Salim Ji ki Haveli is located at the heart of the Jaisalmer city, near the Jaisalmer railway station. This 300 years old Haveli is named after its owner Salim Singh Mahto and was built on the remains of an older haveli, built in the late 17th century. Salim Singh Mahto was the then prime minister of the princely state with Jaisalmer as its capital. Presently a part of the Haveli is still occupied by the descendent of Salim Singh Mahto. The haveli is situated beside the hills near the Jaisalmer Fort and has a distinct architecture.
The haveli has a distinct architecture. The roof has been constructed in the form of Peacock. The haveli is situated beside the hills near the Jaisalmer Fort. People claim that Salim Singh made two additional floors in order to make it as high as the fort but the Maharaja did not take this attempt in good spirit. He ordered the extra floors to be torn down. Nevertheless we do not find enough evidence to corroborate the story.
The architecture of this haveli is unique as compared to the other havelis. This mansion was not created with the help of cements and mortar- the stones are connected with strong iron rods. The architecture of this mansion is inspired by dancing peacock. The mansion has five storeys and every structure is carefully built and carved. It is narrow for the first floors, and then the top storey spreads out into a mass of carving, with graceful arched balconies surmounted by pale-blue cupolas. The beautifully arched roof has superb carved brackets in the form of peacocks. The haveli consists of as many as 38 balconies and they all have distinct designs.
The entrance of the mansion is guarded by two huge elephants carved from stone. This haveli is also called as Jahaz Mahal, as the front facet resembles a ship stern. The walls and balconies are all covered with imperial paintings. The carved windows and grandly designed halls and rooms add to the charm of the haveli. The stone screens and the projecting windows keep the haveli cool even during the scorching summer heat. The mansion is a perfect example of the excellent craftsmanship of the people of that period.
