Patwon Ki Haveli

Jaisalmer grew rich on the desert trade routes, and its wealthy merchants poured their fortunes into extraordinary mansions. The finest of them all is Patwon Ki Haveli — actually a cluster of five interconnected havelis built in the early 19th century, and the most elaborate in the city.

Every surface of the golden sandstone façade is carved into lace-like screens (jharokhas), balconies and arches of astonishing delicacy. Inside, some sections are preserved as museums, revealing the opulent lifestyle of the trading families who built them.

• ›The intricately carved five-storey façade.
• ›The preserved interiors and their period furnishings.
• ›The rooftop views over the old city and fort.

The lanes here are narrow — the façade is best appreciated from the small square in front. Nearby Nathmal Ji and Salim Singh havelis are also worth a look.