Havelis

Many rich and influential traders of yesteryear built elaborate and intricately carved residences with latticed balconies, canopies, jharokas and jalis. Most popular havelis of Jaisalmer which still retain their grandeur are the:

• Patwaon ki haveli This is one of the most popular and important havelis in Jaisalmer. Being a cluster of five residences in a narrow lane, it is the biggest and most ornamented of the structures, and was built over a period of 50 years.
With the interiors of mirror halls and intricate stone work, it is no less than a palace. The exquisite facade, detailed delicate stone work, and beautiful interiors are testimony to the richness of its owner Patwa, who happened to be a trader of gold and silver brocade threads.
• Nathmal ki haveli Hailed as the most beautiful haveli with two large stone elephants standing guard at the entrance, this haveli was built by two brothers. The unique feature of this huge haveli is that none of the panels or jharokhas has the same design.
• Salim Singh ki haveli Also known as Jahazmahal for its front facade that resembles a ship stern, it was built in late 17th century. The construction of this haveli was commissioned by Salim Singh, who was the then prime minister of the kingdom. The distinct feature of this haveli is its roof that presumably is in peacock form, and its 38 balconies, each with a different design.