The very sound of the word ‘Rajasthan‘ conjures up images of camels, endless deserts, and rolling dunes as far as the eyes can see. But Rajasthan has a lot more to offer than just deserts and camels. It’s an impressive place in India that showcases the grandeur of architectural marvels of the bygone Rajput era. This vibrant Indian state often described as the ‘Land of Maharajas‘, gleams with its architectural richness and regal heritage in the form of royal palaces, glorious monuments, and historic forts. Among them, you won’t want to miss the Hawa Mahal in Jaipur whose striking architecture, featuring pink latticed windows and balconies stuns. Constructed with stunning pink and red sandstone, it’s a true reflection of a splendid fusion of Mughal and Rajput architecture.
In this blog, we would like to share with you some Interesting Facts About Hawa Mahal In Jaipur. Hope you will like it:
The “Palace of Breeze”
The word Hawa Mahal literally translates to “Palace of Breeze” or “Palace of Wind”. The palace always remains windy inside, owing to its numerous windows (jharokhas). Hawa Mahal is named so due to this amazing ventilation that the palace enjoys.
Have no foundation
It is interesting to note that the entire palace is laid without any solid foundation. And you know, Hawa Mahal is considered to be the tallest buildings in the world without any foundations, even though it isn’t as tall as compared to the skyscrapers of the world. Even in the absence of a strong base or foundation, this five-storeys monumental palace managed to maintain upright because of its curved shape.
Designed in the shape of a Crown
Also Read:- UNESCO World Heritage Site – Jaipur
Hawa Mahal was built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799 and it resembles the shape of a crown. The Maharaja was an ardent devotee of Lord Krishna; hence, it is believed that the Hawa Mahal is designed in the shape of Lord Krishna’s crown.
Draws its inspiration from the Khetri Mahal in Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan
It is said that Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh who was so impressed with the beauty of the Khetri Mahal in Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan had decided to build a palace modelled on it. And Hawa Mahal in Jaipur was the result of that inspiration.
Built for Royal women
Hawa Mahal was built especially for Royal ladies to allow them to watch the day-to-day activities and festivities happening on the street without getting noticed by the public as they had to follow the stringent ‘purdah’ rule.
Have 953 windows
Also Read:- 5 Must-Visit Forts of Rajasthan
Hawa Mahal’s most striking attraction is its 953 windows which are colorful and intricately designed. The exceptional latticework on these windows enables the entry of fresh air into the palace which keeps it cool.
Have no front entrance
Unlike other palaces, there is no direct front entrance to Hawa Mahal and the only way to enter is from sideways of the City Palace. This is because Hawa Mahal was built as a part of the City Palace, so there is no separate entrance from outside to make an entry into this monument.
Have no stairs
Instead of regular stairs, there are only ramps to reach the top floors of the five-storied Hawa Mahal. The reason is that carrying palanquins of Rajput royal ladies on ramps was quite easier than steps.
Resembles a honeycomb
The windows or jharokhas of the Hawa Mahal, beautified with latticework are designed in such a way that it resembles a honeycomb.
Houses temples inside
Each of the five floors of the Hawa Mahal houses a temple in it. The first floor has Sharad Mandir while the Ratan Mandir with colorful glasswork is on the second floor. Vichitra Mandir, Prakash Mandir, and Hawa Mandir adorn the top three floors of Hawa Mahal.
Named after Hawa Mandir
Hawa Mahal is named after Hawa Mandir, a small temple placed inside the palace.
The most selfie taking place in India
Hawa Mahal is one of the most spectacular sights in Jaipur and has become one of the most selfie-taking places in India. Also, several Indian and international films have been shot at this scenic yet historic palace.
Cool in summers
Even though the temperature rises very high during the summer season, Hawa Mahal remains cool. This is because of the presence of a great many windows that embellish the palace. The fresh air that flows through the windows keeps the palace airy, and cool even during the summers.
Also Read:- Best Places to Visit in India
Hawa Mahal in Jaipur is truly spectacular and eye-catching and has always been praised for its opulence and unique architecture. If you have an eye for architectural wonders, make sure you make a stop at Hawa Mahal on your Rajasthan Trip.
How many of these facts about Hawa Mahal do you find interesting and how many you were aware of? We would like to hear from you.
Plan for your holidays in India and communicate your doubts and choices with Indian Panorama.
Keep reading Indian Panorama blogs and follow us on Instagram and Facebook for regular updates and beautiful pictures of India with soulful captions.
Travel with Indian Panorama. The most loved travel family.
Indian Panorama will help you to choose destinations and our Travel Guides will guide you to experience a joyous journey throughout the vistas of India.
Mail: enquiries@indianpanorama.in
Phone: +91 431 4226122
For more travel details and bookings, feel free to visit, www.indianpanorama.in and get a free quote for your tour itineraries.