Salim Singh Ki Haveli was built in 1815 by Salim Singh, the prime minister of the kingdom when Jaisalmer was the capital. This mansion was not created with the help of cements and mortar- the stones are connected with strong iron rods.
This mansion is famous for its distinctive architecture as it is constitutes 38 gracefully carved balconies. The architecture of this mansion is inspired by dancing peacock. One of the most ambitious constructions of its times, the Haveli is so magnificent, that it even invited the ruler’s envy during its era.
At a distance of 1.5 km from Jaisalmer Railway Station, Salim Singh ki Haveli is an old edifice located at the heart of Jaisalmer city near Jaisalmer Fort. This beautiful architectural building is one of the major tourist places in Jaisalmer.
Salim Singh ki Haveli was built in 1815 CE by Salim Singh, the then Prime Minister of the kingdom when Jaisalmer was the capital. It is said that once the Haveli of Salim Singh had two additional wooden storeys in an attempt to make it as high as the maharaja’s palace but the Maharaja did not take this attempt in good spirit. Currently it has only five stories as the upper two tiers were demolished as per the order of the king.
The architecture of this haveli is unique as compared to the other havelis. This mansion was not created with the help of cements and mortar- the stones are connected with strong iron rods. The architecture of this mansion is inspired by dancing peacock. The mansion has five storeys and every structure is carefully built and carved. It is narrow for the first floors, and then the top storey spreads out into a mass of carving, with graceful arched balconies surmounted by pale-blue cupolas. The beautifully arched roof has superb carved brackets in the form of peacocks. The haveli consists of as many as 38 balconies and they all have distinct designs.
The entrance of the mansion is guarded by two huge elephants carved from stone. This haveli is also called as Jahaz Mahal, as the front facet resembles a ship stern. The walls and balconies are all covered with imperial paintings. The carved windows and grandly designed halls and rooms add to the charm of the haveli. The stone screens and the projecting windows keep the haveli cool even during the scorching summer heat. The mansion is a perfect example of the excellent craftsmanship of the people of that period.
About Salim Singh Ki Haveli
Salim Singh ki haveli is one of the most beautiful edifices situated in the heart of the Jaisalmer city. It happens to be one of the main tourist attractions in the city. It was renovated in the 19th century and was commissioned by Salim Singh who was the prime minister of that time. The haveli is also popularly known as Jahaz Mahal as the front facet of the monument has close resemblance with a ship stern.
The Salim Singh haveli is known for its architectural marvel and elegance. The haveli is almost 300 years old, however, the architecture is still enough to mesmerize the tourists. You will find the roof beautifully arched in the shape of a peacock. The haveli has 38 balconies designed with pale blue cupolas and each of the balconies have got their distinct shape. When you enter the Haveli, you will be welcomed by two elephants which are carved out of stones and the walls covered with countless imperial paintings.
There is one more Mahal inside the Haveli, which is known as Moti Maghal. You will surely be amazed by the glamour of the Mahal. It was once upon a time a place for aristocratic and royal courtiers. It is one of the must-visit places in Jaisalmer. You must plan a day to tour in and around the place in your travel itinerary. Let us get to know more about the haveli and its legacy.
How to Reach Salim Singh Ki Haveli
Reaching this architectural marvel would on no occasion be difficult for you. If you want to visit the Salim Singh Ki Haveli, then you need to reach Jaisalmer. As there is no airport in Jaisalmer, you need to fly to the nearest airport in Jodhpur which is almost 275 Km away.
After reaching Jaisalmer, you can easily take a cab to drive to the Haveli without any inconveniences. You can also find local buses as well as auto-rickshaws plying on the route to the Haveli every now and then.
Best Time to Visit Salim Singh Ki Haveli
If you want to explore the Haveli and all that Rajasthan has to offer, then it would be better to come in between the months of October and March. In this time, you will not be affected by the scorching sun as well as harsh weather. This period is considered to be the best for various sightseeing activities in Rajasthan, India’s hot capital.
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