Salim Singh Ki Haveli,Rajasthan

Salim Singh Ki Haveli, located within the Jaisalmer Fort complex in Rajasthan, is a notable example of traditional Rajasthani haveli architecture and urban domestic design. Built by Salim Singh, a powerful minister (karni) of the princely state, the building dates to the late 18th–early 19th century and reflects the wealth and aesthetic sensibilities of Jaisalmer's ruling elite. The haveli is valued for its distinctive silhouette, ornate stone carving, and its role in the living history of the fort's old city.

Historic Anecdotes

Local lore emphasizes the haveli's famous peacock-shaped roofline and the many intricately carved balconies and brackets, often said to have been designed to display the owner's status and artistic patronage. Stories recount how the haveli's dramatic facade and jharokhas were used to watch processions and civic life within the fort; recent conservation concerns and partial ruin have added a narrative of loss and restoration to its history.

Places to visit

  • Peacock-shaped roofline and distinctive silhouette
  • Intricately carved balconies (jharokhas) and corbels
  • Inner courtyard and traditional family rooms
  • Stone latticework (jali) and detailed façade ornamentation
  • Views over the lanes of Jaisalmer Fort and the surrounding Thar landscape

Unique Aspects

  • Unique roof profile that resembles a peacock fan
  • Extensive sandstone carving demonstrating local craftsmanship
  • Blend of functional domestic spaces with highly decorative exterior
  • Position inside the living fort — an architectural piece within a working heritage settlement

Things to do

  • Photography of the ornate facade and close-up details of stone carving
  • Guided or self-guided architectural walks inside Jaisalmer Fort
  • Exploring nearby havelis, temples and narrow lanes of the fort
  • Shopping in adjacent bazaars for textiles, jewelry and handicrafts
  • Observing daily life within the living fort and rooftop views at sunset

Festivals & Events

  • Jaisalmer Desert Festival (January) — city-wide celebrations nearby; great time to combine cultural events with sight-seeing
  • Local religious festivals celebrated within the fort (Diwali, Teej)
  • Occasional heritage walks and conservation awareness events hosted by local groups

Best Time to Visit

October to March — pleasant daytime temperatures, clear skies and comfortable nights for exploring the fort and surrounding desert

Weather Conditions

Hot and arid in summer (April–June), with temperatures often exceeding 40°C; monsoon months are brief and light (July–September); cool to chilly nights in winter (December–February).

Entry Fees & Permits

The haveli sits within Jaisalmer Fort. Access to the fort typically has a visitor entry fee (varies by nationality and official updates). The haveli itself has no widely-publicized separate ticketing but parts may be private or under conservation and access can be restricted. Typical visiting hours for the fort area are roughly 08:00–18:30, but check locally for current timings and any restrictions.

Accessibility

Located inside Jaisalmer Fort, reached on foot via narrow stepped lanes from the fort entrances. Nearest major transport hubs: Jaisalmer Railway Station (within the city) and Jaisalmer Airport (limited domestic flights). Nearest major hub for wider connections is Jodhpur (by road or rail). The fort terrain includes uneven stone steps and narrow alleys — not fully accessible for wheelchair users.

Recommended Duration

Plan 1–2 hours to view the haveli and nearby lanes as part of a broader fort visit; allow more time if combining with museums, shopping or a sunset rooftop visit.

Clothing & Gear Tips

Light, breathable clothing in daytime; a warm layer for winter evenings. Comfortable walking shoes for uneven stone lanes and steps, a hat and sunscreen for sun protection, and a camera with enough battery/memory for architectural photography.

Local Food & Souvenirs

Try regional Rajasthani dishes such as dal-bati-churma, ker sangri, and local sweets. Souvenirs include hand-embroidered textiles, camel leather goods, miniature paintings, and sandstone replicas or carvings.

TourGrids Logo

Your gateway to exceptional travel experiences. Explore, plan, and enjoy every journey effortlessly.

*Caution: Beware of Fake Promotions or Offers.
Please do not trust or engage with any emails, SMS, or web-links asking you to click a link and provide personal details. All official TourGrids communications are sent only from the domain @tourgrids.com or SMS from registered numbers. TourGrids is not responsible for any fraudulent or misleading communications received from unverified sources.