About Khetri Mahal
Khetri Mahal, also known as the Wind Palace, is an 18th-century ruined palace in Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan. Built around 1770 by Bhopal Singh, it features distinctive Shekhawati architecture with open portals designed for continuous airflow. The structure served as inspiration for Jaipur's Hawa Mahal and showcases fine paintings, murals, and interconnected ramps.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore the architectural ruins of this historic palace, characterized by arched openings, colonnaded rooms, and pinkish plaster. The site offers views of Badalgarh Fort from its terrace. Visitors walk through narrow lanes to reach the palace, which features expansive halls, marble pillars, and underground tunnels. The palace is primarily a sightseeing destination for history and photography enthusiasts.
Key highlights
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Distinctive wind-flow architecture with open portals instead of doors
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Inspiration for Jaipur's famous Hawa Mahal
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Fine Shekhawati paintings and murals
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Panoramic views of Badalgarh Fort from the terrace
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Interconnected ramps originally designed for horseback access
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Underground tunnels within the palace complex
History of Khetri Mahal
Constructed around 1770 by Bhopal Singh, grandson of Sardul Singh and founder of modern Khetri. Khetri was the second wealthiest Thikana under Jaipur. Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh of Jaipur was inspired by Khetri Mahal's unique structure and built Hawa Mahal in 1799 based on its design. Bhopal Singh was killed in the Second Battle of Loharu.
Culture & Context
Exemplar of Shekhawati art and architecture, known for innovative ventilation design with arched openings allowing uninterrupted airflow. The palace represents Rajput architectural heritage and influenced subsequent palace construction in Rajasthan.
Route
| By air | Nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport (approximately 170 km) |
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