Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds, is a historical palace located in the heart of Jaipur, the capital of the Indian state of Rajasthan. Built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, Hawa Mahal is one of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks of Jaipur and is a popular tourist attraction.
The palace was designed by Lal Chand Ustad, an architect in the court of Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh. The palace is made of red and pink sandstone and features a unique design with over 900 small windows, called jharokhas, which are decorated with intricate lattice work. The jharokhas were designed to allow the royal women of the palace to observe the daily life of the city without being seen by the public.
The palace is built in the form of a five-story pyramidal structure, with the first floor having a width of about 50 feet and the remaining four floors tapering upwards. The palace is about 50 feet high and does not have any foundation, as it was built on a sloping hill. The design of the palace is inspired by the crown of Lord Krishna, with the jharokhas representing the peacock feathers on the crown.
Hawa Mahal is located in the heart of Jaipur, in the old city area known as Johari Bazaar. The palace is located on the edge of the City Palace complex and is situated on a busy street, which makes it easily accessible for visitors.
The palace has a total of five floors, with the first two floors being open to visitors. The first floor has a museum that displays artifacts and information about the history and culture of Jaipur. The second floor has a series of balconies that offer panoramic views of the city, including the Jantar Mantar Observatory and the City Palace.
The palace is also home to a small courtyard, which is surrounded by a series of small rooms and corridors. The courtyard was designed to provide a cool and refreshing environment, even during the hottest months of the year. The palace also has a series of fountains, which were designed to help cool the palace and provide a soothing sound for the royal residents.
The palace is known for its unique design and architectural features, which have made it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. The palace has been featured in several films and television shows, including the movie “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel.”
In conclusion, Hawa Mahal is an iconic palace that is known for its unique design and architectural features. Built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, the palace features over 900 small windows, or jharokhas, which were designed to allow the royal women of the palace to observe the daily life of the city without being seen by the public. The palace is located in the heart of Jaipur and is easily accessible for visitors. With its rich history and unique design, Hawa Mahal is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Jaipur.