Revealed: The True Purpose Behind Jaipur's Iconic Hawa Mahal

Rajasthan is home to many historical marvels and Hawa Mahal located in Jaipur city is one of them. Hawa Mahal, a rose-tinted sandstone built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, is renowned for its pink latticed balconies and windows. These offer a mesmerising view of the city. In an interaction with the Local 18 Rajasthan, Hawa mahal tourist guide Ashok Karadiya has revealed the intent behind building such a splendid palace. The tourist guide said that the idea behind creating this palace was to allow the ladies of the royal palace to watch all events unfolding on the streets. It is because the women were not permitted to go out and hence they could not know what was happening inside. After the Hawa Mahal was built, the ladies could watch everything including Teej (one of the most prominent festivals). However, they could do so from a minutely-crafted window latticework. Ustad Lal Chand, the chief architect of the Hawa Mahal, designed the windows of the Hawa Mahal, known as the Jharokhas so that everything was visible from the inside. Nothing from the outside. Hence, the women could peek out without getting spotted in return.

No staircase

There are no stairs for climbing in Hawa Mahal, a 5-storeyed building. There are ramps to help visitors reach the top floors.

Why it is called Jaipur’s Crown

It is because Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, the ruler who commissioned this building, was a devotee of Lord Krishna. The Hawa Mahal is dedicated to the Lord Krishna and the building’s shape resembles the crown of the Lord. Therefore, it also came to be known as the crown of Jaipur. 3 Temples are also built inside the palace. The guide Ashok said that besides Teej, the Gangaur festival was also celebrated with great joy.

How to reach Hawa Mahal

To reach Hawa Mahal, you will have to reach Jaipur railway station or bus stand. After this, you can go to Hawa Mahal by local train. Direct trains run for Jaipur from many states including Delhi. Jaipur also has a bus stand, from which you will get a direct bus from Kashmiri Gate. Hawa Mahal is open from 9 am to 6:30 pm. To see the palace you will also have to buy a ticket for Rs 10.