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PALACES AND HAVELIS OF RAJASTHAN

October 17, 2024

Havelis of Jaisalmer

  • Patwon Ki Haveli: This is a complex of five havelis built by Guman Chand Bafna and is among the most famous in Jaisalmer.
  • Salim Singh Ki Haveli: Known for its unique architecture with a peacock-shaped roof, it is one of Jaisalmer’s most famous mansions.
  • Nathmal Ki Haveli: A set of two havelis constructed by two architect brothers, Hathi and Lalu. The two sides of the haveli are similar but not identical, showcasing the individuality of each brother.
  • Sarvottam Vilas Palace
  • Jawahar Vilas Palace: Reflects royal grandeur and is a significant structure in Jaisalmer.

Havelis and Palaces of JodhpuR

  • Bade Mian Ki Haveli: A prominent heritage haveli in Jodhpur, known for its intricate architecture.
  • Pokhran Haveli: Another well-known haveli showcasing Jodhpur’s architectural style.
  • Ajit Bhawan Palace: Renowned as Rajasthan’s first heritage hotel, providing a luxurious experience to visitors.
  • Umaid Bhawan Palace: Constructed as a famine relief project, it is the world’s largest residential palace. It combines Art Deco and Rajasthani architectural styles and serves as a luxury hotel and a museum.
  • Rai Ka Bagh Palace: Built by Jaswant De, queen of Jaswant Singh. This palace is historically significant as Swami Dayanand Saraswati delivered sermons to Jaswant Singh here. It is also where Dayanand Saraswati was poisoned by Nanhi Jaan, a favorite of Jaswant Singh.
  • Kambha Palace: Built by Ajit Singh and known for its architectural beauty.
  • Bijolai Palace: Located on the outskirts of Jodhpur, known for its serene surroundings.
  • Phool Mahal: Known for its ornate carvings, this palace was constructed by Abhay Singh and is located within the Mehrangarh Fort.

Palaces of Kota

  • Hawa Mahal: Built by Ram Singh, this palace is noted for its beautiful architecture and intricate latticework.
  • Jagmandir: Situated on an island in Kishore Sagar Lake, this palace offers scenic beauty and architectural splendor.
  • Gulab Mahal: Known for its grandeur and heritage.
  • Abheda Mahal: Another significant palace near Kishore Sagar.
  • Abli Meeni’s Palace: Reflects the royal lifestyle and architecture of Kota.

Palaces and Havelis of Bikaner

  • Lalgarh Palace: Built during the reign of Maharaja Ganga Singh, this palace showcases a blend of Mughal, Rajput, and European architectural styles.
  • Gajner Palace: A grand palace situated near Gajner Lake, it served as a hunting resort for the Bikaner royalty.
  • Rampuria Haveli: Known for its stunning red sandstone façade and intricate carvings, it’s often referred to as the pride of Bikaner.
  • Bacchawat Haveli: Another historic haveli of Bikaner.
  • Adh Mundha Haveli: Famous for its distinctive architecture.
  • Mehta Haveli: Reflects the artistic styles prevalent in Bikaner.
  • Architectural Influence: The havelis of Bikaner are noted for Mughal, European, and Kishangarh-style paintings. The designs often feature geometric patterns and blossoming leaves motifs.

Palaces of Dungarpur

  • Juna Mahal: A seven-story structure with beautiful frescoes and intricate mirror work, it serves as a testament to the architectural style of Dungarpur.

Palaces of Udaipur

  • Built by Karna Singh: Various palaces and structures in Udaipur were initiated by Karna Singh.
  • Karna Vilas & Dilkhush Palace: These palaces reflect the opulence and royal architecture of Udaipur.
  • Famous Jagmandir: An island palace in Lake Pichola, Jagmandir is known for its beautiful surroundings and historical significance.
  • Jagat Niwas Mahal: Constructed by Jagat Singh, this palace offers stunning views of Lake Pichola and is a significant part of Udaipur’s heritage.
  • Bagore Ki Haveli: Located on the banks of Lake Pichola, it serves as the office of the Western Region Cultural Center.
    • Cultural Patronage: The haveli promotes the cultural arts of West Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Daman, and Diu.
    • World’s Longest Turban: The haveli houses the world’s longest turban, showcasing Rajasthan’s traditional attire.

Tonk Havelis

  • Sunehri Kothi: Known for its golden leaf work and intricate decorations, this mansion is one of the architectural highlights of Tonk.
  • Mubarak Mahal: A beautiful structure that reflects the unique blend of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles.

Palaces of Jaipur

  • Pyare Mian Ki Haveli: A significant haveli known for its unique architecture.
  • Salim Manzil Haveli: Another notable mansion in Jaipur with historical importance.
  • Padmahal, Hawa Mahal, Samod Palace:
    • Hawa Mahal is especially famous, known as the Palace of Winds for its elaborate façade with 953 small windows or jharokhas.
    • Samod Palace offers a royal experience with its grandeur and intricate frescoes.
  • Nayla Fort: Former US President Bill Clinton stayed here, highlighting its historical and architectural importance.

Palaces of Alwar

  • Vinay Vilas Palace / City Palace: A blend of Mughal and Rajput styles, this palace is a key landmark in Alwar.
  • Phool Bagh Palace, Hawa Bungalow, Tijara Fort Palace: Known for their scenic locations and heritage architecture.
  • Kasaroli Palace: Another significant heritage property in Alwar.

Havelis of Shekhawati

  • Known for Murals: The havelis in Shekhawati are famous for their intricate frescoes and paintings depicting mythological themes, daily life, and local legends.
  • Notable Havelis:
    • Mahansar & Jhunjhunu – Sona Chandi ki Haveli: Renowned for their gold and silver leaf work.
    • Tolaramji ka Kamra: Known for its detailed craftsmanship.
    • Nawalgarh & Jhunjhunu – Haveli of Bhagats: Reflects the rich heritage of the Shekhawati region.
    • Isardas Modi’s Haveli (Jhunjhunu): A prime example of Shekhawati’s architectural excellence.
    • Tibedwale Ki Haveli: Another notable mansion in the region.
    • Khetri Mahal: Known as the ‘Shekhawati Hawa Mahal’, it is famous for its unique open-arch architecture.
    • Shrimadhpur – Pansari Haveli: Features intricate frescoes.
    • Churu – Mantriyo Ki Haveli: Known for its grandeur and murals.
    • Surana Haveli: Known for its artistic design.
    • Malji Ka Kamra: A heritage property reflecting the Shekhawati architectural style.

Palaces of Jhalawar

  • Kasth Prasad: Built by Rajendra Singh, the king of Jhalawar, it showcases Rajput architecture with a unique style.

Deeg (Bharatpur)

  • Called the ‘City of the Jal Mahals’: Known for its water palaces and beautiful gardens.
  • Gopal Mahal: A prominent palace that overlooks the tranquil waters of Deeg.
  • Sawan Bhadon Mahal: Known for its intricate design and alignment with the seasonal rains, adding to Deeg’s charm.

These palaces and havelis are not only architectural marvels but also hold significant historical importance, offering insights into the region’s royal past and cultural richness. They serve as a testament to Rajasthan’s tradition of patronage towards art, architecture, and cultural heritage.

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