subject: The Patwon-ki-Haveli- Enjoy Jaisalmer's Architectural Wonders [print this page] The Patwon-ki-Haveli- Enjoy Jaisalmer's Architectural Wonders
The Thar desert is large, arid and solitary affording the perfect escape from the stress and hassle of city life. Jaisalmer, situated right in the midst of the great desert, is a unique place with much to offer tourists who come to get away from it all. The city is built on yellow sandstone, earning it the title 'the Golden City' and is a top tourist destination with many coming to see Jaisalmers architectural structures. The famous Palace on Wheels makes a scheduled stop here.
The Jaislamer Fort is an iconic site having a prominent place in the local film industry. The fort is a breathtaking structure with a tawny colour that becomes golden in hue as the sun sets. The Raj Mahal, or Royal Palace, along with a quarter of the city is located inside the fort. You can also find some really gorgeous Jain temples inside the fort reflecting the Jain heritage of this old city.
The havelis in Jaisalmer reflect the grandeur of a by gone era. There are four main havelis of which the Patwon-ki-Haveli is the largest. It was built to be the luxurious abode of a rich merchant and actually consists of five smaller havelis. It is built in the traditional style of Rajasthani architecture, with pillared halls and large corridors. The haveli is adorned with stunning murals depicting scenes from myth and tradition and exquisite mirror work can be found on the walls and ceilings.
Part of the Patwon-ki-Haveli is now a shop and sells local handicrafts. You can find beautifully crafted wood work, hand woven blankets and shawls and traditional rugs. Also on offer are intricately fashioned trinkets and jewellery, mirror work and stunning embroidery. The colourful crafts make good souvenirs and are a terrific way to remember this place.
For those wanting to escape the chaos of the city, Jaisalmer provides a quiet retreat. Of course getting away from the annoyances of modern life does not mean losing any of its conveniences. If you are looking for Jaisalmer hotels that provide you with modern luxuries but don't detract from the experience you can book a room (or even better a deluxe air conditioned tent) at the The Gateway Hotel Rawalkot Jaisalmer. The hotel offers fine dining, a spa and thanks to its elevation, amazing views of Jaisalmer. What can be better after an exciting day of Jaisalmer sightseeing than to come back to your hotel and unwind with some delicious room service as you watch the fading sunlight play off the historic fort.
