havelis

Havelis are traditional mansions or townhouse residences in the Indian subcontinent, particularly in Rajasthan and Gujarat. They are characterized by an enclosed central courtyard, multi-story construction, and elaborate decorative exteriors and interiors.

Architectural features often include jharokhas (stone or wooden overhanging balconies), jaalis (stone lattice screens), ornate carved woodwork on doors and windows, and plaster or frescoed walls. Buildings are frequently faced with sandstone or lime plaster and arranged around a courtyard with living quarters, storerooms, and shopfronts on the ground level, reflecting both domestic and commercial functions.

Historically, havelis were built by wealthy merchants, nobles, or aristocrats during the medieval and early modern periods, roughly from the 17th to 19th centuries. They served as private residences as well as business centers and social venues, and their design often signified status through scale and decoration. While concentrated in North India, especially Rajasthan, similar courtyard houses occur in Gujarat and other parts of the region.

Many havelis are now preserved as cultural heritage, with some restored as heritage hotels or museums. Notable examples include the painted havelis of Mandawa in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, and the ornate sandstone havelis of Jaisalmer. In urban centers such as Ahmedabad, older merchant houses also illustrate haveli architecture.