Nathmal Haveli Jaisalmer
Two architect brothers built it in the 19th century. Interestingly, while one concentrated on the right, the other concentrated on the left and the result is a symphony epitomizing the side by side symmetry during construction. Paintings in miniature style monopolise the walls in the interior. Mighty tuskers carved out of yellow sandstone stand guard to the haveli. The beautiful havelis which were built by wealthy merchants of Jaisalmer are yet another interesting aspect of the desert city. This Nathmal Ji ki haveli was commissioned to serve as the residence of Diwan Mohata Nathmal, the then Prime Minister of Jaisalmer. Maharawal Beri Sal commissioned the construction of this Haveli. The architects of this haveli were Hathi and Lulu who happened to be brothers. There is a very interesting story regarding its construction. It is said that the two brothers started building different facets of haveli simultaneously. In those days there were no such instruments, which could keep a track on continuity and thus when this building came up finally it had irregular shape.

Nathmalji Ki Haveli in Jaisalmer is splendor among the havelis in Jaisalmer. A major among the tourist attractions in Jaisalmer, the Haveli was the house of Mohta Nathmal, the then prime minister (1885) at the Jaisalmer royal court. Conceived by two Muslim engineers, Lulu and Hathi, it is an epitome of Rajput skills. Nathmalji Ki Haveli in Jaisalmer is foremost among the places of tourist interest in Jaisalmer. A visit to Jaisalmer and the haveli is sure to overwhelm you with the stone-carved screen windows, exquisitely executed murals, jewel like balconies and a rich architectural splendor. Two full-scale yellow sandstone elephants receive you at the access of Nathmalji Ki Haveli. Nathmalji Ki Haveli in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan exhibits perfect architectural luxury on your Visit to Jaisalmer. The designers exhibited unwavering tenacity and dexterity in executing the massive haveli. Though built on one building plan and the architectural brilliance, the two wings were built differently. However, the two wings seem to have faultless harmony.

Barring that, this haveli is still considered the best in Jaisalmer in terms of grandeur. There are other minute details worth appreciation. For example there are two Elephants made of yellow stone. These life-size replicas have been put in front of the main entrance so that it looks as if they are guarding the Haveli. Other than these, there are pictures engraved on pillars and walls. These consist of Horses, Cattle, and depiction of Flora among other things. But the most interesting aspect of this haveli is the drawing of modern amenities such as cars, fans etc. It is said and believed that the Architect brothers dint see these things ever in their life and engraved it with mere help of their descriptions given by people who had seen it.

Thus the architecture present in this haveli is quite different from the one popular in other parts of Jaisalmer. The workmanship of Jaisalmer havelis is an amalgam of both Rajput architecture as well as Islamic art that was imported via the traders' caravan through the desert.

The rich architectural imagination of the two brothers is reflected in the various paintings of modern ceiling fans and cars on the walls of Nathmalji-ki-Haveli. An architectural marvel of the bygone era, Nathmalji-ki-Haveli presents a harmonious blend of indigenous architectural styles of the Rajputs and Muslims. Amidst the picturesque landscape of Jaisalmer, the giant architectural monument of Nathmalji-ki-Haveli stands tall with it’s over imposing architectural structure. The construction of the splendid monument added to the old glory and grandeur of Jaisalmer. Nathmalji-ki-Haveli draws several tourists from far and wide who are absolutely awed by the marvelous creation of the grand edifice of the structure. Nathmalji-ki-Haveli represents the enriched artistic skills and creative caliber of the local craftsmen of the ancient times who could give shape to the excellent architectural imagination of the two brothers of Jaislamer.