Introduction
The Pol Havelis of Gujarat are more than just aristocratic mansions; they are living embodiments of the region’s craft, culture, and community life. Found mainly in the walled city of Ahmedabad and in towns such as Nadiad, Patan, and Sidhpur, these havelis showcase exquisite wood carvings, internal courtyards, frescoes, and symbolic motifs that reflect a blend of Hindu, Jain, and Islamic aesthetics.
Rooted in the unique pol system—tight-knit neighbourhoods with their own gateways, chowks, and communal spirit—these residences narrate stories of trade, social ties, and shared heritage. Many continue to be inhabited, while others have been restored as boutique heritage stays, museums, or cultural centres. For travelers, exploring these havelis offers a journey into Gujarat’s past, where art, architecture, and tradition converge.
Prominent Pol Havelis of Gujarat
Vithalbhai Haveli, Vaso
Built in 1872 in the village of Vaso, this four-storeyed haveli is celebrated for its intricate wooden pillars, carved beams, and detailed window frames. Restored between 1999 and 2001, it has been declared a Monument of National Importance, reflecting its architectural and historic significance.
Nadiad Ni Haveli (Bhausaheb Desai Ni Haveli), Nadiad
Constructed around 1783, this sprawling haveli once contained 249 rooms and served as the residence of Bhausaheb Desai, a powerful Diwan. It blends Hindu and colonial elements and is associated with great figures such as Swami Vivekananda and Mahatma Gandhi, who visited the mansion during their journeys.
Dayabhai Mehta Haveli, Ahmedabad
Situated in Desai ni Pol, this mansion belonged to a Diwan and is renowned for its fine woodwork. Today, it functions as a museum, displaying artifacts from the pre-Independence era and offering visitors a glimpse into the social and political milieu of old Ahmedabad.
French Haveli, Dhal ni Pol, Ahmedabad
Over 150 years old, this haveli has been painstakingly restored and now operates as a boutique heritage stay. It is a shining example of how traditional pol havelis can be adapted for modern use while retaining their architectural and cultural essence.
Harkunvar Sethani Ni Haveli, Ahmedabad
Among the grandest of the Ahmedabad havelis, this mansion is noted for its expansive design and intricate architectural detailing. It stands as a reminder of the prosperity of merchant families and their patronage of the arts.
Dodhia Haveli, Ahmedabad
Another restored heritage property in the old city, Dodhia Haveli features an ornate carved façade and richly detailed interiors. It has been adapted into a boutique guest house, offering visitors a chance to live amidst historic craftsmanship.
Bohra Havelis of Sidhpur (Bohra Vad)
Sidhpur’s Bohra Vad is lined with stately mansions built by the Dawoodi Bohra community. These houses are distinguished by their richly decorated facades, stained glass windows, and European-influenced designs, presenting a unique departure from the traditional wooden havelis of Ahmedabad.
How Pol Havelis Are Being Used These Days
Today, many of Gujarat’s pol havelis have been given a new lease of life through careful restoration and adaptive reuse. Some have been transformed into boutique heritage hotels and homestays, where visitors can experience the charm of traditional wooden architecture, carved facades, and serene courtyards while enjoying modern amenities. Others have been repurposed as cultural centres, museums, art galleries, or venues for heritage walks, storytelling sessions, and community events that bring local history alive.
A few continue to serve as private residences, with families maintaining their ancestral homes and traditions, while some are partly rented out to sustain their upkeep. Civic bodies and heritage trusts have also stepped in to restore key havelis, ensuring that they remain vibrant parts of the city’s cultural fabric. This blending of living heritage with contemporary functions makes the havelis both preserved treasures and living spaces, integral to Gujarat’s urban identity.