13 Jan, 2023

Hawa Mahal of Jaipur: History, Architecture, Shopping & More!

 

 

Have you ever been to Hawa Mahal in Jaipur? If not, you are missing out on a unique experience of immersing yourself in the rich history of this beautiful landmark. Join us as we take a deep dive into the history and architecture of Hawa Mahal and explore why it is such an iconic site for tourists around the world. We will also take a look at some of the great shopping opportunities available at this popular destination!

 

Hawa Mahal, or the Palace of the Winds, is one of Jaipur's most iconic landmarks. Built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, it was designed to allow royal ladies to observe street festivals while remaining unseen by the public. The palace's five-story sandstone structure is adorned with 953 small windows, called jharokhas, each with an intricate lattice screen. These screens not only kept out the harsh desert sun but also allowed fresh air to flow through the palace, making it one of the earliest examples of climate control in architecture.

 

Today, Hawa Mahal is open to the public and is a popular spot for shopping and taking photos. The ground floor houses a museum with artifacts from the Rajput era, and the upper floors offer stunning views of Jaipur's skyline. If you're interested in learning more about Hawa Mahal and Jaipur's rich history, be sure to check out our blog article "Hawa Mahal of Jaipur: History, Architecture, Shopping & More!"

 

History of Hawa Mahal

 

The history of the Hawa Mahal is as fascinating as its architecture. The palace was built for the sole purpose of allowing royal ladies to observe street festivals while remaining unseen by the public. In fact, the name “Hawa Mahal” comes from the Hindi word for “wind,” as referring to the cool breeze that flows through the building.

 

Today, the Hawa Mahal is open to tourists who can explore its many rooms and courtyards. Shopaholics will also enjoy browsing the numerous shops selling traditional Indian arts and crafts that are located around the palace. So whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or shopping, be sure to add the Hawa Mahal to your list of must-see attractions in Jaipur!

 

Architecture of Hawa Mahal

 

The Hawa Mahal, or "Palace of the Winds," is one of the most iconic buildings in Jaipur, India. The palace was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh and is located on the edge of the City Palace complex. The five-story building is made of red and pink sandstone and has 953 small windows that allow air to circulate and keep the palace cool. The Hawa Mahal is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Jaipur and receives over 1 million visitors each year.

 

Shopping Options at Hawa Mahal

 

There are plenty of shopping options available at Hawa Mahal. From souvenirs to traditional Rajasthani handicrafts, you can find it all here. bargaining is a must if you want to get good deals.


Here are some of the best things to buy at Hawa Mahal:

 

1. Souvenirs: There are plenty of shops selling souvenirs at Hawa Mahal. You can find keychains, magnets, postcards, and more. Be sure to bargain for the best price.

 

2. Traditional Rajasthani Handicrafts: There are several shops selling traditional Rajasthani handicrafts such as block printed textiles, leather goods, and metalwork. Prices can be high, so again, be sure to bargain.

 

3. Spices: Jaipur is known for its spices, and you can find a great selection of them at Hawa Mahal. Be sure to buy in small quantities so you can try out different types and find the ones you like best.

 

4. Jewelry: India is famous for its jewelry, and Hawa Mahal has several shops selling both costume and fine jewelry. As with anything else, be sure to bargain for the best price.

 

Interesting Facts about Hawa Mahal

 

1. Hawa Mahal was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh.


2. It is located in the heart of Jaipur city, close to other important tourist attractions like Jantar Mantar and City Palace.


3. The palace has a unique architecture with its five-storey pyramidal structure and 953 small windows or 'jharokhas'.


4. The windows were specially designed to allow the royal ladies to observe street festivals while remaining unseen by the public.


5. Today, Hawa Mahal is a popular tourist destination and houses a museum on the top floor with displays of Rajasthani arts and crafts.


6. Visitors can also shop for traditional textiles, jewellery and other souvenirs at the shops lining the streets below the palace.

 

The Hawa Mahal of Jaipur is an iconic structure that stands as a symbol of the grandeur, beauty and history of Rajasthan. With its unique architecture, it has become one of the most recognizable monuments in India. Shopping around the Hawa Mahal gives visitors an opportunity to experience local culture and find souvenirs to take home. Whether you are looking for a cultural tour or just want to explore the city’s markets, visiting the Hawa Mahal is sure to be a memorable experience.