Patwon Ki Haveli, Jaisalmer: How To Reach, Best Time & Tips

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Patwon Ki Haveli Overview

Patwon-ki-Haveli, a cluster of five intricately designed havelis in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, is a masterpiece of architecture and craftsmanship. Built in the 19th century by the wealthy Patwa family, these sandstone structures showcase exquisite carvings, intricate facades, and ornate balconies. Each haveli tells a story of affluence and artistic finesse, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a glimpse into the opulent history of Jaisalmer and its merchant class.

Known as the golden city of India, Jaisalmer is a beautiful city in Rajasthan. Among all the things that make this city popular, “Patwon Ki Haveli,” also known as the Mansion of Brocade Merchants tops the list.Patwon Ki Haveli is a cluster of five large havelis in Jaisalmer. Built in 1805 by Guman Chand Patwa, it took the workers almost 55 years to complete the first haveli. With an interesting history, Patwon Ki Haveli is actually the first and the largest haveli to be constructed in Jaisalmer. History says that Patwa was an extremely wealthy man and a well-known trader of his time.

Due to his riches, he could afford to build a luxurious palace and thus ordered the construction of separate stories – one for each of his five sons. The entire family dealt in gold and silver threads that were used in embroidering clothes and so, there was no dearth of money in the family. Discover the enchanting allure of Jaisalmer with our Jaisalmer package, offering a blend of golden landscapes, historic forts, and cultural richness.

Once home to the Patwa family, today the cluster of havelis is occupied by the Rajasthan government’s art and craft department. Its beautiful architecture, creative mirror work, intricate carvings, lovely paintings, and its rich goldish yellow color is what makes this cluster of havelis a favorite among tourists and locals alike.

How To Reach

The distance between Patwon Ki haveli and Jaisalmer Bus Stand is around 1.5 km. It is best to walk to the place since the haveli complex is situated in a narrow lane. However, one can also hire a rickshaw, auto or cab. You can either take the Gadisar Road route or the Hanuman Chauraha to reach Patwon Ki Haveli.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Patwon Ki Haveli is from September to February. It is because this is the time when the weather is pretty pleasant in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.

Mornings are pleasant and nights are cold. It is best to avoid a visit during the summer months since it can get really hot and unpleasant.

Other Essential Information

- Location: Patwon Ki Haveli is located near the Patwa Valley. The exact address is No. 3129, Near Chura Para, Rajasthan 345001

- Timing: The cluster of havelis is open to visitors from 8 AM in the morning to 7 PM in the evening.

- Entry Fees: The entry fee is INR 30 per person

Interesting facts About Patwon Ki Haveli

1. The gateways and arches of the havelis can be distinguished from one another due to their individual features. Each one of them depicts a certain style of mirror work and painting.

2. All five havelis are dedicated to the five Patwa brothers.

3. Patwon Ki Haveli was the second haveli to be built in Rajasthan and the first one to be built in Jaisalmer.

4. While the first haveli took the longest to be constructed, the other four were constructed in a span of 50 years.

5. Patwon ki haveli has over 60 balconies in the entire complex. One can see the courtyard of the complex from them and these balconies and windows also make the havelis very airy.

6. Intricate designs have been done on the gateways and arches of the havelis by people who were experts at that time.

7. Once a symbol of royalty, today the havelis are owned by the government and houses the offices of the Archeological Survey of India and the state’s art and craft department.

8. The whole complex of the haveli is made of yellow sandstone but the main gateway of the Patwon Ji ki Haveli is in brown colour.

Tips for Visiting Patwon Ki Haveli

1. Patwon Ki Haveli is situated in Jaisalmer, which stays pretty hot during summers and cold during winters. So, it is advisable to wear clothes according to the weather.

2. Patwon Ki Haveli is a huge complex. So, seeing around means a lot of walking. Thus, wear comfortable shoes so that you can walk and see the haveli complex properly.

3. Be it summer or winter, it is pretty sunny in the morning. So, carry hats and sunglasses so that you do not feel uneasy.

4. There are steep stairs in the haveli complex. So, this place is not recommended for aged people or people who have arthritis or knee problems.

Patwon Ki Haveli FAQs

Is the camera allowed inside Patwon Ki Haveli?

Yes, the camera is allowed inside Patwon Ki Haveli but at an extra price. You need to pay an additional 50 INR to carry your camera inside the complex.

Is it allowed to take food inside Patwon Ki Haveli?

No, you cannot carry food inside Patwon Ki haveli. However, food is available for purchase inside the complex.

How long does it typically take to cover the entire Patwon Ki Haveli?

It takes about an hour to complete the entire tour of Patwon Ki Haveli. However, if you wish to stop and admire the artwork and take a lot of pictures, you can stay back longer in the complex.

Why is Patwon Ki Haveli famous?

Patwon Ki Haveli is famous since it is the first haveli that was constructed in Jaisalmer. It is also famous because it is a cluster of five havelis and due to its exquisite and intricate artwork. It is one of the oldest havelis in Rajasthan and still extremely beautiful.