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Salim Singh Ki Haveli

Rajasthan is a well-known destination among tourists. Jaisalmer is acclaimed for its beautiful attractions and pieces of architecture. The mansions and havelis of Jaisalmer always attract the tourists. One such beautiful haveli is the Salim Singh ki Haveli. This haveli is as old as 300 years and is a lovely work of architecture.

The haveli has quite a unique and impressive architecture. Located close to the Jaisalmer Fort, the haveli stands in the heart of Jaisalmer. With well-carved walls and the facet resembling a ship stern, the mansion is also known as the Jahazmahal (ship palace). The mansion is best seen from the outside. There are occupants staying in the mansion, however, once can still pay it a visit. The haveli stands amidst serene and beautiful natural surroundings, next to the hills near the Jaisalmer fort.

History of Salim Singh Ki Haveli

The haveli was built in 1815 by the then prime minister of the princely state of Jaisalmer, Salim Singh. The haveli was built on the foundations of an older haveli, which was built towards the end of the 17th century. After the new haveli was built, it was occupied by the Mehta family. The Mehta family was among the most influential families during that time.

It is believed that once the haveli had two wooden storeys to make it as high as the King’s palace. But the upper storey was demolished on the command of the king. A visit to the haveli informs visitors about Salim Singh, his taste in architecture and also his nature.

Architecture

The architecture of the mansion is quite distinct. The roof of the mansion is built in the form of a peacock. The mansion has five storeys and every structure is carefully built and carved. The haveli has detailed work and has more than 38 balconies. The architecture of the mansion is so finely designed that no two balconies have the same pattern. The frescos on the ceilings and the blue cupola roof with its wonderful stone carvings and murals are worth observing.

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.

Major Structures


The Interiors

The haveli features several frescos, rooms and corridors. Tourists to the haveli get a glimpse into the intricate carving and architecture. The ceilings, walls and pillars feature beautiful paintings and carvings.

The Entrance

Just like other havelis the entrance of the mansion is guarded by two huge elephants carved from stone. The haveli dates to the medieval period and features traditional design and architecture.

Nearby Tourist Attractions

  • Jaisalmer Fort
  • Jaisalmer Sunset Point
  • Badal Mahal
  • Nathmal Ji ki Haveli
  • Folklore Museum

The haveli stands as one of the most visited attractions in Jaisalmer. The exquisitely carved roof and windows and screen make the haveli worth visiting. The haveli sits in the heart of the city making it easy for tourists to visit it.

How to Reach

The haveli sits close to the Jaisalmer railway station. Jaisalmer is a popular travel destination in Rajasthan and can be accessed easily by rail and road.

The city is located on Highway 15 and is linked to major towns and cities in Rajasthan by RSRTC buses. Some of the major cites connected to Jaisalmer include Jalore, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Ahmadabad Bikaner, Barmer, etc. Jaisalmer has two bus stations one on Shiv Road close to the Bank of Bikaner and Jaipur and the other opposite the railway station.

Jaisalmer has a railhead that offers connectivity for both broad gauge and narrow gauge trains. Tourists can find direct trains to Delhi and Jodhpur. The extravagant train ‘Palace on Wheels’ also makes a stopover at Jaisalmer.

There is no airport in Jaisalmer; the closest airport is in Jodhpur, which is about 300Km from Jaisalmer. The airport has flights connecting major cities of India to Jodhpur. From Jodhpur tourists can take taxis or trains to reach Jaisalmer.

The haveli remains open from 9:00 AM till 5:00 PM every day. Tourists have to pay a fee of Rs 50 to enter the mansion. Taking a camera is free of cost but taking a video camera costs Rs 50.

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