Timeless Elegance: Explore 10 Grand Havelis of India

Imagine the grandeur of living in spacious mansions and soaking in the feeling of pure royalty. That’s exactly how royal families lived and still live in India. What makes the living unique is the construction of their exquisite havelis. Havelis in India is a definition of the traditional styles, carvings and cultural significance.

As you go on the journey of exploring the elegant havelis of India, you can walk through their lifestyle, outfits and practices. The experience is indeed like immersing yourself in the richness of fine artistry. Moreover, travelling has become super easy with the availability of Treebo hotels across India. Check out the 10 best havelis of India for witnessing the opulent past.

10 Glorious Havelis in India are – 

1. Kamala Morarka Haveli, Nawalgarh

Nawalgarh is a famous town in Rajasthan known for its vibrant lanes that are made up of grand havelis. Kamala Morarka Haveli is one of the prominent places exuding vibes of pure royalty and heritage. This haveli is adorned by intricately carved designs depicting scenes from mythological stories. As you enter this place, a sense of luxury can be felt!

Right from the spacious courtyards where families gathered for occasions to the jharokhas (windows) used by women, everything simply takes you back in history. Nestled in the Shekhawati region, the stunning frescos and pillars are a fusion of Mughal and Rajasthani architectural styles. Make sure to click stunning pictures with a historical backdrop.

Location: Naya Bazar Nawalgarh, Nawalgarh, Rajasthan 333042

2. Patwon ki Haveli, Jaisalmer

Oh, the stunning courtyards, marvellous rooms and intricate paintings, that’s exactly the scene at Patwon ki Haveli. Located in Jaisalmer, it is one of the most luxurious havelis in India to witness the past lifestyle of the royal families here. What’s interesting? It is believed that five storeys were built for the five brothers.

It is not just the haveli you need to explore but so much more beyond that. A part of the haveli is converted into a museum where you can browse through the age-old utensils, outfits and the love for perfumes. The Rajasthani aspect is brightly covered with shiny colours that to date, take you back to the world of amazing artistry.

Location: No. 3129, opposite Choora Paada, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan 345001

The best time to visit Jaisalmer for the golden skies and desert vibes

3. Bagore ki Haveli, Udaipur

Havelis in India are all about ancient tales. One such is Bagore ki Haveli in Udaipur which exudes vibes of finesse in craftsmanship and artistry. Built by Amar Chand Badwa, this haveli was once used as a residence for families and then by the government. With efforts in its restoration, you can now witness the Rajasthan charm here.

Mesmerising glass sculptures, artistically painted walls, and spacious rooms show you the lifestyle of people in the early times. It is one of the havelis that is converted into a museum for attracting tourists and locals alike. A well-maintained museum allows you to uncover the tools, outfits, everyday life and special events of the Mewars. What’s interesting? The haveli organises Dharohar Dance Show every evening to showcase the essence of Udaipur.

Location: Haveli, opp. Gangaur Ghat Near Hotel, Old City, Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001

4. Rampuria ki Haveli, Bikaner

Havelis of Rampuria are a group of many havelis built in a lane for the residents back then. You cannot enter the buildings of wonder however, exploring them on foot is one of the best things to do here. It is the thoughtfulness put by rich merchants who combined royal designs and cultural heritage with building the mansions.

You get an opportunity to walk through the striking features with red-coloured bricks embracing the glorious past. What’s impressive? You can still see the ancient nameplates with the names of rich merchants here. Visit the place in the golden hour to get the best pictures of Havelis and you in the frame.

Location: Rampuria Havelis, Joshiwara, Old Bikaner, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001

Top 5 forts in Bikaner that you must absolutely visit

5. Chokhani Double Haveli, Mandawa

Be ready to witness the glorious past of Mandawa with the Chokhani Double Haveli. The name itself suggests the architectural wonder covered with colourful murals and paintings. It is one of the best havelis in Mandawa dating back to the British influence in Rajasthan.

As you enter the spacious courtyard, you can witness the intricate designs inspired by lord Krishna, peacocks, cars and floral frescoes. Right from the construction to elaborate windows, the architectural fusion is a mesmerizing wonder to the eyes. The mansion is a true testament to the cultural elegance of Mandawa.

