Havelis of Jaisalmer

The beautiful Havelis in Jaisalmer made in all sandstone are amongst the major tourist attractions in Jaisalmer. These havelis were constructed by the wealthy merchants of Jaisalmer. These elaborate havelis seem to be a poem etched in sandstone. The exteriors and the interiors of these havelis are adorned by intricate carvings and infinite details. These lavishly built structures are nothing less than a treat for the eyes of the beholder.

Nathmal ki Haveli was built in the 19th century. It was earlier the house of the Prime Minister. The left and the right wings of the haveli are exactly identical. These were built and designed by two brothers. The major highlight of the Nathmal ki Haveli are the elephants in yellow sandstone. These are placed at the entrance of the haveli near its beautifully carved entrance doors. The minutest carvings that add to the beauty of the haveli seem as if done by a jeweler instead of a stone carver. This architectural marvel never fails to mesmerize the visitors with its majesty.

The most outstanding amongst all the havelis of Jaisalmer is the Patwon ki Haveli. It is located in the centre of the city, Jaisalmer. An apartment painted with beautiful murals is the most stunning part of the haveli. The Patwon ki Haveli was constructed by Guman Chand Patwa and his five sons. They were dealers in gold, silver and brocade embroidery and had a vast business. The five suites built by them inside the haveli between the years 1800 to 1860 AD are fine showpieces of the architectural wealth of Jaisalmer.

Salim Singh ki Haveli is a 300 year old building that retains the enigmatic old world charm till date. The haveli functioned as a residence to the former prime minister of Jaisalmer, Salim Singh. Even today, a portion of the Salim Singh ki Haveli functions as a residence to the royal families of Jaisalmer. The roof of the haveli has is decorated with beautifully carved brackets in the form of peacocks. The haveli being the pride of the fine architecture of Jaisalmer is admired by the tourists and the onlookers as well. The top of the haveli seems like a blossoming wild flower.

The havelis of Jaisalmer remind one of the bygone glory and royal nobility of Rajasthan. Nothing can greet a tourist better than the splendid and elegant Havelis of Jaisalmer during the Jaisalmer tour in Rajasthan, India.