Monuments of Rajasthan

Rajasthan has some of the world's finest examples of architecture that reflects itself in its architecture. There are distinct influences of Rajput architecture along with the considerable influences of the Mughal architecture and the marks of the aristocratic British Raj in its structure and sophistication. Some of the well-known monuments have been covered here:

City Palace, Jaipur: An amalgamation of traditional Rajasthani and Mughal architecture, City Palace complex has several palatial structures. Maharaja Jai Singh built the outer wall but there have been many additions since then. It sprawls over one-seventh of the area of the walled city and is in part of the palace still serves as a royal residence. The highlights of the palace are Chandra Mahal, Badal Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple and the City Palace Museum.

Havelis, Jaisalmer: The beautiful sandstone mansions of Jaisalmer's wealthy merchants are known as 'havelis'. Patwon ki Haveli is the most convoluted and outstanding of all the Jaisalmer havelis. It stands in a narrow lane and one of its apartments is painted with stunning murals. Salim Singh ki Haveli was built about 300 years ago and a part of this is still being used as residence. It was owned by Salim Singh, a former prime minister of the state of Jaisalmer and has a arched roof with superb carved brackets inn the form of peacocks. Nathmal ki Haveli of the late 19th century was also a prime minister's house and two brothers carved its left and right wings, which are similar in their looks. Its highlights are yellow sandstone elephants that stand majestically at its entrance and the intricately carved front door.