Aath Havelis

Rajasthan


To the southwest of Bala Qila Fort is a group of six havelis (traditional, ornately decorated residences), known as the Aath Havelis, erected around 1900. Aath means 'eight', and they were so named because originally eight havelis were planned. The paintings are not technically as proficient as some others in this town, but they illustrate the transition in painting styles over the decades. Many of the murals are in very bad condition.

The front section depicts a steam locomotive and the back section features some monumental pictures of elephants, horses and camels. There are many eclectic, lively subjects to peruse, including barbers, trains and false windows.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Rajasthan attractions

1. Morarka Uattara Haveli

0.05 MILES

A haveli (traditional, ornately decorated residence) owned by the Morarka family, with some fine paintings, including miniatures above the entrance…

2. Geevrajka Haveli

0.07 MILES

Look for Hindu deities painted on the ceiling of the entrance vestibule.

3. Nansa Gate

0.09 MILES

One of the Old Town's many pols (gates).

4. Hira Lal Sarawgi Haveli

0.1 MILES

To the southwest of Bala Qila Fort, this haveli (traditional, ornately decorated residence) is famous for its different representations of cars. Other…

5. Bala Qila Fort

0.19 MILES

The fort of Bala Qila was founded in 1737, but today its modern additions largely obscure the original building, and it houses a fruit-and-vegetable…

6. Chhauchharia Haveli

0.21 MILES

A short distance south of Bala Qila Fort are a number of interesting buildings, including the Chhauchharia Haveli, behind Jangit Hospital, with paintings…

7. Baori Gate

0.27 MILES

One of the Old Town's many pols (gates).

8. Khedwal Bhavan

0.29 MILES

The still-inhabited Khedwal Bhavan features beautiful mirrorwork above the entrance to the inner courtyard, and fine blue tilework. A locomotive is…