Location: Ward No.-05, Opposite Chokhani Double Haveli, Mandawa, Rajasthan 333704

6. Nathmal ki Haveli, Jaisalmer

Stepping into Nathmal ki Haveli is like stepping into a world of luxury. It truly depicts how business-class people of Jaisalmer live their lives in huge mansions. This privately owned haveli is an epitome of glory as it is all about traditional Rajasthani architecture. Intricate carvings and the blend of virtuoso work reflect the beauty of craftsmanship.

Apart from the grand haveli and vibrant interiors, a little more is left for exploration. Nathmal ki haveli is again one of the havelis partially converted into a public museum. You can browse through the traditional outfits, utensils, furnishings and bedrooms of the royals here. So, check out hotels in Jaisalmer and enjoy your holidays to the fullest!

Location: Sadar Bazar, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan 345001

7 best things to do in Jaisalmer to make your trip even more exciting!

7. Salim Singh ki Haveli, Mandawa

Awe-striking features of this haveli make it a famous tourist attraction in Mandawa. Built by Salim Singh before Indian Independence, the architecture is a tribute to the craftsmanship of artisans. It has 38 carved balconies, each giving a surreal view of the town. As per the legend, Salim Singh was envious, and that’s how he wanted to build a taller haveli than the other residents.

In today’s time, this haveli stands strong, showcasing the grandeur and pride of Rajasthan. It is believed that the two storeys are connected by iron rods, not the regular cement used today. Guarded by exquisite elephant stone carvings, the haveli exudes an essence of art and heritage all around.

Location: Amar Sagar Pol, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan 345001

8. Bansidhar Bhagat Ji ki Haveli, Nawalgarh

Known as Bhagton ki Choti Haveli, this haveli in Nawalgarh is a magnificent structure in the Shekhawati region. Bansidhar Bhagat Ji ki Haveli is one of the famous havelis in India, depicting the true beauty of Indian craftsmanship. Whether you look at the pillars, elaborate arched doors or intricate paintings; everything is so exquisite here. The haveli proudly belongs to the Bhagats of Nawalgarh.

What’s interesting? The paintings here showcase the local lifestyle of people in Nawalgarh, local mythologies and tales of ancient India. The mansion has a huge courtyard where you can see the haveli from all directions. It is all vibrant and full of hues throughout the space as authorities put efforts into maintenance. So, get ready to feel like a royal in Bansidhar Bhagat Ji ki Haveli.

Location: Nawalgarh, Rajasthan 333042

9. Purani Haveli, Hyderabad

Hyderabad is best known for its intricate carvings and Islam influence with Nizams. Purani Haveli is one of the iconic havelis that has witnessed a change of rulers and residents. Purani haveli was later restored to showcase the combination of Indian and European interior influences. While the mansion has an Indian-style courtyard, the arches and verandahs are inspired by the European essence.

You get an opportunity to walk through the luxurious rooms of the haveli and decode the rich lifestyle of residents back then. Tiled walls, mosaic flooring, unique paintings and European touch all of this make it a worthy tourist attraction in the city. It also has Nizam’s Museum, where you can see the artefacts and important elements of the past. It is best to book hotels in Hyderabad for a comfortable stay.

Location: Horticultural Department and Museum, H.E.H., Nizam Colony, Redhills, Hyderabad, Telangana 500004

14 weekend destinations near Hyderabad – The ultimate guide

10. Anandilal Poddar Haveli, Nawalgarh

Nestled in the heart of Nawalgarh, Anandilal Poddar Haveli is a living display of intricate art and craft. This architectural marvel was thoughtfully designed, taking into account every nook and corner of the space. Being of the marvellous havelis, it was earlier used for tourists to showcase the authentic Rajasthani culture and traditions. It also has a museum with artefacts and utensils.

As per the legend, it is believed that Anandilal Poddar sent his wise men to the city of Mumbai because he wanted to design frescos replicating the local trains. You get to witness the magnificence of the Rajputana styles with murals and huge courtyards. Wali through the corridors to see the elaborate paintings of Lord Krishna, royal men and a lot more.

Location: Naya Bazar Nawalgarh, Nawalgarh, Rajasthan 333042

Exquisite havelis in India are filled with the aroma of traditional perfumes, fused with cultural practices and standing still as wonderful heritages of India! Explore the mystical mansions and unravel the secrets of history.