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Jaisalmer Fort under the night sky

Merchant mansion · Jaisalmer

Nathmal ki Haveli, Jaisalmer

A 19th-century mansion carved by two brothers who each built one half, so no two sides quite match.

LocationOld city, Jaisalmer
BuiltLate 19th century
Built forPrime minister Mohata Nathmal
Time needed30 minutes

The story

A little history.

Nathmal ki Haveli was built in the late 19th century as the residence of Mohata Nathmal, prime minister of Jaisalmer. The architects were two brothers, Hathi and Lulu, who each carved one side of the building.

Working separately, they created two halves that look alike at a glance but differ in their details. The result is one of the most charming buildings in the old city.

What to see

Don't miss.

  • The two facadesCompare the left and right halves to spot the differences.
  • Stone elephantsTwo life-size elephants carved from yellow sandstone guard the entrance.
  • Carved detailsLook for carvings of horses, cattle, flowers and even a steam engine and bicycle.
  • Painted interiorsParts of the haveli still have painted walls.

Our tip: The haveli is still lived in, so visit with respect. Combine it with Patwon ki Haveli on a morning walk.

Good to know

Questions travellers ask.

Why do the two halves of Nathmal ki Haveli look different?

Two brothers built it, each working on one half, so the details differ.

Is Nathmal ki Haveli open to visitors?

Parts of it are open. The family still lives in the haveli.

Who was Nathmal?

Mohata Nathmal was the prime minister of Jaisalmer, for whom the haveli was built.

More in Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer city guideJaisalmer Fort (Sonar Qila)Patwon ki HaveliDesert National ParkJaisalmer Desert Festival

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