ROYALTY…ah I see you’re craving to live like one…RIGHT?
Do you want to feel the charm of the king’s life? If so, there’s no secret that Rajasthan is the OG destination for this ultimate escape.
But, all the things come with a little twist, right?
So, all the plutophiles out there, skip the palace stay this time and head straight to the hidden havelis scattered across this royal state. Yes, you heard that right!
And trust me, living like a Rajasthani noble was nothing short of magical.
Let me roll out the royal carpet for you through these architectural marvels where time slows down, traditions come alive, and the essence of Rajasthan’s regal past surrounds you.
Spoiler alert: Indian Holiday made this experience so seamless that I felt like a noble myself!
What Exactly is a Haveli?
Before I start bragging about my escapades, let’s chit-chat about what a haveli truly looks like!
It’s more like a grand townhouse, often belonging to wealthy merchants or nobles, with intricate frescoes, latticed windows (called jharokhas), sprawling courtyards, and an undeniable aura of sophistication.
These Havelis are not serving as staycation options, but they were symbols of status, art, and culture. Stepping into one feels like stepping back in time.
My first encounter with a haveli was in Shekhawati, which is often referred to as the “open-air art gallery” of Rajasthan. I had read about it, but experiencing it in person? That’s a different ball game altogether.
Shekhawati
This is a storehouse of treasure, with each haveli being more stunning than the last one. As I move forward in my journey, Avinash, a local Indian Holiday guide, joined me.
And let me tell you, having someone like Avinash, who grew up among these frescoed walls and knew the stories of every painted deity and floral motifs changed my holistic approach towards architecture.
A Hidden Gem in Nawalgarh
While Mandawa and Fatehpur are popular in Shekhawati, Avinash made sure to take me to a lesser-known haveli in Nawalgarh. Its faded frescoes told stories of mythical beings and colonial influences. One mural depicted Radha Krishna, while another showed a train moving through a desert, which is definitely a nod to the British era.
I remember standing in the courtyard, sipping hot chai (because January mornings can be crisp here), and marveling at how every inch of the walls are filled color. The caretaker, an elderly man, shared how his family had preserved this haveli for generations.
Bundi
Bundi wasn’t on my original itinerary, but Indian Holiday insisted I visit. “You’ll thank us later,” they said. And they were so right.
This town feels like a storybook come, with its blue houses, stepwells, and, yeah of course, the havelis.
A cup of TEAAA with HISTORYYY!
One morning, I found myself on the terrace of a boutique haveli, admiring the majestic Garh Palace. The haveli owner, a soft-spoken man with great interest in history, joined me. Over a steaming cup of chai, he shared stories about Bundi’s royal past and how the havelis played a role in the town’s trade and culture.
Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer’s havelis are as golden as the desert sand they rise from. While most visitors flock to the fort, I found myself enchanted by the hidden havelis tucked away in narrow lanes.
Patwon ki Haveli
This haveli is a cluster of five, built by wealthy Jain merchants. The carvings on its facade are so intricate that you could stare at them for hours. Every room is a masterpiece from mirror work to miniature paintings.
The special element of the trip?
Sure Shot, it had to be Avinash. He didn’t just show me around but also shared stories about the merchants’ lavish lifestyles, the secret passageways they used, and the cultural significance of each room.
What’s It Like to Live Like a Noble?
Living in a haveli isn’t just about admiring its beauty but more of experiencing its essence. Here’s what my days looked like:
Waking Up to Royalty
Just imagine yourself waking up to the sound of peacocks, with sunlight streaming through stained glass windows.
Breakfast? A traditional Rajasthani thali served in a courtyard surrounded by intricate arches.
Cultural Insiders
One evening, I joined a block-printing workshop at the haveli. Under the guidance of a local artisan, I created my own fabric design. Another night, I watched a folk performance under the stars, organized exclusively for guests.
Tips for Exploring Rajasthan’s Havelis
Weather and Packing
January is chilly in the mornings and evenings, so pack layers. Don’t forget comfortable shoes for exploring and a camera to capture those intricate frescoes.
Events to Watch Out For
- Kite Festival in Jaipur: Watch the skies fill with colorful kites on Makar Sankranti.
- Camel Festival in Bikaner: A quirky celebration of camels, complete with races and dances.
How Indian Holiday Simplified My Trip
From arranging transport to booking the best possible haveli stays, Indian Holiday ensured my trip was hassle-free. They even helped me plan around local festivals and events to make the most of my visit.
# A Day in the Life of a Haveli Guest
Let me give you a glimpse of the authentic experience.
Morning Experience:
You wake up in a room adorned with frescoes, with the soft sound of temple bells in the background. After that, breakfast is served in the courtyard with fluffy puris, aloo sabzi, and a steaming cup of masala chai.
Afternoon Treat:
The day is spent exploring narrow lanes, discovering hidden havelis, and listening to locals share their stories.
Evening Relaxation:
As the sun sets, you find yourself on the rooftop, sipping on a glass of wine while watching the desert sky turn a fiery orange.
Dinner?
A royal feast under the stars, complete with a folk music performance.
How can you even give it a miss?
Why Indian Holiday is Your Best Bet for a Haveli Adventure
Planning a trip to Rajasthan’s havelis can be overwhelming. That’s where Indian Holiday comes in. Here’s why I’d recommend them:
- Customised Itineraries: They tailored my trip based on my interests, from hidden havelis to cultural experiences.
- Local Expertise: Their guides knew the best spots, stories, and hidden gems.
- Hassle-Free Travel: Everything was taken care of, from transport to accommodation.
Your Noble Adventure Awaits
Rajasthan’s hidden havelis aren’t just places to stay. They’re experiences that transport you to a different era. Whether it’s sipping chai in a frescoed courtyard, dancing to the rhythm of folk songs, or discovering the stories etched into the walls, living like a Rajasthani noble is an adventure.
So, what are you waiting for?
Let Indian Holiday craft your haveli experience and make your Rajasthan trip truly unforgettable.
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