandstone front boasts exquisite lattice windows that display the city’s rich architectural past and traditions.
What is the best time of day to visit Hawa Mahal?
The ideal times to see the Hawa Mahal are at sunrise and sunset, when the golden sun rays illuminate the entire crimson and pink edifice in a captivating manner.