Patwon Ki Haveli

Patwon Ki Haveli, known locally as Kothari's Patwa Haveli, is a group of five connected mansions in Jaisalmer and one of the most visited sights in the city. The name refers to the patwas, dealers in brocade. Guman Chand Patwa, a rich trader in gold, silver and gems, began the first house in 1805, and over the next fifty years further sections were added for each of his sons.

The complex is built of local yellow sandstone, and its five parts show how the Jaisalmer haveli developed during the 19th century, with each floor forming a separate home and the ground floor the largest. The walls are carved with scenes of daily life, plants, horses, cattle and mythical beasts. Many latticed jharokhas provided air in the desert heat and views of the street, and big arched gateways decorated with floral and geometric designs mark the entrance to each house.