Introduction
Beyond its grand forts and palaces, Rajasthan is equally famous for its havelis – lavish mansions that served as residences for wealthy merchants, nobles, and aristocrats. Built mainly between the 18th and early 20th centuries, these havelis are masterpieces of intricate stonework, frescoes, jharokhas (overhanging balconies), courtyards, and ornate gateways.
Unlike the royal palaces, havelis reflected the prosperity of the merchant class, especially in trading towns along caravan routes such as Shekhawati, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, and Jaipur. The Shekhawati region, in particular, came to be known as the “Open-Air Art Gallery of Rajasthan” because of its richly painted havelis.
Today, many havelis are preserved as heritage sites, boutique hotels, and museums, giving visitors a chance to step back into the golden age of Rajasthan’s merchant aristocracy.
List of Major Havelis of Rajasthan
Shekhawati Region (Jhunjhunu, Sikar, Churu) – Open-Air Art Gallery of Rajasthan
- Mandawa Havelis (Jhunjhunu) – Famous for frescoes depicting mythological scenes, colonial encounters, and daily life.
- Goenka Havelis (Dundlod & Fatehpur) – Notable for their intricate murals and gateways.
- Podar Haveli (Nawalgarh) – Converted into a museum showcasing Shekhawati’s painted heritage.
- Muratani Haveli (Nawalgarh) – Features some of the best-preserved frescoes of the region.
- Aath Haveli Complex (Mahansar) – Group of eight ornately painted havelis.
- Sethani Ka Johara Havelis (Churu) – Notable for their grandeur and murals.
Jaisalmer – Golden Havelis of the Desert
- Patwon Ki Haveli – The largest and most famous haveli, consisting of five adjoining mansions built by a wealthy Jain merchant.
- Salim Singh Ki Haveli – Known for its unique peacock-shaped roof and arched balconies.
- Nathmal Ki Haveli – Built by two architect brothers; famous for its intricate sandstone carvings and miniature paintings.
- Haveli Shreenath Ji Ki – A smaller but elegant haveli with classic Jaisalmer design.
Bikaner
- Rampuria Havelis – A cluster of richly decorated red sandstone havelis, known as the “Pride of Bikaner.”
- Kothari Havelis – Heritage structures showcasing traditional merchant wealth.
Jaipur
- Samode Haveli – A 175-year-old haveli, now a luxury heritage hotel with Rajput-Mughal architecture.
- Kanota Haveli (Narain Niwas Palace area) – Residence of the Kanota royal family, now partially converted into a heritage hotel.
- Bissau Palace Haveli – Another Jaipur haveli converted into a heritage stay.
Udaipur
- Bagore Ki Haveli – On Lake Pichola’s waterfront; now a museum and cultural center hosting folk dance shows.
- Fateh Prakash Haveli – Smaller aristocratic haveli near the City Palace complex.
Other Notable Havelis of Rajasthan
- Mandawa Castle (Jhunjhunu) – Technically a fortified haveli, now a heritage hotel.
- Sardul Singh Havelis (Churu) – Well-known for their fresco art.
- Khetri Mahal (Jhunjhunu) – Often called the “Wind Palace of Jhunjhunu,” an airy haveli with lattice work.
- Shiv Niwas Haveli (Shekhawati) – Traditional haveli architecture preserved for visitors.
Closing Note
The havelis of Rajasthan are not just residences; they are living canvases showcasing the artistic, cultural, and economic history of the state. Each haveli tells a story of wealth, devotion, and the creative genius of local artisans. Together, they make Rajasthan an unparalleled destination for heritage enthusiasts and cultural travelers