Salim Singh Ki Haveli Jaisalmer
A 19th-century sandstone marvel in Jaisalmer, famed for its unique peacock-shaped roof and numerous balconies, built without cement.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy the exterior before crowds
Salim Singh Ki Haveli Jaisalmer
Best Time
Enjoy the exterior before crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 19th-century sandstone marvel in Jaisalmer, famed for its unique peacock-shaped roof and numerous balconies, built without cement.
"Admire its unique architecture from the outside; the interior may not meet expectations."
Admire from Outside First
Many find the exterior more impressive and accessible than the interior. Save your money if entry is an issue! :camerawithflash:
Check Entry Availability
Access can be inconsistent. Be prepared for potential closure or limited access to upper floors. :informationdeskperson:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Peacock-Shaped Roof
Exterior
A distinctive architectural feature, this unique roof is a visual highlight of the haveli.
Intricate Balcony Carvings
Exterior
Admire the detailed stonework and numerous balconies that showcase Rajasthani craftsmanship.
Unique Sandstone Architecture
Exterior
Experience a marvel of construction built without cement, showcasing traditional building techniques.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Manage Expectations for Entry
Consider the Exterior View
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Admire from Outside First
Many find the exterior more impressive and accessible than the interior. Save your money if entry is an issue! :camerawithflash:
Check Entry Availability
Access can be inconsistent. Be prepared for potential closure or limited access to upper floors. :informationdeskperson:
Photography Fees Apply
There's a separate fee for taking photos inside, which some find steep given the interior condition. :moneybag:
Location is Central
Easily reachable by auto-rickshaw or on foot, located in the heart of Jaisalmer city. :round_pushpin:
Tips
from all over the internet
Admire from Outside First
Many find the exterior more impressive and accessible than the interior. Save your money if entry is an issue! :camerawithflash:
Check Entry Availability
Access can be inconsistent. Be prepared for potential closure or limited access to upper floors. :informationdeskperson:
Photography Fees Apply
There's a separate fee for taking photos inside, which some find steep given the interior condition. :moneybag:
Location is Central
Easily reachable by auto-rickshaw or on foot, located in the heart of Jaisalmer city. :round_pushpin:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Salim Singh Ki Haveli is noted for its striking exterior architecture, including a unique peacock-shaped roof and detailed balconies. However, many visitors express disappointment with the interior, describing it as dusty, neglected, and not worth the entry fee, with inconsistent access being a common issue.
"It's a marvel of architecture on sandstones. But the sad part is, you cannot enter inside the haveli although there is a board saying you can. Locals say someday it opens and someday it remains closed"
Rafid Amin
"Avoid This Place – Save Yourself from a Bad Experience
Jaisalmer is full of beauty and history, but visiting Salim Singh’s Haveli might be the only negative experience you have here.
Why would you even want to visit? The haveli is supposedly famous for its unique architecture—no cement construction—but now, there's visible cement work, ruining its original charm. In reality, it feels more like ruins than a heritage site. Just look at the pictures.
If you're feeling charitable, take the ticket and admire it from the outside. But do not go in, or you risk encountering the exceptionally rude guide. A review from two years ago already mentioned his attitude and unfortunately, nothing has changed—neither his behavior nor the neglected state of the place. Clearly, the owner isn't bothered.
Skipping this place isn’t about saving the ₹100 (also 20 for taking pictures) entry fee. It’s about keeping your Jaisalmer memories positive. Do yourself a favor and visit other, better-preserved sites instead."
Sachish Binha
"It is one of the popular haveli in Jaisalmer. It is located right in the center of town where it's impossible to reach by car. Auto Riksha or walking was the only option. it was built in 19th century by Salim Singh, then Prime Minister of Jaisalmer. It is an excellent piece of Rajasthani architecture. Intricate carvings on walls and balconies are worth seeing. It's better to take a guided tour to understand the rich history behind it. It's open from AM to 6 PM and entry fee is Rs.20 for Indians and 100 for foreigners."
Balkrishna Shroff
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Salim Singh Ki Haveli is centrally located in Jaisalmer city, making it easily accessible. Cars cannot reach the immediate vicinity, so your best options are to take an auto-rickshaw or walk if you are staying nearby. It's also close to Patwon Ki Haveli, so you can combine visits.
Yes, it's situated in the main city and is quite close to Patwon Ki Haveli, another prominent Jaisalmer landmark. This proximity makes it convenient for planning your sightseeing route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee is typically around ₹20 for Indian nationals and ₹100 for foreigners. There's an additional charge for photography, usually ₹20 for photos and ₹50 for videos.
Entry can be inconsistent. Some visitors report being able to enter, while others find it closed or only partially accessible. It's advisable to check locally or be prepared to admire the exterior.
The haveli is generally open from morning until 6 PM. However, due to inconsistent access, it's best to confirm the exact timings on the day of your visit.
Reviews are mixed. Some find the interior dusty and neglected, with little to see beyond the exterior architecture. Others suggest a guided tour can offer historical context, but many recommend enjoying the outside view. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, there is a separate fee for taking photos inside the haveli. This fee is typically ₹20 for still photography and ₹50 for video.
The most striking photographic opportunities are from the exterior, focusing on the unique peacock-shaped roof and the intricate carvings on the numerous balconies.
Opinions vary. Some find the interior dusty and uninspiring for photos, while others might find architectural details interesting. Many feel the exterior offers better photographic value. +1
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
It's known for its distinctive architecture, particularly the 'peacock-shaped' roof and numerous balconies, built without cement. It's considered the third most famous haveli in Jaisalmer.
Some visitors describe the interior as dusty, neglected, and with limited areas open for viewing, suggesting it feels more like ruins than a well-preserved heritage site. +1
Guides are available, and some visitors recommend taking a guided tour to understand the history. However, be aware that some reviewers have reported rude behavior from guides.
Built in the 19th century by Salim Singh, the Prime Minister of Jaisalmer, it's an example of Rajasthani architecture. Interestingly, Salim Singh is also associated with the historical event of the abandonment of Kuldhara village.
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Architectural Marvels and Reality
However, recent visitor experiences suggest a discrepancy between its reputation and its current state. Some reviewers describe the interior as neglected, dusty, and with limited accessible areas, leading to disappointment. There are also reports of visible cement work, which detracts from its original charm. This has led some to suggest that admiring the haveli from the outside might be a more satisfying experience than attempting to enter.
Despite these concerns, the intricate carvings on the walls and balconies remain a significant draw. For those interested in understanding the rich history, a guided tour is an option, though it's wise to be prepared for potential issues with guide conduct.
Navigating Entry and Fees
If entry is permitted, there are associated fees. The standard entry ticket is around ₹20 for Indian nationals and ₹100 for foreigners. Additionally, a separate fee is levied for photography, typically ₹20 for still cameras and ₹50 for video cameras.
Given the mixed reviews on interior access and condition, it's recommended to manage expectations. Be prepared for the possibility that you might only be able to appreciate the haveli's exterior beauty, which itself is a significant architectural achievement.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit