With its delicate latticework and striking pink façade, Hawa Mahal is one of the most photographed and admired landmarks in Jaipur. The five-story palace was designed to allow royal women to observe everyday life and processions without stepping outside. In this Hawa Mahal tour guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know—its fascinating history, unique architecture, opening hours, entry fees, and the best time to visit. Keep reading to explore the charm and legacy of the Palace of Winds like never before.

Architecture & History of Hawa Mahal

The history of Hawa Mahal is as unique as its appearance. Built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, this architectural gem was created for the royal women of Jaipur to quietly watch street festivals and daily life unfold below, without being seen by the public. Designed by Lal Chand Ustad, the palace is shaped like the crown of Lord Krishna, reflecting the king’s devotion.

What truly sets Hawa Mahal apart is its stunning structure, five stories high and adorned with 953 finely carved jharokhas (small windows). These tiny windows, along with intricate latticework, allowed cool air to circulate through the palace, offering natural ventilation in the scorching desert heat. This clever design earned it the name “Palace of Winds.”

Unlike traditional palaces, Hawa Mahal is all about the exterior. The interior is quite simple, with narrow passages and sloped ramps connecting the levels. Yet, the combination of function, beauty, and symbolism makes it one of the most fascinating structures in Rajasthan.

How to Reach Hawa Mahal

Located in the heart of Jaipur, Hawa Mahal is easily accessible from all parts of the city. If you're wondering how to reach Hawa Mahal, here are a few convenient options:

• By Auto-rickshaw or Cab: These are the quickest and most popular ways to reach the palace, especially if you're staying nearby or exploring other sights in the city.
• By Bus: Several local buses stop near Badi Chaupar, just a short walk from Hawa Mahal.
• On Foot or Bicycle: If you're exploring the Pink City area, Hawa Mahal is just a short walk from places like City Palace and Jantar Mantar, and it’s ideal for a stroll or bike ride through the heritage lanes.

Hawa Mahal Timings

Being aware of the Hawa Mahal timings helps you enjoy a relaxed and well-paced visit to one of Jaipur’s most iconic landmarks. The monument is open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, including weekends and holidays. For the best experience, try to arrive early in the morning when the soft sunlight beautifully illuminates the palace's pink structure, and the crowds are fewer.

Hawa Mahal Entry Fee

A prior knowledge of the Hawa Mahal entry fee ensures a smooth start to your visit and helps you plan your Jaipur sightseeing budget wisely. Here are the current ticket prices for visiting Hawa Mahal:

• Indian Tourists: ₹100 per person
• Foreign Tourists: ₹550 per person
• Students (with ID): ₹10 (Indian) / ₹100 (Foreign)
• Children below 7 years: Free entry
• Composite Ticket (for multiple monuments): ₹300 for Indians & ₹1,000 for Foreigners (valid for 2 days and includes entry to Amber Fort, Jantar Mantar, City Palace, and more.)

Best Time to Visit Hawa Mahal

The best time to visit Hawa Mahal is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant for walking around and sightseeing. Early mornings are ideal—not just to beat the crowds but also to see the front façade glow beautifully in the soft golden light of sunrise. Avoid midday visits, especially in summer, as it can get quite hot and crowded.

Here are a few useful Hawa Mahal tour tips to make your visit even better:

• Visit early in the day to enjoy better lighting and fewer crowds.
• Wear comfortable footwear, as there are ramps and narrow passages inside.
• Don’t skip the view from the top—you’ll get fantastic shots of Jaipur’s busy streets and nearby monuments.
• Hire a local guide or use an audio guide app to understand the history and design better.
• Carry water and sun protection, especially during warmer months.

A trip to Hawa Mahal offers a perfect blend of history, architecture, and culture—all in the heart of Jaipur. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning traveller, this iconic palace is sure to leave you mesmerised.