Salim Singh ki Haveli

The Salim Singh Ki Haveli has constructed about 300 years ago in 1815 and has been named after its owner, Salim Singh Mohta. This haveli was built out of the remains of an older haveli present here that belonged to the 17th century, near the Jaisalmer Fort. After a certain period of its construction, the Haveli was occupied by the Mehta family of Jaisalmer, which was said to be the most influential family of their time.

This haveli is mainly known for its unique architectural design, in which its roof has been constructed in the form of a peacock, complemented by an exquisite pavilion. Salim Singh added two additional floors of wood to the original haveli to make it more spacious, grand and taller. The gateways of this Haveli are guarded by Jaisalmer Tuskers, which are made out of sand and stone and provides an appearance very close to living ones.

Its structure has 38 balconies, all with their unique designs and walls covered with imperial paintings of the Mughal style. The front facet of the haveli resembles a ship stern due to which it is also referred to as Jahazmahal. Within the haveli, there is also a ‘Moti Mahal’. This place was the one where its owners used to enjoy royal dances. Architecturally notable residence built-in 1815 with a peacock-shaped roof & numerous balconies. Salim Singh ki Haveli is one of the most well-known places in Jaisalmer and has been on the top of lists for being an amazing destination. It is located at the heart of the Jaisalmer city, near the Jaisalmer railway station. The various stately homes and havelis of Jaisalmer is a reflection of the fact that the city is an integral part of the rich history of Rajasthan. 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.

History of Salim Singh ki Haveli
The splendid 300 years old Salim Singh ki Haveli was built by the erstwhile Prime Minister of Jaisalmer- Salim Singh Mehta. Constructed in 1815, the haveli was built on the land of the older haveli standing on the same grounds which was occupied by the Mehtas themselves. Unlike the usual buildings constructed with cement and mortar, this one was constructed by joining stones with the help of strong rods.

Architecture of Salim Singh ki Haveli
Boasting of marvellous architectural patterns and designs, Salim Singh ki haveli is adorned by a beautiful blue cupola roof in the central segment. The central axis of the building is shaped like a giant ship; it is also believed that the structure of the haveli was inspired by a dancing peacock. For the same reason, the monument is also known as ‘Jahazmahal’ by the locals. The structure is tapering for the first two floors and then gradually branches out to pave way for the balconies. Dotted with a number of rooms, frescoes, pillars and courtyards, the USP of the Haveli is its 38 ‘jharokas’ i.e. balconies which are all different from each other. Flanking the magnificent entrance are two life sized replicas of mighty elephants which is also considered a symbol of high rank in Rajasthan.

In addition to that, the Haveli boasts of chiselled window screen, bracketed walls- all replete with beautiful elaborate carvings. Other than wide stone inlays and charming paintings adorning the panels, there are also shelved walls which are not just unique in nature but are also an example of excellent craftsmanship of the time. The latticed murals, wall paintings and half- timbered paintings are all reminders of the flamboyant ancient time and stand strong as a true testimony to the bygone era. It is also believed that originally the Haveli was built upto five storeys but the magnificent structure invited the envy of the king and so on his orders, two floors were demolished. The monuments still continues to have five floors and is one of the architectural wonders of Jaisalmer.