Patwon Ki Haveli: A Luxurious Desert Palace in Jaisalmer

In the ancient fort of Jaisalmer, India, there is a low-key yet luxurious aristocratic mansion - Patwon Ki Haveli. This complex of five interconnected havelis (meaning mansions) is not only one of the most magnificent private residences in Jaisalmer, but also a masterpiece of Rajasthani carving art. 👍 Recommended reasons ✨ The largest haveli in Jaisalmer: It is the earliest and largest aristocratic residence in the city, symbolizing the glory of the merchant family in the past. 🕌 Exquisite sandstone carvings: The entire building is carved from yellow sandstone, with extremely delicate carvings on the walls, balconies, and window lattices, showcasing the luxury of the past. 📜 A treasure of history and culture: Built in 1805 by the wealthy merchant Guman Chand Patwa for his five sons, it records the extreme prosperity of the merchant class at that time. 📷 A photography paradise: This golden palace-like mansion shines with warm light in the sun, like a luxurious dream of ancient India, making it a perfect spot for photography! 📅 Travel tips 🔹 Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM 🔹 Ticket information: About 50-100 INR (the specific ticket price may fluctuate, it is recommended to confirm in advance). 🔹 Highlights not to be missed: • Main building facade: The entire exterior wall of the building is covered with intricate carvings and hollowed-out window lattices, like a giant artwork. • Five havelis: Each mansion has a different architectural style and decoration, with murals, mirror inlays, and painted ceilings inside, showcasing the lifestyle of Indian aristocrats in the 18th-19th centuries. • Museum: Some rooms have been converted into museums, displaying the history of Jaisalmer, traditional costumes, antique furniture, and relics of merchant families. • Stained glass windows: The windows inside the house are inlaid with colorful glass, and under the sunlight, the interior is rendered with gorgeous light and shadow, stunningly beautiful. 🚗 Transportation tips 📍 Location: Patwon Ki Haveli is located on the east side of Jaisalmer Fort, only a 10-15 minute walk from the fort. 🚶‍♂️ Walking: Due to the narrow roads in the old city of Jaisalmer, walking is the best way to explore. 🚕 Tuk-tuk/taxi: If you don't want to walk, you can take a tuk-tuk to get there, which is affordable and full of local flavor. 💗 Other tips 📷 Photography tips: It is recommended to visit in the morning or evening, when the light is soft, to capture the most beautiful golden light and shadow. 🛍 Shopping nearby: There are many handicraft shops around, where you can buy local specialty embroidered fabrics, camel leather products, and silver jewelry as souvenirs. 🍛 Food recommendation: After visiting the haveli, you might as well go to a nearby rooftop restaurant to enjoy Dal Baati Churma, a classic Rajasthani dish that is rich and exotic! Patwon Ki Haveli is not only an architectural marvel, but also a historical scroll carved in sandstone. If you come to Jaisalmer, you must not miss this aristocratic palace in the desert!