When it comes to interesting and exciting smoking pastimes, hookah is probably one of the most unique ones. For some, smoking hookah is a daily pleasure, while for others, it’s an occasional treat that helps them relax and enjoy their time.
No matter how devoted you are to smoking hookah, there certainly are some interesting facts about hookah you didn’t know about. If you’re interested in finding more about it, join us on this journey through history as we try to find some exciting facts that could give you a better insight into its origins, popularity, and why so many people get drawn into the magnificent world of hookahs.
What is Hookah?
While you probably already know the answer to this question, it’s a good idea to cover the basics before we dive deeper into the subject. In simple words, hookahs are typically water pipes used for smoking custom-made tobacco that usually comes in different flavors like coconut, apple, chocolate, and more.
Interesting Hookah Smoking Facts
Now that we have the basic idea of what constitutes a hookah, it’s time to focus on some exciting smoking hookah facts.
- Hookah Origins
Even though there are many theories surrounding the true origins of hookah, three versions stand out the most:
One suggests that waterpipe smoking was used as an anesthetic by Indians, Persians, and other locals. The first “versions” were rather primitive and were filled with pain-reducing narcotics.
A group of scientists found hashish pipes in Africa, dating to the 14th century. These are considered to be somewhat of a prototype and first versions of modern shisha.
Researchers in America have found used pumpkins on Indian lands, which were presumably used for smoking. This “contraption” is also an early version of modern bongs.
- Women Smoked Hookah More than Men
When water pipes became increasingly popular around the world during the 19th century, they were mainly associated with and recognized by women rather than men. The reason? The preparation for smoking sessions takes a reasonable amount of time, time which many men did not have. On top of that, only women from wealthy families had the luxury of enjoying some hookah in their spare time.

- Rejection was Associated with Bad Manners
While hookah is typically used to relax and have a good time with your friends in this modern-day and age, it wasn’t always like that. In the old days, hookahs were a mandatory part of the vast majority of dinner parties, and refusing to smoke was considered to be a sign of disrespect and insult toward your host.
- The Most Expensive Hookahs
Hookahs are inherently pretty simple devices. However, that didn’t stop some artists from making hookahs that could very well be labeled as pieces of art rather than smoking paraphernalia.
For instance, the most famous piece is made by Aurentum Switzerland, who has teamed up with two exceptional artists to create a one million dollar hookah. The base is made of 18cr gold accented with 24cr pieces. The mouthpiece is made of silver, and the connecting tubes are covered with Venetian velvet. Needless to say, you won’t be seeing too many people smoking from this particular piece. On the other hand, if you’re not keen on spending millions but would still like to have a nice pipe, there are heaps of de-luxe models costing anywhere from $2000 up to $70000 and more.
How did you like our hookah facts? Have you learned something new? If you’re looking to relax and enjoy your time with some friends, come by our hookah bar lounge, and we’ll be more than happy to indulge your needs!
If you’d like to read more about tobacco, hookah, and exciting things in general, don’t hesitate to read some of our other articles!