Jaisalmer city, is known for its massively decorative havelis. Nathmal ki Haveli is a major tourist attraction of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. This haveli was built by Maharawal Bairisal, King of Jaisalmer in the end of 1885. The haveli was commissioned by him, to serve as the residence of his prime minister, Diwan Mohata Nathmal; who resided in this haveli, and thus the ornate haveli got its name. This haveli is famous for its carvings, lattice works, floral patterns, and other royal Rajasthani styled architectural elements.
Today, this opulent haveli has a collection of elements and every-day articles, which describe the lifestyle of the ancient wealthy class people during their heydays. The intricately-carved floral patterns and lattices represent the life and times of the 18th century royalty and nobility in Jaisalmer state. A person with expert eyes can figure out that the haveli is built in two different styles on either side. This is because the two main architect brothers’, Lulu and Hathi, who were Muslims; had a conflict on how the haveli is to be built; and they split their work. As a result of clash between the two, one brother started work on left side and other one on the right side.
The architectural differences in construction approach of the two brothers; can be seen on two sides of the haveli. They are constructed differently with two very distinct architecture, yet there is remarkable harmony between the two sides. As per facts, construction of this mansion started from two points at the same time and two different havelis were built independently. Apart from its extraordinary outer carvings, this haveli is known for its beautiful interiors, filled with miniature paintings on walls and pillars. The paintings include images of horses, cattle, as well as modern amenities like fans, cars etc.
There ae also numerous floral paintings on pillars and walls. It is believed that the two architect brothers didn’t see many things themselves; yet created the images based on the description given by people who had actually seen them. Nathmal ki Haveli is among the top tourist landmarks of Jaisalmer. An amalgamation of Islamic and Rajputana architecture, Nathmal Ki Haveli is located at walking distance from Jaisalmer Fort, just 2-3 minutes from the 5 identical Patwon ki Haveli. Its location justifies its description as being one of the most beautiful havelis and one of the biggest tourist landmarks in the historic city of Jaisalmer.
Two huge life-sized replica statues of elephants made of yellow sandstones on either side of entrance door stand out; as they welcome every tourist and shopper to the haveli. When the suns’ rays fall on the elephant structures, they radiate like gold; just like the Jaisalmer fort, which is also called ‘Golden Fort’. The craftsmanship on both wings of the haveli is amazing, especially worth mentioning is the intricate carvings on the multiple jharokhas or balconies throughout the haveli. It is believed that the main chamber inside the haveli has been carved out using solid rock boulders placed together, and lot of gold leaf’s have been used in the painting in the interiors of the mansion. Till date, a part of the Haveli is occupied by its original residents, i.e., the descendants of Diwan Mohata Nathmal.
No entry fee is charged to tourist, whether Indian or foreigner for visiting the Nathmal ki Haveli. Tourists are also free to take pictures and videos inside the haveli. There is a small shop inside the haveli, from where tourists can buy Rajasthani handicrafts and souvenirs; and other many interesting things, if they are interested in shopping for Rajasthani gift items. The haveli is open from 10 AM in the morning to 6 PM in the evening for visitors. The spacious courtyards in the middle of the haveli have been built in such a manner that they help regulate fresh air on the inside of the mansion, whatever the climate and weather on the outside.
Best time to visit the Nathmal ki Haveli, located in the heart of the city in Sadar Bazar area of Jaisalmer; is from October to March during winter months when the weather is cool and breeze blows with very less humidity. Summer and rainy seasons are best avoided for the extreme heat and humidity, being surrounded by the Thar desert. Tourist can reach the haveli from any part of the city, while going towards the fort by car, taxi or bus. The tourist can choose to visit the haveli; either before or after visiting the Jaisalmer fort, the biggest landmark of the city. It generally takes around two hours at least to explore the entire haveli. Jaisalmer is well connected by road, rail and air with all major cities of India.
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