As you set your eyes upon this palace, it may strike you as reminiscent of a bee hive, especially if you know its origins. The Hawa Mahal or Palace of The Winds in Jaipur spans 5 storeys and is made of red and pink sandstone resembling a pink honeycomb hive from its exterior. Essentially, this palace was built for royal ladies, not too distant from the Queen Bee metaphor, to observe the street activities and festivals of the regular folk, without being seen by the public.

Built in 1799, the purpose of this was to follow the strict tradition of “pardah”, whereby Rajput royal women were not allowed to be seen by strangers, or seen in public. Best seen during sunrise, the Hawa Mahal is distinctly gorgeous as the golden rays of the sun shine upon it, bathing it in an ethereal light. For one of the best views in Jaipur, make your way to the Hawa Mahal.