Hawa Mahal was commissioned by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799 and designed by Lal Chand Ustad. The purpose behind this exquisite creation was to provide the royal women a vantage point to observe everyday life and festivities on the streets below without breaking the strict norms of purdah. Made from red and pink sandstone, the palace reflects the essence of Rajputana architecture while also drawing inspiration from Mughal elements. The façade, with its 953 windows, creates a mesmerising play of light and shadow, especially during sunrise.

Though it appears as a towering structure from the street, Hawa Mahal’s back side resembles a modest building with rooms and corridors. It has no foundation and is the tallest building in the world without one. The pyramid-shaped structure tapers off with each level, which gives it strength and balance. Today, it houses a small museum displaying relics and miniature paintings. More than just a historical monument, Hawa Mahal is a symbol of Jaipur’s identity — blending function, aesthetics, and tradition seamlessly into one of the most iconic structures in India.