This 18th century haveli, built of red sandstone, adds to the beauty of the city as it rests on the golden desert. The gorgeous haveli has a very distinct shape where it’s narrow at the bottom and then top storey spread out into massive gorgeous carvings and balconies surrounded with pale blue cupolas. Salim Singh Ki Haveli, having 38 balconies, is said to have been inspired from the dancing pose of a peacock, with the main roof in a shade of blue & the main stem of the building arched like a giant ship. For its unique shape & numerous balconies, the locals also call it the ‘Jahazmahal’. Its entrance, like most havelis in Rajasthan, has elaborate elephants guarding it. The two elephants guarding the entrance indicate the high rank of the master of the place. The interior seems much more modest, except for the top floor and the dance hall decorated with small mirrors. The beauty of the haveli lies in stone carvings, splendid murals and finely sculpted doors & windows. The designs of and carvings on the doors speak a lot about refined craftsmanship. The murals on walls and roof narrate stories of their own. There is a beautiful painting inside of a man wearing a black turban. The painting is a reflection of the Mughal style. Another aspect of its unique architecture is that the stones are connected with strong iron rods, while most havelis are created with cement & mortar. Beautifully designed Moti Mahal, inside the haveli, is the place where dances were performed to entertain the royal gentry.
Visiting this haveli gives a taste of Salim Singh himself. There is also a little place inside, where Salim Singh hid all his secrets. A knowledgeable guide leads one to show this little gem. Although, over the years Salim Singh’s growing ambitions brought him down and was later murdered. But, he did leave a piece of art behind for generations to come. Like most forts, palaces and havelis from the bygone era, Salim Singh Ki Haveli too has a tale linked with it. It is said that Salim Singh made the building of the same height as the royal home, which wasn’t very pleasing to the king. On king’s order, the two floors were demolished and now the mansion stands tall with five storeys in all. Located right below a hill, build amidst calmness and serenity, the haveli stands tall and is vibrant and graceful in its own beautiful way. From the balconies, enjoy a beautiful view of the bazaar and the fortress. It’s better to go there early in the morning to enjoy the beautiful light and the sun illuminating the ramparts. And to get a view from above and appreciate as a whole the very special shape of the building, climb onto the terrace of Salim Singh Ki Haveli.