• Jan 25 2016
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Patwa Haveli

Kothari's Patwon Ki Haveli displays architecture, interiors and artefacts depicting the heritage of Jaisalmer’s merchants. 

 

 

Built in the first half of the 19th century, Patwa Haveli is a cluster of five havelis (mansions) in the heart of Jaisalmer. These havelis were built by one of the city’s prosperous merchants, Guman Singh Patwa. The grandly constructed residences fell into disrepair as Guman Singh’s wealth dwindled, till they were taken over by the Archaeological Survey of India in 1974 and restored to their present condition. The main haveli known as Kothari’s Patwa Haveli has been turned into a museum famous for its architecture, interiors, and artefacts depicting the lifestyle and heritage of Jaisalmer’s merchants.

 

Apart from being a fine example of traditional Rajasthani architecture, Patwa Haveli (also known as Patwon ki Haveli) is also considered to be the first grand haveli commissioned in Jaisalmer. Constructed chiefly with yellow sandstone, the havelis rise up to multiple stories with latticed carvings and around sixty balconies or jharokhas. Each haveli consists of a courtyard surrounded by several rooms and arched doors and windows.