Located in the Lakkar Bazar of Shimla, Hawa Ghar is a beautiful gazebo, also popularly known as ‘Mall View Balcony’. It is one of the main tourist attractions where people come to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Himalayas staring right at them from Hawa Ghar. Not only can you enjoy the scenic mixture of the snow-capped mountains but also the local biodiversity, temples and valleys, and the cool breeze that enters the pavilion from all sides. It’s not too far from the main railway station and very accessible and open to anyone who wishes to come.
History Of Hawa Ghar
Image Credit: manmeet sharma for Wikimedia Commons
During British rule and even before, these gazebos or Hawa Ghars were built either in the center of the city or the best spots to use as viewpoints for people to explore an entire view of the town or a particular place. Hawa Ghar in Hindi means House of Wind and as its name suggests, Hawa Ghar in Shimla was made for people to spend time here in the coming breeze and revel in the open views. It is also called ‘Airy House,’ and ‘Mall View Balcony’. It is made in a way that aligns with the breezy Himalayan view.
Must Read: Annandale In Shimla
Location & Timings Of Hawa Ghar
Image Credit: sushmab for Wikimedia Commons
Hawa Ghar is located at the very famous Lakkhar Bazaar, which lies at the rim of Shimla. It is situated about 1.5 km from Shimla Mall Road. The best part about this structure is that it is open 24 hours a day for anyone to visit and explore. Mall Road is only a fifteen-minute walk away from the city center and one of the major tourist spots in Shimla. Nearby lies a beautiful, open canopy, the Hawa Ghar.
Activities To Do At Hawa Ghar
Image Credit: Vyacheslav Argenberg for Wikimedia Commons
Due to the intense, pleasant breeze along the Hawa Ghar, you can take a leisure walk around the area and the Mall Road for fun local sightseeing. There are numerous water ponds and water fountains along the way that make the atmosphere cooler for you while also enhancing the beauty of the place. This area around Hawa Ghar has many other landmarks too like the Shimla The Beautiful City Park is a must-visit if you are walking near the area. Shopping is one of the main attractions here and you can find really good winter clothes in Shimla. You will encounter a lot of small markets, shops, cafes, and restaurants in the same area leading to Mall Road where you can stop by, shop, eat and have fun.
Suggested Read: Kulhi Katandi
Places To Visit Near Hawa Ghar
If you are done resting and ready to explore the nearby places,, we have prepared a list of places you can visit in Hawa Ghar.
1. Kali Bari Temple
Image Credit: Rahulraees for Wikimedia Commons
It is a Hindu temple located on Bantony Hill, Shimla. This temple was built in dedication to the reincarnation of Goddess Kali ( Shyamala) after which the city of Shimla was named. Constructed in 1823 by a Bengali Brahmin Ram Charan Brahmachari, the Kali Bari Temple lies in the area of Rothney Castle on Jakhoo Hill. It is one of the oldest temples in Shimla and features very peculiar Hindu-style sculptures and architecture, along with a unique blue-coloured idol of the goddess Shyamala. Seeking her blessings would be a highlight for each tourist.
2. Gaiety Theatre
Image Credit: Puneet.v.30 for Wikimedia Commons
Gaiety Theatre or Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex is a vintage theatre in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. It is situated on The Ridge. It is the place where almost all cultural events take place with a seating capacity for around 300 people. You might have seen this landmark in many Bollywood movies as well. Many musical albums and movies have been shot here. The theatre was established on 30 May 1887, by the English architect Henry Irwin. The Gothic Revival architecture derived from the British Victorian era makes it a remarkable tourist spot as people flock here to know more about its historical significance. If you are into vintage spots with a deep background, then Gaiety Theatre in Shimla is for you.
Suggested Read: Moti Tibba
3. Christ Chuch
Image Credit: ShashankSharma2511 for Wikimedia Commons
The Christ Church Kasauli was built by the British family who had also founded the town of Kasauli. The church is a glorious structure constructed in the shape of a cross. You can find a few chestnut and fir trees surrounding the monument that offer the area a calm and pleasant air. This church was earlier an Anglican church that was founded in the year 1844. It is quite near to the bus stand as well. Do take a visit!
4. Green Valley
Image Credit: Neerajchan29 for Wikimedia Commons
The Green Valley is a picturesque mountain range that lies in the middle of the way from Kufri to Shimla. It is surrounded by lush hills everywhere and covered with thick pine and deodar forests. People have often spotted a lot of Yaks grazing around in the forests filled with deodar and pine trees. There is a rich biodiversity of both flora and fauna here and it is also an attraction to movie directors and photographers who like to catch a glimpse of the beautiful view of this valley. Wouldn’t you also want to experience the same in reality?
Suggested Read: Langza
5. Manki Point
Image Credit: generalising for Wikimedia Commons
It is located at the highest peak in the town of Kasauli and is managed by the Air Force station. It lies at an elevation of 300 meters and is also known as ‘Monkey Point’ where you obviously will find a lot of monkeys. Not only does it have historical value, but it is also a holy place for Hindus. It is believed that Lord Hanuman came here to find Sanjeevani Buti and save Laxman’s life. It has great historical value and tourists love to come here and revel in the splendour of this spot.
How To Reach Hawa Ghar
Image Credit: Vyacheslav Argenberg for Wikimedia Commons
By Air
The nearest airport is Shimla Airport, where you can take a flight.
By Road
Shimla has very good road accessibility, and since Hawa Ghar lies in the main Shimla area, it is quite easy to find a taxi or book a private car to reach your destination.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Shimla Railway Station from where you can take a private car or a taxi to drive 20 minutes towards Hawa Ghar.
Further Read: Nehru Kund
Hawa Ghar is sure to tire you as it gives you the option to shop and explore places. You can choose to rest but if you feel like exploring then this guide has all the information that you need to know. Now that you have a full guide to plan your next trip to Himachal Pradesh, book your tickets as soon as possible to not miss out on what this wonderful location has to offer.
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Cover Image credit : By Aasiflone.123. for Wikimedia Commons.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hawa Ghar
What is the usual weather in Shimla like?
Shimla experiences weather that averages between around 15 - 25 ° C throughout the year. April to June and then January would be the best months to visit Shimla.
Is good accommodation available near Hawa Ghar?
Yes, since it lies near Mall Road, there are several hotels and lodges of all budgets and types that you can book for yourself, friends, and family.
Is there an entry fee for Hawa Ghar?
Hawa Ghar is free for all to come and sit anytime. No entry fee or charges to visit.
Is there a time restriction at Hawa Ghar?
It is open 24 hours for everyone to come whenever sit amid the Himalayan breeze and go. No time restrictions!
What to wear in Shimla?
It is advisable to wear good quality woolen clothes during the winter as Shimla receives heavy snowfall. Summers are pleasant and you can wear light clothes. But good hiking shoes are a must because many tourist spots require a hike.
People Also Read:
