Jaisalmer is home to magnificent traditional and decorated residences and one such enormous building is the Patwon ki Haveli. Also known as the Mansion of Brocade Merchants, this Haveli is a cluster of five Havelis.
These mansions were used as residences for royal family members and as you roam in the extensive courtyard you can witness the opulence that lingers in the nooks and corners of these Havelis.
History of Patwon ki Haveli
Patwon ki Haveli was built in 1805 by Guman Chand Patwa. During this time, the Patwas were trying to establish their trade. It is believed that a saint had advised the Patwas to leave Jaisalmer and never return and only then can they flourish. They left and truly they rose to great heights. They returned to Jaisalmer to finance the state deficit. It was then that Guman Chand Patwa built these 5 mansions for his 5 sons. However, their life took a turn and they started to lose all their wealth and they once again left Jaisalmer. The mansions were left in the hands of caretakers.
The caretaker approached Mr. Jeevanlalji Kothari who had bought the first haveli. This is the reason why Patwon ki Haveli has been renamed Kothari’s Patwa Haveli.
Architecture of the Patwon ki Haveli
The largest and the oldest mansion complex in Jaisalmer, Patwon ki Haveli is built with yellow sandstone. The main gateway to the haveli, however, stands out with a brown colour. The first haveli is the most stunning one out of the five with ornate mirrored walls, and painted ceilings. There are several windows and balconies with spectacular views in the complex that make the indoors airy and comfortable during the hot summer months.
Entry fee and timings
The complex is open for visitors from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. For Indian tourists, the ticket fee is ₹50, while for foreigners