Going through several havelis in Jaisalmer is certainly a absolute treat.
If in the earlier part of Rajasthan history, Rajput architecture dominated the scene. A little later came in the Islamic influence which resulted in a fantastic fusion of the two. This era saw the construction of most of the havelis which served as the residence of rich traders.
Patwon ki Haveli
The most famous among these is Patwon ki Haveli that pioneered the trend. This Haveli was the first to be made in Jaisalmer and that’s why it carries immense significance.
Cluster of Seven Small Havelis
The Patwon ki Haveli is a cluster of seven small havelis adorned with intricately latticed work. The biggest and the most grandiose haveli, this one was constructed in 1805 A.D by Guman Chand Patwa, a rich trader who set the trend.
He could afford and thus ordered the construction of separate stories for each of his 5 sons. These were completed in the span of 50 years. All five houses were constructed in the first 60 years of the 19th century.
Mega Structure Features
This mega structure features five suites and a number of balconies projecting from different storeys. Its intricately carved facade with pillars and balconies is one picture worth capturing. It is an open air museum and has preserved for centuries the heritage of the rich merchant class and the architecture of Rajasthan.
Now the haveli has been taken over by the government. A tour through the haveli will lend an interesting insight in to the lifestyle of the rich traders.
