Hawa Mahal: Visakhapatnam's Palace of Winds

Discover Visakhapatnam's Hawa Mahal: A historic palace offering stunning architecture and sea views, once a royal summer retreat.

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Hawa Mahal

Hawa Mahal, meaning 'Palace of Winds,' is a historic palace in Visakhapatnam built between 1917 and 1923. Constructed as a summer retreat for the royal family of Jeypore, it showcases a blend of Indo-Gothic architecture and offers stunning sea views.

A brief summary to Hawa Mahal

P846+XP4, Dr NTR Beach Rd, Visakhapatnam, Krishnagar, Krishna Nagar, Maharani Peta, Andhra Pradesh, 530002, IN

Local tips

Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the soft lighting for better photos.
Check local event listings, as Hawa Mahal often hosts art exhibitions and cultural events.
Take a stroll along Dr. NTR Beach Road to enjoy the sea breeze and surrounding views.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Visakhapatnam Railway Station, head to the nearest bus stop and look for buses heading towards 'Maharani Peta' or 'Krishnagar'. The bus fare is typically affordable. Get off at the stop closest to Dr. NTR Beach Road. From there, walk towards the beach; Hawa Mahal is located on Dr. NTR Beach Road, near the coast.
Auto Rickshaw

From any location in Visakhapatnam, hire an auto rickshaw to take you directly to Hawa Mahal. Simply tell the driver 'Hawa Mahal at Dr. NTR Beach Road, Krishnagar'. Negotiate the fare before starting your ride. Expect to pay around ₹80-₹150 for a short trip within the city.
Walking

If you are staying nearby in Maharani Peta, head towards Dr. NTR Beach Road. Follow the road towards the beach, and you will find Hawa Mahal along the beachfront. Use a map app on your smartphone for accurate navigation.

Discover more about Hawa Mahal

Hawa Mahal, translating to 'Palace of Winds', is an iconic historical landmark located on Beach Road in Visakhapatnam. Constructed between 1917 and 1923, this palace served as a summer residence for the Maharajas of Jeypore. Maharaja Ram Chandra Dev IV commissioned its construction as a coastal retreat and transit point when traveling to Madras. The palace's architecture is a unique blend of Indo-Gothic styles. The symmetrical two-story structure features twin octagonal projections, wooden windows framed by arched openings, and high Madras roofing with Burma teak to keep the interiors cool. The design cleverly captures the refreshing sea breeze, offering respite from the heat. Over the years, Hawa Mahal has hosted numerous eminent personalities, including India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, and first President, Rajendra Prasad. It has also served as the city's first Women's College and a nursing school. Today, Hawa Mahal stands as a cultural venue, hosting civic events, art exhibitions, and other gatherings.