Tuesday, February 20, 2018

Jaisalmer Fort & Havelis

It was the 12th Feb 2018, we reached Jaisalmer. Hotel and vehicle were already booked.
Jaisalmer is known for Camel, Desert, Fort and Havelis. Without riding the camel in desert, Jaisalmer trip shall be undiscovered.

Golden City-
Jaisalmer known as the Golden city. The buildings, Havelis, Fort all are in golden color. And that is why, Jaisalmer is called Golden city. In Rajasthan, there is a royal tradition to keep their capital in specific color.

Haveli-
Haveli or hawali meaning 'partition' or 'private space' popularised under Mugal Empire and it was devoid of any architectural affiliation. But later, the word haveli came to be used as generic term for various style of regional mansion.

Again later on, the havelis were status symbol for the Marwaris their extended familie providing security and comfort in seclusion from the outside word.


The havelis in and around Jaisalmer Fort are Patwon Ki Haveli, Salim Singh Ki Haveli and Nathmal Ki Haveli desrve special mansion. These were the elaborate homes of Jaisalmer's rich merchants.

The ostentatious carving etched out in sand stone with infinite detail and then painstakingly pieced together in different patterns each more lavish than the next were commissioned to put on show the owner's status and wealth.

Around Jaisalmer they are typically carved from the yellow sandstone. They are often characterized by wall painting, frescoes, Jharokhas and archway.

The Haveli is dipped in an enchanting shades of gold and instantly draws your attention to the intricacy of its architecture. It is famous for its fine wall painting, beautiful Jharokhas(balconies) archways and gateway.

Patwon Ki Haveli-
This is a cluster of five Havelis. Started by Guman Chand Patwa, a wealthy Banker. It is said, this Havelis cluster took almost 55 years to be built and was completed by his son.

Jaisalmer Fort-
This Fort is located in the remote Thar desert. In the medieval times, Jaisalmer was very prosperous city due to its Trade route situation. Later on,  Rajput clan ruled this town with the support of local merchants.

 Jaisalmer Fort crowns the Trikuta Hill. Within the wall of Jaisalmer Fort, lays the old city. The steep cobbled pathway leading to the royal palace pass through four gates. The Fort was made invincible by pathway having sharp and twinstung turns.

 Jiasalmer Fort is a five story architectural monument embroidered with balconies and windows, exhibiting fine craftsmanship. It has five inter-connected palaces. All the palaces have the amazing 'Jali' and 'Jharokha' work.

Outside the Jaisalmer Fort, is the main market place. From the wall of the Fort, one can have a marvelous view of the old city and the adjoining desert.

No comments:

Post a Comment