For many centuries, Rajasthan was ruled by the Rajput Maharajas who lived in luxurious and splendid Havellis. Most of these architectural structures are still present in Rajasthan. It is the epitome of the rich cultural heritage of the country. There are many beautiful Havellis in the city of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan. Some of the most popular Havellis in Jaisalmer include the Patwon-Ki-Havelli, Salim Singh-Ki-Havelli, Nathmal-Ki-Havelli and so forth.
Patwon-Ki-Havelli
Patwon Ki Haveli
The Patwon-Ki-Havelli was built in between 1800 and 1860 by Guman Chand Patwa and his five sons. It is one of the most attractive tourists’ destinations in Jaisalmer. The Patwon-Ki-Havelli is a group of five Havellis. The biggest Havelli was built by Guman Chand and it is known to be the most ostentatious palace in Jaisalmer. According to history, the emperor built five separate Havellis for his five sons. The entire construction was completed in a span of sixty years.
As the members of the royal family were traders of gold and silver threads used for embroidering dresses, these Havellis were known as the ‘Mansion of the Brocade Merchants’.
Patwon Ki Haveli Jaisalmer
The Mansion is now occupied by the government for various purposes. A part of the Havelli is used as a museum with a rich collection of historical artifacts, paintings and other household items. The entire Havelli is built of yellow sandstone and displays exquisite artistic skills. There are beautiful mirror works on the walls of the Havelli which depict the cultural heritage of the country.
Salim Singh-Ki-Havelli
Salim Sing-Ki-Havelli was built by the Mehta family of Jaisalmer in the year 1815. It was built on the remains of an old Havelli. Salim Singh, the then prime minister of Jaisalmer built the Havelli for his family. The Mehta family was known to be among the most influential families in the city of Jaisalmer.
Salim Singh Ki Haveli - Jaisalmer
The Havelli is known for its architectural beauty and unique designs. The roof of the Havelli is designed in the shape of a peacock. There are 38 balconies in the Havelli and each balcony has unique shapes and designs. With chiseled window screens, wide corridors, bracketed walls and stone elephants, the Salim Singh-Ki-Havelli is one of the most visited places in Jaisalmer.
The gateways of the Havelli are guarded by tuskers. This elegant and luxurious Havelli is made of sandstone and is known to be one of the most important tourists’ destinations in Jaisalmer. The Havelli is also known as the Jahazmahal as the front side of the Havelli resembles a ship.
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