The buildings facing Hawa Mahal across the street have capitalised on their position with rooftop cafés that offer the best photograph of Jaipur's iconic pink façade — the 953-window honeycomb wall is best captured from a slightly elevated position across the street, and a number of cafés in these buildings (Tattoo Café & Lounge, Wind View Café) serve Indian and Continental food on their terraces with the Hawa Mahal filling the frame.
The best time for the photograph is early morning (before 9 AM) when the sun strikes the pink sandstone directly and the streets below are still quiet. The cafés serve full meals and reasonable coffee — the prices are tourist-tier but the view justifies the premium. Most are accessed via narrow staircases from the jewellery shops on the ground floor.
Verified Facts
Hawa Mahal has 953 small windows (jharokhas)
The best photograph is from rooftops directly across the street
Early morning light best illuminates the pink sandstone
Cafés are accessed via the jewellery shops at street level
Get walking directions
Johri Bazaar opposite Hawa Mahal, Jaipur
