Nathmal Ki Haveli Jaisalmer, located in the city of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, India, is an architectural masterpiece that is steeped in history and represents the rich cultural heritage of the region. Built in the 19th century, Nathmal Ki Haveli is a prominent tourist attraction and a must-visit destination for those exploring Jaisalmer.
Commissioned by Diwan Mohata Nathmal, the then prime minister of Jaisalmer, Nathmal Ki Haveli was constructed by two brothers, Hathi Ram and Lalu Ram, who were renowned craftsmen. What makes this haveli unique is that the two brothers worked independently on their respective sides without any formal blueprints, resulting in slight variations in the architectural design.
Nathmal Ki Haveli showcases intricate Rajput architecture and exquisite craftsmanship. The haveli’s facade is adorned with ornate stone carvings, delicate jharokhas (balconies), and beautiful archways. The fine detailing and intricate patterns, including floral motifs, animals, and human figures, display the craftsmanship and artistic skills of the builders.
Inside Nathmal Ki Haveli, visitors are treated to the grandeur of the bygone era. The interiors are adorned with stunning murals, frescoes, and intricate artwork. The haveli’s courtyards, galleries, and rooms offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the erstwhile rulers of Jaisalmer Tourism.
History of Nathmal ki Haveli
Nathmal ki Haveli was built in 1885 and is named after the then Prime Minister of Jaisalmer- Mohata Nathmal, by his brothers Lulu and Hathi. It is believed that both the brothers started building the haveli at the same time but individually. They divided the area into two segments and started off. Since they did not have any means to keep a check on the symmetry and continuity, they ended up building an irregular unique structure. So, although both parts of the haveli are identical, they are not similar. Nevertheless, the haveli boasts of excellent craftsmanship and architecture and still continues to be one of the most admired structure in all of Jaisalmer Tour Packages.
Architecture of Nathmal ki Haveli
Boasting of a wonderful blend of the Islamic, Rajput and Rajasthani architectural styles, Nathmal Ki Haveli is one of the most splendid constructions of the 19th century. Built with beautiful yellow sandstones, the Haveli looks especially magnificent at sunrises and sunset when the entire edifice lights up in yellow rays of the sun. The exterior walls have elaborate carvings on them and the interiors have been adorned with rich paintings from the olden days.
The roof is help up by a number of sturdy pillars which have light paintings of fans and cars on them, suggesting the arrival of the modern era and the oncoming of technology. The pillars also have pictures of flowers, cattles and horses to allow a peek in the asic lifestyle of the people of the kingdom at that time.
In addition to that, two life sized replicas of majestic elephants have been carved out of yellow sandstone and have been placed at the entrance. These mighty elephants sculptures flanking the main gate are not only suggestive of guarding the Haveli but are also placed to welcome the guests visiting the monument. It is believed that the main chamber of the Nathmal Ki Haveli Jaisalmer has been carved out of rock and the first storey has been carved out of a solid rock boulder.
Besides, the haveli is replete with ‘jharokas’ i.e. balconies and spacious courtyards to suit the climate and weather of the desert land. All in all, the haveli is an architectural masterpiece and still continues to be one of the most visited places in Jaisalmer.
Best Time to Visit Nathmal ki Haveli
The best time to visit Nathmal Ki Haveli in Jaisalmer is during the winter months, from October to March. The weather during this period is pleasant and comfortable, making it ideal for exploring the city’s attractions.
Here’s a breakdown of the seasons in Jaisalmer:
Winter (October to March): This is the peak tourist season in Jaisalmer, including Nathmal Ki Haveli. The weather during these months is cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 7°C to 25°C (45°F to 77°F) during the day. It is the best time for sightseeing and outdoor activities as the weather is favorable.
Summer (April to June): Summers in Jaisalmer are scorching hot, with temperatures soaring up to 42°C (108°F) or higher. The months of May and June can be particularly harsh, with intense heat and dry weather. It is not recommended to visit Nathmal Ki Haveli during this time as the weather can be extremely uncomfortable for exploring the city.
Monsoon (July to September): Jaisalmer experiences very limited rainfall during the monsoon season. While the temperature cools down a bit, the city doesn’t receive heavy rainfall. However, occasional showers can occur, and the desert landscape becomes greener. This can be an off-season time to visit Nathmal Ki Haveli if you don’t mind the possibility of rain.
Considering the pleasant weather and comfortable temperatures, the winter season (October to March) is the best time to visit Nathmal Ki Haveli Jaisalmer. It allows you to fully enjoy exploring the haveli, appreciating the intricate architecture and artwork, without being affected by extreme heat.
How to Reach Nathmal ki Haveli
To reach Nathmal Ki Haveli in Jaisalmer, you can follow these transportation options:
By Air: The nearest airport to Jaisalmer is Jaisalmer Airport, which is located about 17 kilometers away from the city center. However, the airport has limited connectivity, and only a few flights operate from here. The major airports with better connectivity are Jodhpur Airport (around 285 kilometers away) and Jaipur International Airport (around 560 kilometers away). From these airports, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Jaisalmer, and then proceed to Nathmal Ki Haveli.
By Train: Jaisalmer is well-connected by rail, and Jaisalmer Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Nathmal Ki Haveli. Several trains connect Jaisalmer to major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Ahmedabad. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or cycle-rickshaw to reach Nathmal Ki Haveli, which is located in the heart of the city.
By Road: Jaisalmer has a good road network, and you can reach Nathmal Ki Haveli by bus or private vehicle. State-run buses by Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) and private buses operate between Jaisalmer and major cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, and Delhi. You can also choose to hire a taxi or drive in your private vehicle to reach Jaisalmer.
Once you reach Jaisalmer, Nathmal Ki Haveli Jaisalmer is located in the heart of the city, and it can be easily accessed by walking, hiring a local auto-rickshaw, or booking a taxi.
It is advisable to check the schedules and availability of transportation options in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to plan your journey accordingly.
