subject: Patwon Ki Haveli [print this page] Patwon ki haveli is one of the most elaborate and fascinating mansions in Jaisalmer. The Patwon Ji ki Haveli is an interesting piece of Architecture and is the most important among the havelis in Jaisalmer. This is precisely because of two things, first that it was the first haveli erected in Jaisalmer and second, that it is not a single haveli but a cluster of 5 small havelis. The haveli was constructed in the year 1805 by Guman Chand Patwa.
Patwon-Ki-Haveli is the largest and most elaborate haveli in Jaisalmer. This five-storeyed building extensively carved and is notable for its jharokhas (balconies).
Introduction
Rajasthan and in particular Jaisalmer is well known for its rich culture and intricately designed marvels of the architecture, which have won Jaisalmer a distinctive place in the hearts of tourists from around the world. One such marvel is the truly royal and magnificent cluster of Patwa Havelis.
Patwa Havelis are a cluster of five havelis aligned in a narrow lane in the heart of the city. Of the five havelis, the first haveli in the lane aka the Kotharis Patwa Haveli is not only extraordinarily preserved and restored but is also open to visitors to experience the lifestyle of the erstwhile patwas.
History
The history of the Kotharis Patwa Haveli dates back to early eighteenth century, when the patwas were struggling to set up their trade and business. On the advice of a priest at the Jain Temple, the patwa brothers left Jaisalmer with the intention of never returning (they were advised by the priest that their business could not flourish in Jaisalmer). The legend has it that the patwas were immensely successful thereafter and their business spanned across banking & finance, silver, brocade and opium trade.
Museum and Merchandise
Kotharis Patwa Haveli has been privileged in welcoming and entertaining various visitors from all walks of life. Currently the Kotharis Patwa Haveli is accessible as a museum housing exclusive furnishings and accessories of the erstwhile patwas. A section of the Kotharis Patwa Haveli offers visitors a chance to shop for authentic Rajasthani textiles and handicrafts, from the trading of which the erstwhile patwas made a fortune. Kotharis Patwa Haveli is widely considered the Taj Mahal of Jailsalmer. A visit to Jaisalmer is incomplete without seeing the intricately ornate Kotharis Patwa Haveli.
