Salim Singh Ki Haveli

Location: In the heart of Jaisalmer near Railway station
How to reach: Take a rickshaw ride to avoid traffic jam
Attraction: Architecture, chiefly balconies
Timings: Early morning till 5 P.M.

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.