Patwon ki Haveli Jaisalmer Timings, Entry Fees, Tickets, History and What to Expect
Jaisalmer is a city that is famous for its stunning sandstone structures that reflect the golden hues of the desert. Among these, Patwon ki Haveli Jaisalmer stands out as a masterpiece of craftsmanship and elegance. Patwon ki Haveli Jaisalmer is not just a single building, but a complex of five different havelis, each with its unique features and charm. The havelis were built by a wealthy Jain merchant family, the Patwas, in the 19th century, and are considered to be the first and the largest haveli complex in Jaisalmer.
In this blog post, we will explore the history, architecture, and significance of Patwon ki Haveli Jaisalmer, and provide you with some useful tips on how to visit this amazing site.
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Patwon ki Haveli Jaisalmer Timings and Entry Fees
Patwon ki Haveli Jaisalmer is open to visitors from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm every day. The entry fee is 20 rupees per person for Indians and 100 rupees per person for foreigners. There is an additional fee of 50 rupees for a camera and 100 rupees for a video camera. The museum is located in the first haveli, which is also the most elaborate and well-preserved one.
The other four havelis are either privately owned or converted into hotels or shops. You can explore the Havelis at your own pace, or hire a guide to learn more about the history and architecture of the site. The guides are available at the entrance and charge around 100 to 200 rupees per group.
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Patwon ki Haveli Jaisalmer History
The Kothari’s Patwa Haveli stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and architectural grandeur of Jaisalmer, tracing its origins back to the early 18th century. This period marked a pivotal moment for the Patwa clan, initially, merchants faced challenges in establishing their trade.
Guided by a Jain priest, the Patwa brothers embarked on a journey from Jaisalmer, driven by the belief that their ventures would only prosper elsewhere. This decision set the stage for their eventual success, with their business interests expanding across banking, finance, silver trading, brocade, and opium trade.
Their prosperity led them to significant stature, to the extent of being solicited to support the state’s financial deficits, catalyzing their return to Jaisalmer. Defying the priest’s earlier counsel, Ghuman Chand Patwa, the family patriarch, bestowed upon his five sons individual mansions facing the majestic Jaisalmer Fort, crafting the iconic Patwa Haveli.
However, the tide of fortune ebbed as their prosperity declined upon their return, compelling the Patwas to leave Jaisalmer once more, leaving the Havelis in the care of guardians. Over time, these caretakers became proprietors, eventually selling the havelis.
The first haveli found a new owner in Mr. Jeevanlalji Kothari, a native who, like the Patwas, had ventured beyond Jaisalmer seeking opportunities. His acquisition of the haveli, renaming it as Kothari’s Patwa Haveli, was a nod to his roots and a desire to maintain a connection with his ancestral land.
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What to expect at Patwon ki Haveli Jaisalmer
Patwon ki Haveli Jaisalmer is a must-visit attraction for anyone who loves history, art, and architecture. The havelis are a marvel of craftsmanship and elegance and offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Patwa family and the heritage of Jaisalmer.
The havelis are decorated with intricate carvings, ornate balconies, and beautiful paintings, that reflect the fusion of Rajput and Mughal styles. The museum in the first haveli displays the artifacts and memorabilia of the Patwa family and the history of Jaisalmer, such as jewelry, costumes, coins, weapons, and documents.
The museum also has a section dedicated to the art and culture of Rajasthan, such as puppets, musical instruments, and handicrafts. The rooftop terrace of the first haveli offers a spectacular view of the city and the fort and is a great spot to take photos and admire the sunset.
The other four havelis are also worth exploring, as they have their unique features and charm. You can also shop for souvenirs, such as textiles, leather goods, and silver jewelry, at nearby markets and stalls.
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How to reach Patwon ki Haveli Jaisalmer
Patwon ki Haveli Jaisalmer is located in the heart of the city, near the Jaisalmer Fort. It is easily accessible by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Jaisalmer Airport, which is about 13 km away from the city. You can take a taxi or a bus from the airport to reach the haveli.
The nearest railway station is Jaisalmer Railway Station, which is about 2 km away from the city. You can take a rickshaw, a taxi, or a bus from the station to reach the haveli. The nearest bus stand is Jaisalmer Bus Stand, which is about 1 km away from the city.
You can take a rickshaw, a taxi, or a bus from the bus stand to reach the haveli. Alternatively, you can also walk or cycle to the haveli, as it is located in a narrow lane that is not accessible by vehicles.
Best Time to Visit Patwon ki Haveli Jaisalmer
The best time to visit Patwon ki Haveli Jaisalmer is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and comfortable. The temperature ranges from 10°C to 28°C, and the sky is clear and sunny. This is also the peak season for tourism in Jaisalmer, and you can enjoy various festivals and events, such as the Desert Festival, the Camel Fair, and the Basant Panchami.
The summer season, from April to June, is very hot and dry, and the temperature can reach up to 45°C. This is not a good time to visit the haveli, as you may get dehydrated and exhausted.
The monsoon season, from July to September, is humid and rainy, and the temperature ranges from 25°C to 35°C. This is also not a good time to visit the haveli, as you may face waterlogging and flooding issues.
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Final Thoughts on Patwon ki Haveli Jaisalmer
Patwon ki Haveli Jaisalmer is a splendid architectural gem that showcases the rich heritage and culture of Rajasthan. It is a cluster of five magnificent mansions that were built by a wealthy Jain merchant family, the Patwas, in the 19th century.
The Havelis are adorned with intricate carvings, ornate balconies, and beautiful paintings, and house a museum that displays the artifacts and memorabilia of the Patwa family and the history of Jaisalmer.
Patwon ki Haveli Jaisalmer is a must-visit attraction for anyone who loves history, art, and architecture and offers a mesmerizing journey into the opulent lifestyle of a bygone era and the architectural brilliance that defines Rajasthan.
