Hawa Mahal

Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds, is one of the most iconic landmarks of Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. Known for its unique and stunning architecture, the Hawa Mahal is a five-story structure made of red and pink sandstone, and it is designed to resemble the crown of Lord Krishna, with its intricate lattice work and a series of windows.

History and Architecture

• Built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799, Hawa Mahal was constructed to allow the royal women of the court to observe street festivals, processions, and everyday life without being seen by the public, in keeping with the purdah system (the practice of women staying secluded).
• The structure is designed with 953 small windows, known as jharokhas, which allow the breeze to pass through, keeping the building cool in the hot desert climate of Jaipur. This clever design is the reason it’s called the Palace of Winds.
• The Hawa Mahal was designed by Lal Chand Ustad, and the building is a fine example of Rajput architecture with elements of Mughal and Persian styles.
• The palace is made of pink sandstone, and its façade is intricately carved with windows and balconies, making it one of the most photographed monuments in Jaipur.